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Laser Hair RemovalFAQsHow does a Laser remove hair?The laser emits a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin, to the hair follicle, where it is absorbed. Upon absorption, the laser energy is transformed into heat, which disables the follicle. Is It Safe?Our lasers are developed in conjunction with some of the world's leading authorities on the use of lasers for medical applications. The FDA has approved our lasers for safe and effective hair removal, and the treatments are non-invasive and can be customized to each person's individual skin type, making it very safe for almost everybody. By using the principle of Thermokinetic Selectivity™, the laser "parameters" are chosen to match the pulse width to the size and location of the hair follicle. The result is a safer, faster and more effective way to eliminate unwanted hair. How do I know if I'm a good candidate for laser hair removal?Generally speaking, white, brown, black, male, female – if you are concerned about unwanted dark hairs, you are probably a candidate for laser hair removal. Other factors can influence the treatment process, but these are generally best evaluated and discussed in person. Is laser hair removal permanent?The FDA has stated that lasers are effective for "permanent hair reduction". Laser hair removal effectively eliminates most of the hair with colour, and hair that is in an active growth phase. As mentioned above, light blonde hair and other hair that is nearly colourless will not be heated enough by the laser to destroy the follicle. Laserderm will schedule your appointments to target the hair follicles while they are in the active growth cycle. What body areas can be treated?Because of the safe cooling features of our lasers, just about any area on the body can be treated. This includes such sensitive areas as the lip, ears, nose, and groin area. The only areas that cannot be treated are those covered with a tattoo or permanent makeup, and the eyelid, due to sensitivity of the eyes to laser light. Is the treatment painful?Most patients describe the treatment as a series of slight pin pricks or rubber band snaps to the skin (slightly uncomfortable). Within about 30 minutes of treatment, the area may become pink or red from the cooling & heating; this may last from a few hours to one day. How long does it take?Each laser pulse treats about a half inch area, which can contain ten or more hairs. The amount of time needed depends on the size of the area to be treated. The lip usually takes less than one minute; other areas, such as the leg, may take significantly longer. How should I prepare for Hair Removal?It is important to leave the hair follicle intact for treatment as it absorbs the laser energy. Therefore, avoid waxing, plucking or bleaching your hair before treatments. You may shave the area to maintain a clean look, but do not shave the day of the appointment. (Shave 3 days before the treatment). Avoid tanning or tanning agents for six weeks prior to treatment. Tanning will increase the risk of temporary hyper or hypo-pigmentation (light or dark spots). We will often perform a test spot to determine if the skin has been tanned. Remember, to use a SPF 30 or even higher sun protection before and after laser treatments. Some medications or medical conditions may be contra-indications for laser hair removal. These circumstances will also be specifically discussed during your consultation. Please schedule a complimentary consultation at one of our clinics to receive a personal explanation of the procedure, answer any specific questions and to receive a free laser test spot. How many treatments will be necessary?To remove the hair, you will need at approx 6-8 treatments. This is because hair grows in cycles, and only the follicles that are in an active growth stage at the time of the treatment are eliminated. So your next appointment will be scheduled to coincide with the next active growth stage (about 6 weeks later). Many factors such as hormones, age, ethnicity, weight, metabolism, and medication all influence the body's hair growth. So, because each person's skin and hair are different, results may differ from person to person. What is the difference between a LASER and an IPL?A Laser has an exact wavelength. An IPL (Intense pulsed light) does not have an exact target (wavelength) it uses a broad band of light somewhere between x and y; it is therefore ‘hit and miss’ as it is not predictable.
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Laser Hair Removal