Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair reduction is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. During the procedure, a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages the tube-shaped sacs within the skin (hair follicles) that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth.

Is it painful?

While everyone’s pain tolerance is different, the majority of clients do not think it is painful. Our patients report that treatment with our lasers is much more comfortable than other lasers and far more comfortable than waxing. Our lasers are equipped with a DCD (Dynamic Cooling Device) that makes the treatment both comfortable and safer to the skin than other lasers. Because the lasers we use have a very large (18mm) spot size, treatments are very quick. Any discomfort one experiences are over very quickly.

How many sessions do I need?

The number of treatments necessary varies per individual, on average 5-8 treatments, although because of numerous variables, this medical treatment cannot be guaranteed. Multiple treatments performed at 4 to 10-week intervals are necessary in order to obtain the best result. Irregular treatment schedules and prolonged intervals between treatments may reduce the efficacy of the procedure. It is also most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair, but it can be successfully used on all skin types.

Is laser hair reduction permanent?

Laser hair reduction permanently reduces hair anywhere on the face or body where smooth skin is desired. Some hair follicles are stimulated only by changes in hormone levels. Laser hair reduction treatments do not prevent new hair growth in those follicles. Patients may experience hair regrowth from various hormone-related causes, such as pregnancy or hormone changes related to aging.

How do I prepare?

Prior to your first laser hair reduction appointment, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make sure that you are ready for your appointment. If you have any questions about any of our procedures, please contact us prior to your consultation or appointment.

Follow these guidelines unless your laser technician directs otherwise:

• Do not use any topical products that cause photosensitivity (e.g. hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, retinol, and benzoyl peroxide) in the treatment areas for three days before treatment. Use a gentle cleanser and lotion on treated areas.
• Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area, and do not use UV tanning beds at all for two weeks before treatment. Be sure to use a recommended broad-spectrum mineral sunblock with an SPF of 30 or above on a daily basis (rain or shine).
• Follow instructions regarding all oral prescription medications that we provided at your medical laser consultation. If you are taking any new or different medications, including antibiotics, contact us prior to your appointment. • Do not have Botox injections, dermal filler injections, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion in the treatment area for at least 14 days before the procedure.
• We ask that you are freshly showered or bathed with completely clean skin, without lotions, oils, creams, or fragrances of any kind before coming in.
• Any treatment areas should be shaved completely prior to treatment. Legs should be shaved around 24 hours prior to your appointment to avoid irritation.
• Do not wax, tweeze, epilate, or use chemical depilatories for two weeks before treatment, or at all in between laser treatments. Since the laser targets the root of the hair, it must be present for the treatment to be effective. Shaving is the only form of hair removal recommended during the course of your treatments.

After your laser hair reduction treatment?

It is normal to experience redness and swelling in the treatment area following laser hair reduction. This may persist for several days. The treated area may feel like a razor burn or sunburn for a few hours after treatment. Hair in the treated area will slowly shed, typically over the course of two weeks.

The patchiness of hair growth is normal and will dissipate towards the completion of your laser hair reduction treatment series. It is imperative that you avoid excessive heat in the treatment area, such as hot tubs, saunas or working out for 24 hours after the treatment.

Avoid sun exposure to the treatment area, and do not use UV tanning beds at all for two weeks after treatment. Use a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or above on a daily basis (rain or shine).

Do not use any topical products that cause photosensitivity (e.g. hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, retinols, and benzoyl peroxide) in the treatment areas for three days after treatment. Use a gentle cleanser and lotion on treated areas.

Follow instructions regarding all oral medications that we provided at your medical laser consultation.