How does laser hair removal work?
The laser beam passes through the skin and is absorbed in the hair follicle residing underneath the skin's surface. The laser energy destroys the follicle with the heat that it generates. Destroyed hairs are then either dissolved within the skin or rejected by the body within two to three weeks.

How many laser hair removal procedures will be needed?
Laser hair removal procedures impair the growth of hair follicles when they are in the growth cycle at the time of the procedure. There are three phases in a person's hair growth cycle: Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen. This is why you need more than one procedure. Most people require approximately four to six procedures to have desired results.  This is standard practice with most type of laser hair removal system.

Does skin type or tanned skin make a difference for laser hair removal?
Both Candela GentleLASE and Lightsheer is safe and effective for all skin types. However, it may not be as effective for individuals with heavily tanned and/or very dark skin (Skin Type VI).  In addition, most lasers are not effective with those with light, red or gray hair due to the laser targeting the melanin in the skin.  

Is the laser hair removal procedure painful?
Our laser utilizes a special patented cooling system that lowers the temperature of the skin at the procedure site before, during, and after laser exposure. It is almost painless. No local anesthesia or pain medication is required, but for more sensitive areas, topical anesthetic gel is available at our Center.

What should I do before the procedure?
You must thoroughly shave your hair preferably the same day of the procedure.  Avoid indoor or outdoor tanning and use of self tanning products for approximately four weeks.  Do not wax, tweeze dye hair or have electrolysis two weeks prior to the procedure. Avoid skin care products with irritants such as Glycolic Acid or Retin-A in the procedure area for about a week. 

What should I expect following the laser hair removal procedure?
Once the laser hair removal procedure is complete you are free to return to your normal activities immediately. Some clients may experience a slight reddening around the hair follicles immediately following the procedure. This reaction typically disappears within a few hours. The use of sun screen at or above 25 SPF is recommended on all skin areas exposed to the sun for the next four weeks following the laser procedure.  It is also recommended that the client avoid heavy sun exposure for the next four weeks.  Application of ice or aloe gel after the procedure will generally facilitate healing.  Within two to three weeks after the laser hair removal procedure the body will be exfoliating the dead hairs.

Are there any side effects with laser hair removal?
Most clients experience a mild stinging or burning sensation when the laser pulse is delivered and some may experience a slight reddening of the skin or local swelling. This typically disappears within a short period of time from anywhere between a couple of hours to a couple of days.

Are the results of laser hair removal permanent?
The FDA has cleared both the Lightsheer and GentleLASE for permanent hair reduction.  Since lasers have only been used for hair removal for approximately ten  years, it is difficult to predict the effects of the procedure and how long it will last. However, studies have shown that clients are usually hair free and satisfied with the results.

What is Pseudo-Folliculitis?
Pseudo-folliculitis (PF), commonly known as shaving bumps, is an inflammatory condition, widespread among individuals with thick curly hair. As the hair grows out of the skin, it curls and re-enters the skin. The skin reacts to it as a foreign object and becomes inflamed and irritated, creating bumps and discoloration. Often hairs start curling even before growing out of the skin, creating in-grown hairs. These bumps become quite large, causing discomfort to the patient.

What types of lasers do you use? 
The GentleLASE 755 nm alexandrite laser is Candela's premier hair removal laser, treating quickly, comfortably and effectively. This laser is best for skin types 2 to 4 (light skin to olive skin types). Lightsheer diode laser is best for skin types 2 to 5.  Both GentleLASE and Lightsheer are safe and effective and have been cleared by the FDA.  
GentleLASE Lightsheer