Laser Hair Removal

Because treated follicles have been heated, the area may feel slightly sensitive (similar to mild sunburn) from a few minutes to a day or more, depending on your skin sensitivity level, hair thickness, and hair color. A soothing application (Aloe Vera, Aquaphor Healing Ointment, Biafine) and/or a cool compress or ice pack (over a thin towel) may be applied until the sensation, redness, and/or swelling subsides. Avoid hot water for 24–48 hours. Occasionally, crusts may form in some spots. Do not pick at anything; it will heal in a week or so. Any crusted areas should be kept extremely moist with a non-irritating moisturizer until healed.

For optimal results, multiple treatments are necessary. The number will vary depending on skin, hair type and hair color, and hormonal vs. non-hormonal areas. Treatment schedule varies between 3 and 12 weeks, depending on the body area, treatment number, and prior hair removal methods. Results may be more noticeable after the second or third treatment.

You will notice hair resurfacing from a few days to a few weeks after treatment. Gently exfoliating the area with a loofah sponge or rough washcloth will help lift the dead hair out of the follicles. You may also apply tape to the treated area and gently peel it off. Do not pull out hairs that are still connected; they are going through a “dying off” process and may need extra time. You may start either of these methods in a few days to a week or so, as long as the skin has returned to its original condition.

You may shave between treatments to keep a clean look if desired. Do not wax or tweeze the new layer of hair when it starts growing in, as it needs to be in the follicle for the next treatment.

Do not scratch or pick any area that itches or shows signs of healing. We recommend hydrocortisone for itching (Gold Bond Anti-Itch works well).

Make sure to call and let us know if the skin has blistered or has a superficial burn. Scarring or burning occurs in less than 1% of the treatment population, and almost always on darker or tanned skin.

It is important to protect the skin from sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and sunblock: SPF 30+ daily, or SPF 50+ daily when in the sun for more than a few minutes, and be sure to reapply throughout the day. Unprotected sun exposure before, after, or between treatments could cause or worsen discoloration (hypo- or hyper-pigmentation), especially during the first two weeks after each treatment. One should not undergo laser treatment if taking any sun-sensitizing medications, or if tan (from sun, tanning beds, or spray tans) in the area(s) to be treated.

One must wait at least six months after Accutane treatment ends before beginning laser hair removal or skin rejuvenation treatment. Do not use Retin-A or Alpha Hydroxy for a minimum of 1 week to 1 month before treatment.

Please let us know if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Pregnant women should not undergo laser hair removal; however, breastfeeding during treatment is not an issue.