Laser Hair Removal

The laser produces a beam of highly concentrated light. This light passes through the skin and targets dark pigment called melanin. The heat destroys the hair follicle resulting in permanent hair reduction. Hair that does grow back will be lighter and thinner in texture. Blonde, gray, or red hair cannot be destroyed by laser. Only 20% of the hair follicles are destroyed during any given laser hair removal session, which is why multiple treatments are required.

Most clients tolerate the procedure well. Some clients feel a slight burning or stinging sensation as the laser pulse is delivered. A topical anesthetic cream can be applied one hour prior to treatment on most areas of the skin. In addition, our laser systems have a powerful skin cooling device incorporated into the hand piece. Cold compresses or soothing gels can also be applied after treatment.

The number of treatments will vary since hair grows at different rates. The rate of growth can depend on age, weight, metabolism, hormones, ethnicity, medications, and other factors. Interestingly, not all hairs are growing at the same time. Hair is in one of three distinct phases of development which are anagen (active), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting). The laser only works on follicles in the active growth phase. On average it takes a series of 5 to 6 treatments spaced 6 to 12 weeks apart to guarantee permanent hair reduction.

You might notice redness and bumps for the first few hours after laser hair removal. To reduce any discomfort, ice can be applied to the treated area. A few days after your treatment, you will notice what appears to be new hair growth in the treated areas. This is actually the hair shedding from the dead follicle. The treated area will be smooth for about four to six weeks following the first laser hair removal session. After this timeframe, patients should notice the new cycle of hair growth, this is an indication that it is time for the next treatment.

Although the procedure is often considered to be permanent, laser treatment actually reduces the number of unwanted hair by 70-80%. However, remaining hair will be finer, thinner, and lighter in color. Over time, new hair growth can be triggered by hormone changes or other medical conditions. Your body will develop new hair follicles, resulting in new hair growth but, at a much lesser degree. We recommend you undergo maintenance treatments periodically, after the initial 6 treatments, to maximize the results.