Frequently Asked Questions for Hair Removal

How does the laser remove hair?

The laser emits a beam of light that is attracted to the pigment or melanin in the hair follicle that is in an active growing cycle. Pre-set pulse duration and energy setting are directed at and absorbed by the hair follicles. The laser seals the blood vessel, which is feeding the hair, closed. The hair appears to continue to grow but after a couple of weeks (2-4 weeks depending on the body area), the hair will fall out leaving the area relatively hair free until the beginning of the next growth cycle at which time you would return for your next treatment. At times a small area may be missed which will be obvious after the affected hair falls out. At this time I suggest that you return for a touch up to keep the hair all in the same cycle. These touch ups are done before the next cycle begins only and they are done at no charge.

What does the laser treatment feel like?

The treatment does have a slight prickly or stinging sensation. Most of our clients are able to tolerate the treatment without difficulty. However, since every person’s level of sensitivity is different and treatment areas may vary, a topical numbing cream may be used. My system uses forced cold area to cool the skin before during and after the laser scans the skin making the treatment much more comfortable than other treatments.

What happens to the skin after laser treatment?

Reddening of the skin is the usual reaction. The redness usually subsides within a few minutes to a few hours and returns to normal. Since the laser is not invasive in any way, no bandages are necessary. You are able to re-apply your make-up, return to work, and continue with your normal daily activities immediately following treatment. I do a free test spot for each person that comes in for a consultation as long as their medical history does not preclude it. I wait for three days after the test to check for any negative reaction to the laser. If there is no reaction then a treatment will be scheduled.

How many laser treatments will I need?

It has been our experience that everybody’s body is different. Most have a significant reduction after 5-6 treatments. However, women with Poly Cystic Ovary syndrome will need significantly more treatments as will anyone with hormonal issues. My policy is to charge for the first 5 treatments and any treatment after the 5th is charged at 10% of the treatment price. For example: you pay $120.00 for an individual treatment five times, the sixth treatment and all other treatments for that area will be treated at the 10% price of $12.00. It is important to follow your treatment schedule and not miss months in between treatments as you will miss a cycle. This cycle will not come back at exactly the same time leaving you with random hairs popping up at different intervals which will extend your treatment time and expense to get the desired results.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

The FDA has cleared laser hair removal regardless of the laser for “Permanent Hair Reduction” only. Based on my experience I believe that the hair treated will probably not re-grow. Each individual’s treatment response may be different because of their hair or skin type and that you have between 500 and 1000 follicles per square inch, of which many are dormant at the time of treatment. There is no way to know if and when they may start growing due to stress levels, certain medications and different hormone levels. IE: pregnancy, birth control pills menopause, stress etc.

What to expect after laser treatment:

After your initial treatment, you will see a slight reduction of the treated area. It will take 2-4 weeks for the treated hair to push its way to the surface and fall out. With each treatment, the hair in the active growing phase will be effectively treated. After the third treatment you should begin to see a significant reduction in the treated area.

What if I have gray, white, blonde, red or light fine hair?

Since the laser is attracted to the pigment in the hair follicle, this hair color may not have enough pigment to be successfully treated with the laser. If this applies to you, I will want to try a test spot to see if your hair responds to the laser. There is no charge for this test or for the consultation. If anyone tells you that they can get those types of hair you should ask for a test spot then wait for the 2-4 weeks (depending on the area). If the hair never falls out then it did not work and subsequent treatments will not work. Do not pay for the treatment up front without knowing if it is going to work for you. There are instances also of dark hair not responding so it is best to see if it works for you before paying for treatments.