LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Lasers work by producing pulsed light that is absorbed by the melanin, or colour, in a strand of hair. The laser heats the hair follicle destroying the hair at its root, without damaging any of the surrounding skin.

Laser hair removal treatment is best described as “the sensation of an elastic band ” being flicked against your skin. Pain thresholds can vary from person to person but generally the treatment is very well tolerated. As a rule of thumb if you have very thick hair you tend to experience more discomfort.

However, the majority of patients tolerate laser hair removal very well. The Zimmer cooling system which is used in conjunction with our lasers during each treatment session means that the treatment is very well tolerated.

The difference between lasers and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for the treatment of unwanted hairs is that laser is the gold standard for hair removal. (IPL is better suited to the treatment of pigmentation). At our laser clinic, our laser hair removal system or equipment is the Cynosure Elite laser device.

Everyone. Because we have two different devices for laser hair removal, this means that we can treat a variety of skin tones.

Laser hair removal is safe enough to be used on the face, back, underarms, bikini line, legs and arms.
The most common laser hair treatments are as follows:

• Laser hair removal for the face
• Bikini laser hair removal
• Underarm laser hair removal
• Laser hair removal for men

Usually between six to eight treatment sessions spaced between four to eight weeks apart are required. Results may be seen sooner but a full package is recommended for permanent results. Some re-growth may occur which can be treated with periodic “touch-up” visits.

Your skin may appear red and feel hot. This is perfectly normal. There may be slight swelling around hair follicle. Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation may occur albeit rare. Delayed shedding may occur where your hair can take 2 weeks to fall out and during that time can appear to look as if it is growing. This is temporary and the hair will fall out after approximately 2 weeks.

• Avoid sun exposure for 4 weeks before your treatment.
• Avoid applying fake tan for 1 week prior to your treatment.
• Do not pluck or wax area to be treated prior to your treatments.
• Shaving area prior to treatment is recommended in order to maximise effects from your treatment.

Most people describe laser hair removal like a “light rubber band snap”.

Laser hair removal is quick, safe and effective. It is important to attend a medical professional and competent practitioner. Your practitioner will discuss potential risks with you at your initial consultation. Laser hair removal side effects are rare if you have a patch test prior to your treatment and adhere to the pre procedure and post procedure advice given.