Strip Manila’s new laser hair removal treatment is fast, painless, and effective
As someone who regularly shaves (or gets by wearing pants and sleeves), I’ve long wanted to try a solution that could eliminate or significantly delay hair regrowth with the least amount of hassle and pain. That’s why the idea of trying out Strip Manila’s Strip ICE treatment - promoted as their most comfortable semi-permanent hair removal method yet - was something I met with a mix of curiosity and excitement. I have never tried anything aside from shaving or waxing before so I honestly had no idea what to expect! When I got to Strip though, it didn’t take much to put me at ease. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, and they patiently answered all of my questions about the process.
In a nutshell, Strip ICE is less painful than the usual type of IPL treatments. It doesn’t feel as hot, thereby minimizing a lot of the discomfort. The machine has a cooling system that prevents superficial burns and dulls painful sensations, plus it works a lot faster so you can finish the treatment pretty quickly. A typical IPL procedure just for the lower leg area can take about 30 minutes but Strip ICE can get it done in 15! I was also told that I could expect to see results in just one session (hair growing back in weaker strands).
Before the actual machine even touched my skin, there was a lot of careful prep involved. Each client gets their own sealed hygiene kit containing gloves, wipes, and other one-time use tools. These giant foil packets are only opened in front of the client during the treatment session so you can be absolutely sure that everything they use on you is completely clean. It definitely brought me instant peace of mind to see how strict they were with hygiene!
Strip has a strict policy on using fresh towels and new accessories for every client
My therapist made sure that I was in a comfortable position before proceeding to wipe my legs down with disinfectant wipes. She powdered and carefully shaved the area to be treated before using a fresh wipe to remove the trimmings. And yes, if you’re getting a laser or IPL treatment, it’s better to come in unshaven as the therapist will need to inspect the level of hair growth so they know what areas to focus on.
The therapist used a new, disposable razor to shave off the hair prior to treatment
A generous amount of refrigerated ultrasound gel was squeezed onto my leg. It was super cold but probably also helped numb the area. Then the therapist started running the handpiece in small circular motions all over the front of my legs, which seriously didn’t feel like anything at all except for a mild, pleasant warmth. When the she got to my feet where I have some hair growth on my big toes, I felt a jolt and some heat in the area. It was kind of like being zapped with electricity but the sensation only lasted for a second. She was quick to assure me that this was normal and happens on particularly thick hair.
Afterwards, the ultrasound gel was scraped off my legs with a disposable spatula and wiped down a final time with a wet wipe to get the remaining residue off. The process was repeated on the other leg and on the backs of my legs. Ice Cream (Strip’s trademark soothing lotion) was slathered all over treated areas to prevent skin irritation.
A generous application of gel was applied all over my leg for the treatment
Except for the really cold ultrasound gel, the most uncomfortable part for me was the split-second zap on my big toes but that area is so small compared to all the area that was covered. As a first-timer, I can safely say that the experience was way gentler than waxing! The best part is that two weeks after the session, I’ve only noticed slight stubbly growth even though I’d usually be ready to break out the razor by now. There’s barely anything to shave so I’m just gonna leave it alone for the time being.
Now here's the catch: this hair removal session cost P16,250 for a half leg area. That's quite expensive compared to other laser salons, so it is really up to your discretion as Strip is a premium brand after all.
That being said, I am amazed by how much of a difference a single session can do to slow down hair regrowth. If you’re interested in getting rid of your hair for good, Strip is offering up to 60% off on the Strip ICE treatment until the end of the month, if you avail of six sessions. Visit the Strip Manila Facebook page for more details.
Have you ever tried laser or IPL hair removal treatments? What was your experience like?
