Laser Hair Removal FAQ

Below, you will find answers to a number of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). If you have a specific question not addressed here, contact one of our locations, or visit our Ask The Experts page to ask a question online.

How does laser hair removal work and why is it safe?

Lasers have been used for over a decade for a variety of medical cosmetic procedures including treatment of facial and leg veins, age spots and smoothing fine lines on the face. We utilize state-of-the-art technology to customize your treatment depending upon your skin type and hair density. Our laser hair removal systems emit a precise beam of pulsating light that passes through the skin to the hair follicle where the energy is absorbed by melanin (or pigment) that gives color to the hair shaft. The lasers’ energy is then absorbed by the pigment in the hair and transferred to the surrounding hair follicle.

What areas can be treated?

Laser hair removal can be performed on almost area of the body for men and women - from small areas such as your upper lip, underarms, bikini area, chin, neck, and face, to larger areas such as arms, chest, back, and legs.

Why is laser preferred for hair removal?

Most people are great candidates. Traditional hair removal techniques, such as shaving, plucking and waxing, provide only temporary relief. Until now, the only long-lasting hair removal solution has been by electrolysis - which can be time-consuming and is usually limited to small areas, because each hair is treated individually. Laser hair removal is non-invasive, and safely removes unwanted body hair without damaging the delicate pores and structures of the skin. Facial and bikini area sessions are usually completed in under 20 minutes; legs and larger areas can take longer.

One significant advantage of laser hair removal treatment is that it affects a large number of hair follicles at once resulting is a quicker more permanent results. As a general rule, several treatments will be required and you and can expect to see a 50% reduction in hair growth after just one treatment.

If you hate shaving, or are tired of putting up with painful waxing, tweezing or electrolysis, laser hair removal may be the best solution for you.

Will laser hair removal work for me?

The best results have been achieved on darker, coarse hair, but other factors may influence the treatment process, and are generally best evaluated and discussed in person. We offer a complimentary consultation.
Depending on the amount of hair and area treated, the procedure varies from patient to patient. Generally, the treatment will begin by trimming away the hair above the skin to be treated. Protective glasses will be provided to protect your eyes from the laser's bright light. Next, a cool gel (similar to an ultrasound gel) will be spread over the treatment area. The laser's handpiece will then be applied to the skin to deliver the pulses of light needed to begin disabling your unwanted hair.

What does the treatment include?

Depending on the amount of hair and area treated, the procedure varies from patient to patient. Generally, the treatment will include: Safety eyewear to protect the patient's eyes during the procedure from the laser light. A small handpiece will be used to deliver the laser light. Most experience little discomfort at the treatment site. The sensation and the degree of discomfort varies with each person. In some cases, topical anesthesia is an option. Your laser specialist will discuss this before laser treatment. Depending on the size or number of areas treated, the time will vary in length from minutes to hours. Patients can return to work or resume their normal activities immediately following treatment. The area may become slightly red and may last from a few minutes to several days depending on the area and skin sensitivity.

Are there any restrictions on my activity after treatment?

You can return to work or resume normal activities immediately following your procedure. However, since some redness may occur, you may want to plan your work or social engagements accordingly. This may last from a few minutes to several days depending on the area and skin sensitivity.

What precautions should be taken before and after treatment?

You MUST stop plucking or waxing hair for several weeks for laser to be optimally effective. We have a variety of lasers to safely treat all skin types and skin colors including dark & tanned skin. Our highly trained professionals educate you on your options and tailor a treatment program that best suits your personal needs. Together you and the laser specialist can decide if your expectations will be met and which treatment is the best option for you.

How many treatments will I need?

Hair grows in cycles. The laser is only effective on hair in its actively growing cycle. At any one time there will only be certain hairs in that growing phase. This means that consistent treatments at appropriate intervals are absolutely necessary for the best possible results. The number of treatments required depends upon your skin, hair coloring, coarseness of the hair and density per treated area. Multiple treatments may be required.

The laser hair removal system causes permanent reduction in the number of hairs growing in an area. Because hair grows in three phases, and each hair goes through these stages independently, it is almost impossible for one laser treatment to permanently reduce all hair in a given area. Clinical studies, which have followed patients for one year after completing two treatments, have shown that reduction in hair growth was stable for the duration of that time. While individual results may vary, patients typically find that it takes 3 to 6 treatments to get the desired results.

How does laser hair removal compare with other hair removal methods?

Shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams are all temporary methods which must be repeated on a frequent basis. Laser hair removal offers longer lasting results for your hair removal needs.

Is laser hair removal covered by insurance?

Most insurance companies do not offer reimbursement for cosmetic procedures.

To learn more about Laser Hair Removal Ask The Expert, Contact Us or Make an Appointment for a Free consultation.