LASER HAIR REMOVAL
Experience smooth, hair-free skin with our advanced LightSheer™ Diode laser technology. Safe, effective, and virtually painless, our laser hair removal services offer permanent hair reduction for most skin types. Discover the confidence of effortless beauty with Permanent Choice.
How Laser hair removal Works
Laser hair removal works by using a concentrated beam of laser energy to target the pigment in hair follicles. The hair absorbs this energy, turning it into heat, which damages the follicle and cuts off its blood supply, preventing future hair growth. This precise targeting focuses on the hair while minimizing any impact on the surrounding skin, making it a safe and effective method for long-lasting hair reduction.
We recommend 6-8 treatments, depending on the area being treated, with sessions spaced about 6 weeks apart. Some clients may need additional sessions to reach their desired results. The effectiveness of the treatment can vary based on individual factors, which your technician will discuss with you during your consultation.
Laser hair removal is most effective on hair in the Anagen phase because the hair follicle is fully connected to the root, allowing the laser energy to target and disable the follicle more effectively.
Hair growth occurs in a cycle that includes three main phases: Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen.
Anagen (Active Growth Stage): The Anagen phase can last anywhere from 4-8 weeks. It is during this phase that the hair contains the most pigment, and is attached to the blood supply, making it the most effective stage for laser hair removal treatment.
Catagen (Dormant Stage): The hair stops growing, the follicle shrinks and is preparing to shed. The Catagen phase typically lasts for about 10-20 days.
Telogen (Shedding Stage): During this phase, the hair is fully detached from the follicle and falls out. The Telogen phase lasts around 3-4 months. After this phase, the follicle returns to the Anagen phase, and the cycle begins again.
Who is a Candidate?
Ideal Candidates:
The ideal candidate for laser hair removal is someone with a Fitzpatrick skin type of |-IV with dark, coarse hair. The contrast between the skin and hair color allows the laser to effectively target the pigment in the hair follicle. However, advancements in technology have made it possible to treat a wider range of skin tones and hair types.
Candidates should be in good health, free from skin infections in the treatment area, and not have recently tanned skin.
Unideal Candidates:
Laser hair removal is not effective on white, red, or gray hair due to the lack of melanin. Clients with Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI may also face challenges, as the lack of contrast between skin and hair can increase the risk of skin damage. Additionally, those who are pregnant, have active skin infections, have certain skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema, are on photosensitizing medications, or have tattoos in treatment areas should avoid laser hair removal.
*If you are not a candidate for laser hair removal you may be a candidate for electrolysis.
Fitzpatrick Classification Scale
For help in assessing your Fitzpatrick Skin type please see – http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/are-you-at-risk/fitzpatrick-skin-quiz
What to expect
Consultation:
During your consultation, you'll meet with an experienced technician who will discuss your hair removal goals, assess your skin and hair type, and recommend a personalized treatment plan. We’re here to answer any questions you may have and ensure you feel confident and comfortable before starting your journey to smoother skin.
Pre-Treatment:
- Preparation:
Shaving: Shave the treatment area 1-2 days prior. For 1st time clients, leave a 1” x 1” square of hair for photos. If you can't shave, inform us when scheduling. A $25 fee will apply if we shave the area for you.
- Avoid Tweezing or Waxing: You cannot tweeze, wax, epilate, or thread 2 weeks before your 1st session or between sessions. If you're currently tweezing or waxing, contact us for specific guidance.
- Skin Care: Avoid both real and artificial sources of UV light. Keep your skin as light as possible for best results (Avoid sun tanning and self-tanners 3 weeks). Use SPF 30 or higher and cover the treatment area if exposed to the sun or artificial UV light.
- 7 days prior to your treatment avoid glycolic/lactic acid, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinol products, microdermabrasion, facials & chemical peels.
1 year prior to your treatment you must have been off Accutane.
Medical Considerations:
Before beginning treatment, discuss any of the following conditions with your technician:
- Herpes
- Lupus
- Melanoma
- Tendency to keloid
- Psoriasis
- Pigmentary issues
- Previous hair removal treatments
* If you are pregnant or become pregnant during your treatment, services will be paused for your safety. Please inform us in advance so we can reschedule your sessions accordingly.
* Please, inform your technician about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some can increase sensitivity to light. We are unable to perform treatments for clients taking light-sensitizing medications such as antibiotics, Z-Pac, or prescription creams within the last 10 days.
During Treatment:
- Sensation: Most clients describe the laser treatment as feeling like a rubber band snap or a quick needle poke. The discomfort is brief and only lasts while the treatment is being performed. If you don’t feel a snapping sensation, the settings may be incorrect or the hair may not be suitable for treatment. General warmth indicates the settings might be too low.
Cooling: The patented ChillTip™ on the laser provides direct cooling before, during, and after the laser is applied, drawing heat away from the skin’s surface. You might feel a sunburn-like sensation for a few hours post-treatment.
Post-Treatment:
Immediate Effects: Expect redness and bumps in the treated area, which may last up to 2 hours or longer for some individuals. A sunburn-like sensation is normal and may continue into the next day. Use a cold compress, aloe vera gel, or witch hazel if needed to aid in soothing.
Hair Shedding: 5-21 days post-treatment, the treated hair will shed. This is normal and indicates the treated hair is pushing out of the follicle. Gently exfoliate with a washcloth to assist in this process. Each session generally results in a 15-20% reduction in hair. After the initial 3 weeks, expect minimal hair growth until 1-2 before your next session.
- Aftercare:
Showering/Bathing: Use tepid water and mild soap. Pat the skin dry—do not rub.
Deodorant: Wait 24 hours before applying deodorant to treated areas.
Avoid: Hot tubs, pools, and public gyms for 24 hours to prevent bacterial exposure.
Avoid Irritation: Do not pick, scratch, tweeze, or wax the treated area.
Sun Protection: Treated skin will be more sun sensitive for 2 weeks post treatment, use a full-spectrum sunblock and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Makeup: Use only pure mineral makeup immediately after treatment and ensure it’s fresh and new.
Moisturizing: Apply moisturizer liberally to the treated area to help the dead hair exfoliate more easily.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding laser hair removal instructions or treatments, please contact us at (952) 898-1111
