Laser Hair Removal

Exactly how does it work?
For a fraction of a second, highly concentrated light beams are directed at a small section of your unwanted body hair. This laser energy is absorbed by the pigmented hair shaft and transferred to the melanin in the follicle. The sudden energy absorption causes a fraction-of-a-second heat reaction, dissolving the hair and preventing future hair production.

Your hair actually grows in three phases: active growth (anagen) phase, regressive (catagen) phase, and resting (telogen) phase. The laser most effectively disables hair in the anagen phase. Each one of your hair follicles can be in different growth stages. With each treatment we are targeting those hairs in the “active growth” phase. This is why you need more than one treatment.

Consultation (Always No Charge)

Learn about the laser hair removal process through a complimentary consultation with our trained technician. She will review your skin type and hair characteristics and discuss a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. Be prepared to discuss your skin history including previous skin care products used, unprotected sun exposure, and past hair removal treatments. It will also be beneficial to discuss medications, vitamins and supplements you have taken in addition to your physical daily activity. If you have any specific concerns or questions, now is the time to discuss them.

Since when can lasers do that?
The FDA approved the use of lasers for hair removal in 1995. Since then, numerous studies have been conducted and significant technological improvements have been made. Basically, hair removal devices now available today include: 694 nm ruby lasers, 755 nm alexandrite lasers, 805 nm diode lasers, 1064 nm Nd:YAG lasers, and filtered xenon flashlamps.

What process does Dr. Stewart use?

Our Medical Director, Dr. Charles H. Stewart, has 17 years of experience in the aesthetics industry. For years, he followed advancements in laser hair removal and only began offering the procedure once he believed the technology was fully advanced. We are committed to offering patients the most advanced, most effective, and safest technologies for laser hair removal. Therefore, Dr. Stewart has invested in the premiere 755 Epitouch Alexandrite Laser System by Lumenis and the 1064 ND:Yag CoolGlide Laser System by Altius. The combined lasers have received FDA approval to effectively remove unwanted hair on all skin types.

Does it hurt?
This is a common question from all new patients. One of our own employees who has been lasered almost all-over describes the feeling: “it’s pretty mild, kind of like the snap of a rubber band.” However, a topical anesthetic that numbs the skin, greatly reducing any discomfort is available by prescription if requested. In addition, the Coolglide laser has a revolutionary ChillTip a cool sapphire surface that protects the epidermis and provides an additional anesthetic effect. Some patients even claim it to be “comparatively painless” when judging the procedure against other forms of hair removal like waxing or electrolysis.

Are there any side effects? Or risks?
After treatment some redness and minimal swelling—similar to a sunburn— usually occurs as a result of the laser energy. This is a desired clinical endpoint, as it indicates that the patient has been treated at the appropriate fluence. The sunburned feeling and swelling can last anywhere from 3 hours to 3 days. As for risks, laser hair removal is proven to be a very safe procedure, and there is little or no chance of scarring associated with this process. In certain instances (especially in those with darker complexions) temporary pigmentation changes may be noted.