Laser Hair Removal FAQs
Most commonly asked questions about: LASER HAIR REMOVAL
What takes place during a consultation?
Our consultations are complimentary and usually last about 30 minutes. We explain the function of the laser, determine the your skin type, and educate you about the procedure. Additionally, a skin test may be able to be done to determine your dosage and treatment range. This is dependent on your skin type and other conditions at the time of consultation.
Who will perform your laser epilation?
Our practitioners are Registered Nurses in conjunction with an attending Plastic Surgeon.
How does the laser work?
The laser selectively targets the melanin (pigment) in your hair, which will absorb the energy and destroy the follicle. The laser does not affect follicles without hair. The strength of the laser treatment is customized for each patient to assure effective exfoliation with minimal skin effects.
Why do you need to do a skin test?
A skin test is performed on all patients in order to determine your therapeutic dosage and treatment range. Your laser practitioner will discuss all elements of what to expect with you prior, during and after the skin test. Typically, you will return in 2-4 weeks to evaluate the results of the skin test and administer the first treatment.
What will the laser treatment feel like?
Typically, you will feel warmth on your skin and another sensation, which feels much like a soft "rubber-band snap. This second sensation is the absorption of the laser energy by the follicle. Your practitioner will explain these sensations in detail during your consultation and throughout your treatment sessions.
How much do the epilation treatments cost?
Cost of treatment depends on size of surface area and amount of treatment time. Hair removal on a man's back, for example, takes considerably more time than hair removal on a woman's upper lip. We invite you to call us at (203) 791-9661 and ask for laser hair removal pricing. Just let us know which area(s) you're interested in and whether the service is for a woman or a man.
How many treatments will I need?
This is dependent on your skin type, hair color and hair growth phase. The laser will destroy the hair follicle during a certain phase of the hair growth cycle. Typically, 20% of your hair will be in the phase during your treatment. Treatments are scheduled 4-6 weeks apart in order to treat the follicles accordingly. Your practitioner will discuss in detail during your consultation and throughout your treatment.
What do I need to know before I have my first treatment?
You should not wax, use electrolysis or lightening products for at least one month prior to consult or treatment. Depending on the treatment area, you may shave or clip the hair a day or two before your first treatment. You cannot be tan during any phase of treatment; this includes usage of tanning products as well.
What happens during the laser epilation treatment?
During the laser treatment your skin is cooled with a chilled gel to release the heat from the laser. After treatment your skin is cooled with a cold compress or towel and chilled Aloe Vera gel is applied. Some patients have redness that lasts for a short time after their treatment. Most of the time the redness is gone within an hour or even less.
How do I take care of my skin after I have my treatment?
You should take gentle care of your lasered area with mild soaps, non-abrasive cleansers. Cooled aloe is calming to the area.
Can I use an anesthetic cream prior to treatment?
Depending on the area of treatment and your tolerance, you may be able to use an anesthetic cream. Your practitioner will discuss this with you at the time of consultation.
Here is some brief information about typical treatment areas:
Face/Upper lip - usually takes 20-30 minutes. You should not wear makeup during the treatment. Skin test for the face is performed on a skin area with similar conditions prior to using the laser on your face. You and the practitioner will determine this during the consultation.
Underarms/axilla - usually takes 20-30 minutes for both sides. For best results, you should come to the skin test and treatment sessions with shaved hair.
Bikini - usually takes 30-45 minutes to treat. For best results, you should come to the skin test and treatment sessions with shaved hair.
Back - usually takes from 1-2 hours to treat. As with other areas, for best results, you should come to the skin test and treatment sessions with shaved hair. If you are unable to shave or choose not to shave, the practitioners will be able to shave prior to treatment. Cost depends on size of surface area, amount of treatment time.
Legs - usually from 1 ½ -2 hours to treat. You should shave prior to treatment so the hair is short. Complete legs cost depends on the amount of time it will take to treat. Full leg treatment includes bikini to toes.
Lower legs - usually 1-1.5 hours to treat. Treatment areas is from the knee down, front and back, including feet and toes.
Other treatment areas include:
- Arms - approx. 45-60 minutes to treat.
- Chest - approx. 30 minutes to treat
- Ears - 15-20 minutes to treat
- Buttocks - usually takes 45-60 minutes to treat
- Breast - usually 20 minutes to treat
- We do not treat eyebrows