Laser Hair Removal
What is laser?
Laser is an intense beam of light energy, which at different wavelenths, targets different structures in the skin. Our new generation Alexandrite Hair Removal Laser targets the pigment in the hair follicle, destroying it without causing damage to the surrounding skin.
Hair grows in a 3-phase cycle- it has a growing phase, a dormancy phase and a resting phase. Only hair that is in the growing (anagen) phase can be successfully removed with the laser. At any one time approximately 85% of hairs are in the anagen phase. This is why a series of treatments is required to get effective hair reduction.
How permanent is the laser?
No laser can guarantee permanent hair removal. Anyone who claims this is bending the truth. Our laser has FDA approval for permanent hair reduction. It is as permanent as today's technology allows.
Which type of laser is the best for hair removal?
There are many lasers being marketed today, and many of them will reduce hair growth. This practice has tested all the types of laser in the current market and we believe our Alexandrite to be the best because:-)
- It produced the best result with the least side effect of all the lasers tested.
- It is much less painful than other lasers.
- Its target depth is the same as the hair follicle so it is more effective at obliteration of the
unwanted hair.
- The large hand piece can deliver the treatment to an area 5 X the size of most other lasers
which means faster treatment and lower cost to the patient.
- The computerized delivery system helps to ensure safe and effective treatment
How many sessions do I need?
Because hair grows in cycles, you will probably require four to six treatments, depending on the type and quality of the hair. Many patients find that they are happy after 3 or 4 treatments, but may need a maintenance session about 6 months down the track. With each session there will be less hair to treat, so it may be faster and less expensive
Is the procedure painful?
No, not really. It is described as a slight stinging, or feeling of heat. Some say it feels like a snap of an elastic band, while others experience no discomfort at all. It depends on the individual
Are there any side effects?
The procedure is very safe with a less than 5% complication rate. Immediately after the treatment there is usually some redness and perhaps some slight swelling. This is similar to the appearance of skin after waxing, and should resolve within a few hours. In a minority of cases it may take up to twenty-four hours afterwards.
More serious complications are rare, but these include skin burning, pigmentation changes, scarring, prolonged redness and swelling, and occasional indentation of skin. Our Laser Nurses are well trained in laser technology, including laser safety, and they have experience with a wide range of lasers. This practice pays scrupulous attention to ensuring the best possible patient result without complications.
What will affect the procedure?
- Please stay out of the sun for at least three to four weeks prior to laser therapy. Because the
laser targets pigment, if your skin is tanned you are at risk of burning.
- No solariums or fake tans prior to laser therapy for at least three to four weeks.
- No waxing or bleaching for at least two weeks prior to laser.
- Please shave area one to two days prior to treatment.
- Please refrain from wearing any makeup or moisturiser if treating face, deodorants if treating
underarms or moisturisers to body if treating those areas.
- If you are having your bikini line treated please wear white underwear.
Post treatments
Keep the treated area clean and free from cosmetics or creams for at least 24hrs after treatment and ensure you stay out of the sun for at least two weeks.
We always want to know if you have any questions or problems with your treatment. Please call us immediately if you have any concerns at all. In particular if redness persists, if the area is painful, or if you have any worries over pigment changes, please let us know.