go back Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the best candidates for laser hair removal? How does the laser work?
Since light energy is absorbed by the pigment melanin, which then is transformed into heat energy to disable the follicle, those individuals with course dark hair, and light skin color respond most optimally. In those people with darker skin color (more melanin in the skin), the skin tends to compete with the hair for the light energy resulting in the potential for damage to the skin, not the follicle. That is why tanning should be avoided prior (and after) laser treatments.
Our second generation lasers can be used on people with fine hairs and darker skin colors. Lasers are effective at disabling hairs that are actively growing, and at any given time not all hairs are in an active growth phase. It therefore necessary to treat an area again at a later time to disable those hairs that were in a resting phase during initial treatment. We offer complimentary laser consultations so you can determine if laser hair removal is the right choice for you.
How does laser hair removal different from electrolysis, and is the treatment permanent?
The main difference between laser technology and electrolysis, is that lasers can treat multiple hair follicles at one time, no longer requiring the need to identify and probe each individual hair follicle. Laser hair removal is a relatively new technology. The FDA has cleared our lasers for permanent hair reduction based on clinical studies with patients. Most people need an average of 5-8 treatments. Hair grows in cycles and subsequent treatments are necessary to treat the follicles that are lying dormant below the surface of the skin. The first laser treatment stimulates dormant follicles into the next phase called anagen, this is the most effective stage in permanent hair reduction. Therefore, second laser treatment will be needed in 4-6 weeks from the original treatment. Individual results may vary.
How does GentleLASE® differ from other laser systems?
The GentleLASE® is an alexandrite laser, it is able to penetrate the hair follicle deeper than the first generation ruby laser thus allowing greater destruction of the follicle. The dynamic cooling spray device effectively allows greater amounts of energy to get into the follicle without damaging the skin, by simultaneously cooling the skin as the energy is being delivered.
Which areas can be treated?
Nearly any body or facial hair can be treated. Popular treatment areas include faces, necks, chests, backs, bikini areas, legs and underarms.
What preparation is needed before laser treatment?
Tanning should be avoided. Waxing, plucking, and bleaching should be avoided for at least several weeks prior to the treatment. It is best to freshly shave the area just prior to treatment.
What will I look like after the treatment?
In most instances, no perceptible skin changes are apparent. Rarely, mild redness and swelling may occur. If redness occurs, it usually fades within 24 hours. At the time of treatment many of the hairs are removed, and others are shed 1-2 weeks following treatment. In most instances you will be able to apply makeup immediately after treatment if you chose.
What should I avoid after treatment?
Sun exposure or tanning should be avoided. This can be accomplished by the use of sunscreens. The treated areas should be handled gently, avoiding the use of abrasive cleansers or topical acne preparations.
How much does laser hair removal cost?
We are committed to making laser hair removal services affordable. All consultations are complimentary and there is no commitment to schedule a laser service. We offer competitive prices for specific parts of the body and we also offer flexible financing options to meet all budgets. Feel free to email us or call with your specific needs and we will design a treatment plan that works best for you. Ask about our family and friend referral discount!
Are there any adverse effects? Are there individuals who cannot be treated?
FDA clearance for the safety and effectiveness of laser hair removal was achieved in 1997. In over 1,000 research treatments performed, only transient side effects have been noted. You will be given proper skin care instructions following your treatment. Some degree of redness or swelling may occur, but usually does not persist much beyond a few hours to a few days. Occasionally blisters can develop, and extremely rarely, scarring or infection can occur (to date we have not seen scarring or infection in any of our laser hair patients). The darker ones skin color is, the more one is at risk for changes in skin color, hypo or hyperpigmentation. Usually any changes in skin color will fade over time, but permanent discoloration is a very remote possibility (we have seen rare pigment changes in a few of our patients, but have never observed permanent pigmentary change in our patients). It is important to point out that any of these adverse events can be seen with electrolysis, or for that matter, waxing or shaving.
Laser treatments are most effective in patients that are not tanned. Therefore, tanned individuals should wait until their tan has faded before seeking treatment. Also, patients with extremely dark skin color, for example, a very dark Afro-American, may find treatment less effective, and run the risk of greater pigmentation changes. An area with an active infection such as cold sores, should not be treated until the infection has healed. For best treatment results it is best to avoid tanning both immediately before and following laser treatments. Self tanning cream should also be avoided prior to treatment.
How do I get started?
We encourage you to call to schedule a complimentary consultation. There is no obligation to schedule a laser service at the time of consultation. Please remember not to bleach, wax, or pluck the hairs prior to your visit, and avoid tanning immediately before and following your treatments. Shaving hair is preferred prior to laser treatment.
