Laser Hair Removal FAQ
1) Why laser treatment?
Though there are many ways to remove unwanted hair (such as shaving, waxing and plucking), lasers are the only permanent method of hair reduction. Also, a large area of the skin can be treated via laser at one time, making the procedure faster and even more cost-effective.
2) What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a procedure which removes hair from the body utilizing a long pulse laser. Laser hair removal lasers have been in use since 1997. The treatment is performed by a specially-trained laser specialist by pointing the laser device at shaved skin. Laser heat disables follicles from producing hair.
3) How does laser hair removal work?
The laser targets the darkness of the melanin pigment in the hair follicle. Since melanin is only produced in the growth phase of the hair, the laser must target the hair follicle during this cycle. At any given time, 20% of the hair in a particular area may be in a growth phase. Therefore, more than one treatment needs to be scheduled. With multiple treatments all hair follicles can be disabled.
4) How many treatments will be needed?
Hair grows in cycles. Since various hairs will enter their growth cycle at different times, about 6-8 treatments at intervals of 4 -6 weeks are necessary to disable most of the follicles in a given area.
5) What are the risks of hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a lunch time procedure. There is no recovery time. Patients can return to work or play immediately. We recommended use a sunblock for all exposed body parts. Laser treatments are very safe. Our lasers are FDA approved and use the best technology for delivering the safest treatment. All of our technicians are certified and experienced with providing treatments to fit your needs.
6) How old do you have to be for laser hair removal?
Young people that are not finished growing will develop new hair as they grow, and will require touch ups to maintain the results. We currently do not treat children under the age of 13. Older people usually have gray/white hair that will not respond to laser.
7) Is it painful?
Compared to waxing the treatment has very little discomfort. Everyone’s pain tolerance is different. Most of people don’t need any because of the cooling tip works with the light reducing the feeling. People have compared it to a rubber band snapping against the skin. If you do find it uncomfortable, we can prescribe a numbing cream for the skin.
8) Are the results permanent?
Results vary depending on skin and hair type. Studies have shown that many patients can achieve permanent hair reduction of up to 85-90% and remaining hair returns lighter and softer.
9) Does my hair need to be grown out before the treatment?
No. Actually we recommend that you shave the area to be treated. Waxing, bleaching, tweezing, or any other method that removes the hair must be discontinued at least a week prior to treatment.
10) How much does it cost?
Laser hair removal has a less overall cost than the alternative electrolysis, shaving or repeated waxing. We always offer free consultations, and cost will vary according to treatment plan, areas to be treated. Clients may pay per treatment, but we also offer package discounts and multiple area discounts. We also often run specials on the website.