1-800-LaserHair

Laser Hair Removal FAQ’s

o Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?
Yes, Laser Hair Removal, done correctly, is permanent. Our 1-800-LaserHair network providers provides the best laser hair removal techniques. Laser methodologies have been approved by the FDA to offer permanent hair reduction. The three main advantages to laser hair removal are comfort, speed and accuracy.

o Does it hurt?
In one pulse, the laser can remove all the hair on a patch of skin the size of a nickel. The pulse, lasting only thousandths of a second, is no more painful than tweezing hair or waxing.

o Is it safe? What are the risks?
Side effects occur infrequently and, as a rule, are temporary, however, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks involved. Laser, if done improperly or in the hands of untrained, inexperienced practicitioners, can have great risks. Hyper-pigmentation is a darkening of the skin, much like a localized, artificial tan. It could last anywhere from a few days to a few months. Hypo-pigmentation is just the opposite. It is a lightening or bleaching of the skin. If the laser energy is set too high, it could produce a burn or blistering. If it was intense enough, it could scar.

o Is it expensive?
The over-all benefits received from permanent hair removal often outweigh the immediate costs. For example, if you are currently paying to have wax treatments, you will find laser hair removal to be very affordable. Continuous use of temporary methods over a period of many years will cost you more in dollars, time and embarrassment.

o What areas of the body can be treated?
There are laser systems can remove hair from virtually all parts of the body including face, legs, arms, underarms and back. It can also be used in sensitive areas like the chest, nipples, pubic areas and bikini lines. Be sure to ask about the specific area when you inquire.

o What are the benefits of laser compared to alternative treatments?
Shaving, waxing and depilatory creams are all temporary methods which must be repeated on a frequent basis. Many of these methods require that you grow the hair out before treatment. Laser hair removal provides long-term relief, thus putting an end to these routines and leaving skin looking and feeling smoother and silkier. The most important result of all is the confidence that comes with looking your best with hair-free skin.

o Am I a good candidate for laser hair removal?
Both men and women seek the advantages of laser hair removal. If you are pregnant, laser hair removal is not suggested for you. Some medications also limit some patients from having laser hair removal. Some laser systems allow treatment of virtually all skin tones and our laser specialists are trained to ensure a safe setting for any skin type. The best results are obtained with dark hair. Very light, white or gray hair does not respond as well, but 1-800-LaserHair network providers often offer other options. The only way to be sure if you are a good candidate for laser hair removal is to see one of our laser specialists for a free, no-obligation consultation.

o What should I do to prepare?
This will be discussed thoroughly during your consultation. Shave the area you want to be treated. Surface hair interferes with the hair reduction process. There is no need to grow your hair out before your treatments. Please do not pluck, tweeze, wax or use hair removal creams at anytime during treatment. It is also important to stay out of the sun before treatment – this includes tanning beds and self tanning creams. We will not treat anyone with a sunburn or fresh tan. Do not use Retin-A products and advise us of any facial products or treatments that you used in the past week. Some medications will make you more photosensitive, so keep us up to date on any new or changed prescriptions, over the counter medications or herbal supplements that you have been taking.

o How many treatments will I need?
Multiple treatments are required for the removal of the hair. Most areas require 3 to 5 treatments, but the number of treatments you require for optimal long-term benefits depends on various factors such as your hair’s thickness, the area treated, and your hair’s growth cycle. We believe in spacing treatments out for successful treatment of all growth cycles.

o What happens after treatment?
Immediately following treatment, the may appear a bit red similar to a mild sunburn. This will only last a few hours. Over the next few days and weeks, the destroyed hairs will be shed from the skin and any surviving follicles will enter the active growth phase, ready to be treated at your next appointment.

o Are there any restrictions after treatment?
It is important to stay out of the sun before and after treatment – this includes tanning beds and self tanning creams. The use of sun block of SPF 30+ is recommended on any treatment areas exposed to the sun. You can return to normal activities right away. However, since some temporary redness may occur, you may want to plan your work or social engagements accordingly.