Laser hair removal is a safe, fast and effective alternative for removing unwanted hair. Lasers work by emitting a specialized light that is passed through the skin and absorbed by melanin (color) in the hair follicle, damaging the follicle and removing the hair. Laser hair removal is a very safe procedure and can be used effectively on all body parts, including the face, back, underarms, bikini line, legs and arms.

FAQs

How does it work?
The Sciton laser selectively targets your hair follicles and heats them with infrared energy. The laser employs a unique computer-guided scanning system that automates the treatment, setting the parameters and placing the beam in an optimum pattern for your skin, thus ensuring that you skin is rapidly and evenly treated. You will have a safe, fast, effective and gentle treatment.

Can all skin colors be treated?
Yes. Laser hair removal is effective for all skin types from Type I (very fair, always burns and never tans — usually blonde hair and blue eyes) through Type VI (never burns — black skin, black hair).

Can tanned skin be treated?
Tanned skin can be treated safely, but always inform your physician if you have been tanning or exposed to the sun within the last three weeks so your treatment regime can be adjusted accordingly to give you the safest and most effective experience.

What happens during hair removal treatment?
The area of your skin that is to be treated will be scanned with laser light from the Sciton system. Treatment time will depend upon the area to be treated. A system for cooling your skin will be used to remove the heat from the laser and ensure a comfortable treatment. Depending on your skin’s sensitivity, a topical anesthesia may be applied to provide additional comfort.

How do I prepare for my appointment?
On the day of your treatment, wear clothing that will allow easy access to the area being treated. You will also want to shave the area to be treated prior to your appointment as laser hair removal works best when the hair is 1-2 millimeters in length.

What should I expect after treatment?
Generally, some redness will remain for approximately five to seven days — longer for some patients and shorter for others. Some redness and slight swelling may be present in the area that has been treated, however, this should subside within a few hours. If any prolonged redness or swelling occurs, you should consult your physician. Following laser hair removal, you will need to keep the area clean and use a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 when outdoors.

Are there any possible complications?
There is a low risk of pigmentary changes in the skin. Please be sure to discuss any concerns with your physician prior to your treatment. (S)he can outline all possible complications and ensure that you have a worry-free treatment.

Can pseudofolliculitis be treated?
Yes. Pseudofolliculitis is a type of chronic acne disorder caused by ingrown coarse or curly hairs, which affects darker skin types.The infrared energy delivered by the Sciton laser is the preferred method of treatment for this disorder.

Is treatment permanent?
Typically, each laser treatment results in some permanent hair loss and most cases require several treatments. The number of treatments will depend on your response to laser therapy and the amount of hair to be removed. Many patients are happy with a reasonable degree of hair reduction. In addition, any remaining hair is often lighter in color and thinner than the original hair. As with other treatments for unwanted hair, there is no guarantee that laser hair removal treatment will be permanent.

How many treatments will I need?
Typically, hair removal requires three to five treatments done at five to eight week intervals. There are three phases of hair growth: anagen, catagen and telogen. Only hairs in the active growth phase, anagen, can be successfully treated.

Does treatment hurt? What can I expect with the procedure?
Most patients describe laser hair removal as feeling “prickly” or like the light snap of a rubber band against the skin. Afterwards, it might feel like a bad sunburn. Each patient has his or her own level of skin sensitivity and pain threshold. Different areas on the body are also more sensitive than others.

How much does treatment cost?
The cost of a hair removal program depends on the size of the area to be treated and the number of treatments necessary. We offer package discounts, which will be reviewed with you during your consultation.