How Laser Works

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

The latest advancements in hair removal using laser technology are truly exciting.  As a result, more people are candidates for laser hair removal and the procedure is providing even greater customer satisfaction.  We are here to guide you in selecting the best program for eliminating your unwanted hair as quickly and economically as possible. If you are a candidate for laser hair removal technology, you can be freed of unwanted hair at the speed of light.

The word laser  is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.  The wave length/radiation generated by laser hair removal equipment is converted to heat.  Consider, furthermore, that the skin contains cells known as melanocytes. Melanocytes produce and contain melanin. Melanin is what causes coloration of hair and the pigmentation of skin. Hair roots are surrounded by melanocytes. The laser hair removal device targets melanin, which absorbs the laser energy/heat. The heat from the effected melanin is transferred from the melanocytes to the adjacent cells of the hair follicle.   After several treatments, this thermal/heating process debilitates the follicles in the treated area.

Not everyone is a candidate for laser hair removal.  There are several factors involved in determining who should be treated. Those considered to be potential candidates for laser hair removal must undergo a spot test with the laser device to insure that there are, in fact, no negative indications for undergoing treatments. You must return to us about one week after the laser test is performed so that the results can be evaluated.

Also, for your protection, you must obtain a medical clearance for laser treatments from our supervising physician. He has hands-on experience and is well versed in the use of lasers for hair removal.

Before each laser session, the hair in the area to be treated must be clipped or shaved off, entirely. If hair is left above the surface of your skin, the full power of the laser energy would be dissipated in the process of vaporizing that excess hair. To maximize the results, the greatest amount of energy possible should reach and be absorbed within the melanocytes. You must also insure that the skin in the area(s) to be treated is clean and free of any type of cosmetic, cream or lotion, other than that which is being used to numb the area.

The sensation from the treatment is described by many as similar to being “snapped” by a rubber band. To increase patient comfort, the equipment’s cooling system provides a continuous flow of chilled air.

The laser hair removal equipment we use has 5 spot sizes for treating different size areas.  We can quickly and effectively treat an area as small as an eyebrow or as large as a back.  To give you an idea of just how quickly, upper lips can be done in one minute, both underarms in 3 – 5 minutes, and a bikini line can be treated in 10-15 minutes! On average, the process requires between 4-7 treatments.

Within 2-3 weeks after a treatment, hairs in the treated area(s) will surface and fall out.  Until they do, it might appear that those hairs are still growing. They are not!  Be patient, they will fall out. Deeper and darker hairs will take more time to fall out than finer and shallower hairs.  Until they are completely expelled, treated hair can be bleached, shaved or clipped, but do not try to pull them out.

If you are not a candidate for laser hair removal, afterall, consider that most people are candidates for electrolysis. We will be glad to discuss the options that electrolysis provides.

Our consultation(s) regarding your candidacy for laser hair removal and your treatment options are free. And once you have begun treatment, we encourage you to call or e-mail us immediately with any questions or concerns that may arise.