How does the laser work?

The laser emits a beam of light onto the skin, which is absorbed by melanin – pigmentation – in the hair follicle.  This light absorption creates thermal energy, or heat, which kills the hair.  The dead hair then falls out within 10-20 days after treatment.  Hair that does not have any pigmentation in it (white, fair, blonde, grey) cannot be ‘seen’ by the laser and consequently will not be treated.

Which Lasers do you use and why?

We only use the Candela Gentlelase Alexandrite. These lasers have proven over many years to be the most effective and should not be compared to IPL's, which are usually used by beauticians.  Only Doctors and Nurses are permitted to purchase this Medical Grade Laser

Can laser treatment damage my skin?
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive treatment.  The energy from a laser is non-ionising, unlike sun beds, the sun and x-rays for example which are ionising and have the potential to cause permanent changes to the skin.  Your Nurse will perform a spot test to determine how well your hair and skin responds, the choose the correct settings for you.

It is important that you do not have a suntan whilst being treated, as the laser could target the pigmentation on the skin as well as the pigmentation in the hair.

Can the laser treat Asian type skin?
Yes, this is generally not a problem as long as the person does not have a suntan as well.

Why will I need more than one treatment?
The laser will only be effective on actively growing hairs.  At any given time, you have many hair follicles that are dormant or resting.  As these follicles being actively growing, they too will need treating.

How many treatments will I need to achieve satisfactory hair removal?
Most clients will require 4-6 visits at 12 weekly intervals. This is due to the various stages in which hair grows.  The number of treatments required also depends on your own personal cycles of hair growth.  Your Nurse will also ask you questions to determine if there could be a possible hormone problem that is the cause of excess unwanted hair (see PCOS fact page).

How long does a treatment take?
Areas as large as the entire back or both legs can usually be done in about an hour.  Smaller areas such as the upper lip can be done in about 1-2 minutes.

How often will I need treatments?
This varies since each individual’s hair grows at different rates.  Treatments are usually spaced about 3 months apart.

What happens during the procedure?
As we are using a laser, you will be required to wear a special pair of goggles to completely protect your eyes.  A ‘wand’ is then passed over the area and a beam of light shone onto the skin.  That’s it really!

Does it hurt?
The majority of clients experience a little discomfort and tolerate the procedure well.  Most clients state it is not as painful as waxing.  However, some areas can be more sensitive than others.

Can I have a topical analgesia?
We do not use such products.  Not only can these reduce the effectiveness of the treatment, by contracting the blood vessels, there have been cases cream entering the bloodstream and causing fatalities.  Oral analgesia (Paracetamol) can be taken if necessary, but is rarely needed.

How can I find out more?
Simply book into your nearest clinic for a consultation.  There is no charge for this appointment or a test area and no obligation to return to us.

Treating Male Clients and Why It Is Different and Difficult

Unfortunately, treating male clients is not as easy as treating female clients.  This is due in part, to the amount of male hormones present in the body which are responsible for the production of hair.

Expected Outcomes:  While we tell female clients to expect on average 4 treatments, we advise male clients to budget for, on average, 10.  We have seen excellent results in as little as 3 or 4, but these are the exception rather than the rule.