Laser technology offers long-term hair removal at the speed of light, scientifically calibrated to your unique hair and skin type. Laser hair removal does not pull hair out like waxing, nor does it individually probe each follicle like electrolisys since many follicles are treated at once.

Laser-assisted hair removal has been shown to be more effective than any other hair removal process currently available. It is an FDA-approved procedure. While complete elimination of hair cannot be guaranteed, the majority of patients report thinner, more sparse, and slower regrowth of hair after laser treatment.

Hair growth comprises three stages. Laser technology is designed to treat hair in its active, or anagen, phase of growth when it contains the most pigment.

Highly concentrated light is transmitted 1-5 milimeters into the skin. The light targets the melanin, or pigment, in hair follicles. The pigment absorbs the light, where it is converted to heat, causing thermal damage to the follicle without harming the surrounding skin. The follicle is then disabled, and hair regrowth is prevented.

Several factors determine the number of treatments required to achieve the desired results: the rate of hair growth, the type of hair (coarse or thin) and the color of hair. Each varies between individuals and different body areas. While most patients report a significant reduction in hair growth after one or two laser sessions, additional laser treatments are usually necessary to achieve the desired effect.

Areas which are commonly treated include women's upper lip, chin, bikini, legs and underarms; and men's shoulders and backs. Additional treatment sites include the nose, ears and buttocks.

Allow your hair on the treatment site to grow for three or four days prior to your scheduled appointment. If necessary, shaving - but not waxing - is permitted prior to the laser treatment. Trim heavy growth to a stubble. Do not tan the area or use self-tanning creams for at least three weeks prior to your appointment.

Do not use glycolic or Retin-A products on the areas to be treated for at least three days prior to the procedure.

First, the area to be treated is shaved and cleansed. Then a 'cooling gel' is applied to the skin. Finally the laser is scanned over the area. The skin is cleansed immediately after treatment and a moisturizer is applied.

Although no two people have the same tolerance for pain, patients state that the sensation from the laser is similar to that of a rubber band being snapped against the skin. For extra-sensitive treament areas, a local anesthetic cream may be applied prior to treatment.

The length of an individual treatment is based on density of hair growth and overall size of the area to be treated. Sessions for an upper lip or bikini area can take as little as 15 minutes, while larger back and leg areas may require up to an hour or more.

Most patients show very little skin irritation. The skin usually appears mildly pink in color for a brief time. No special care is generally required. Dependng on the area treated, a moisturizing cream may be recommended.

You must have a complete consultation with one of our dermatologists, in order to evaluate the presence, extent, and possible cause of the undesired hair. Should the hair be determined to be appropriate for treatment, the laser-assisted hair removal process may be initiated.

It is important that the hair on the treatment site is fully grown during the consultation.

Laser-assisted hair removal has been shown to be more effective and longer-lasting than any other hair removal process currently available. Ask your physician if it's right for you.