laser hair removal

laser hair removal

Frequently Asked Questions

Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair.

During laser hair removal, 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 hair follicles that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth.

In the majority of cases, laser hair treatment effectively results in permanent hair reduction. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well. Laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair, but it can be successfully used on all skin types. Laser hair treatment does not work on white, red, or blond hairs.

Treatment times depend on the area that is being treated. Usually each session takes anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes. Every person is different and would respond differently to treatments. Amount of treatments will depend on body area, hair type, hair color and skin tone. It takes 6-12 treatments on average to get desired results.
In most cases, laser hair removal causes minimal pain, especially when compared to other treatments like waxing. Many clients state that it feels like being snapped by a rubber band. The area being treated and your personal pain tolerance will also dictate the pain level associated with laser hair removal. Candela® GentleMax Pro® system utilizes patented Dynamic Cooling Device™ (DCD™), which sprays a mist of cryogen with every pulse to ensure the proper cooling of the treatment area, drastically reducing post-procedural discomfort.
NO. In order to avoid burns, the feedback of true sensation to the laser is required from the client.
Irritation, redness, and/or edema (swelling of the hair follicles) may occur after the treatment, all of which are normally temporary side effects after laser hair removal treatments. Please follow these recommendations:
  ● Avoid sun exposure to the area that was treated for a minimum of 2 weeks
  ● You may apply aloe, ointments, or Aquaphor® to soothe the irritated skin
  ● Avoid hot shower, hot tub, sauna, or heavy exercise 24 hours after the treatment.
     Do not scrub the area for 24 hours or until the irritation goes away
  ● Use SPF 50+ for 24-48 hours after the procedure if the area will be exposed to the sun

● Accutane®. Should wait 6 months to a year after stopping the drug
● Retinoids must be stopped 2 weeks prior
● History of keloids
● Photosensitive medications such as most antibiotics. Wait for 2 weeks after stopping the medication
● Anticoagulants (blood thinners). May cause bruising. Best if anticoagulants are stopped 1 week prior to the treatment. Must be consulted with a physician
● Compromised immune system. Must be consulted with a physician
● Pregnancy
● HSV 1&2 (Herpes Simplex Virus). Laser hair removal can be done but it may trigger an outbreak. Antiviral medication may be taken 3 days prior to treatment to prevent an outbreak
● History of Seizure Disorders/Epilepsy must be consulted with a physician
● Active infections, cold sores, or open lacerations in the area being treated
● Skin cancer
● Tattoo in the area being treated