Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Hair Removal
Am I a candidate for laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is not for everyone but the vast majority of people can be treated. The absolute requirement is that one's hair must be darker than the surrounding skin.
How much does laser hair removal cost?
Treatment cost varies with the size of the area treated. Large areas, such as the entire back, or the entire legs cost considerably more than the upper lip or underarms. Individual consultation with the clinic is necessary to obtain exact pricing.
Does skin colour influence laser hair removal?
Lighter skin makes laser hair removal easier to perform. Fewer treatments are required, and better, faster results are obtained. People with darker skin can be treated, but results are slower and more sessions are required. Laser hair removal must be individualized for each patient.
Tanning and laser hair removal.
Tanning and laser hair removal are not compatible. Tanning prior to the procedure will necessitate turning the laser power down, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.
Does hair colour influence laser hair removal?
Dark hair absorbs more laser energy and is easier to treat. Coarse dark hair responds the best to laser treatment. Light hair is more difficult to treat. Blonde or red hair is very difficult to treat.
Does laser hair removal require multiple treatments?
Although one laser session can produce long-term hair removal, as a rule multiple treatment sessions 6-8 weeks apart are necessary to obtain optimal results. In large part this is due to the fact that laser hair removal is most effective on hair that is in the anagen phase. Anagen is the growth phase of hair. Since hair grows in cycles, not all of the hairs are in anagen at any given time. Additional sessions are necessary to catch all of the hairs when they are in anagen.
What areas can be treated?
All areas can be treated except the area next to the eye. The most common areas requested are the face, upper lip, neck, chest, underarms, back, abdomen, bikini line, and legs.
Is hair reduction by laser permanent?
Waxing, shaving, and plucking all produce hair removal that is temporary. There is clear evidence that lasers provide permanent hair reduction after each treatment. The results tend to be additive, i.e. more treatments lead to greater degrees of permanent hair reduction.
Are there any guarantees with laser hair removal?
It is impossible to predict the exact result a person will achieve with laser hair removal, especially with regard to how many sessions a given individual will require.
Is laser hair removal painful?
Most people experience a warm sting that although uncomfortable is well tolerated. A topical anaesthetic can be used to minimise any discomfort.
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