At Oakville Plastic Surgery, we offer a solution to your prickly problem. Using the GentleMax laser from Candela – the gold standard in gentle laser hair removal™ – we can safely and comfortably remove unwanted hair. This dual wavelength laser combines the efficacy of the 755 nm Alexandrite laser with the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser for unmatched speed, performance and patient safety.
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser specifically targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. The laser concentrates its energy on the melanin and effectively destroys it (and the attached hair follicle) through heat energy, preventing future growth.
Is everyone a candidate for laser hair removal?
Because laser hair removal targets pigment discrepancies, the fairer the hair, the harder it is to guarantee results. Ideal laser candidates have pale skin and course dark hair. But that doesn’t mean darker skin pigments can’t have laser hair removal, it just means that more sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal results. We can treat skin types one to six safely and effectively with the GentleMax laser.
Is laser hair removal safe?
Yes. We always preform an initial consultation and patch test before any actual treatment is performed. This ensures the correct parameters are chosen depending on your unique skin and hair type. The laser penetration is superficial, only three to five millimeters into the skin’s surface.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Pain is subjective. Most patients describe the sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Depending on the amount and delivery of the laser energy, and the treatment area, some lasers can hurt more than others. Topical numbing creams are available for the more delicate areas (upper lip and bikini) if necessary. Our lasers have a built-in cooling system for added patient comfort.
How long are the treatment sessions?
Treatment times will vary depending on the density of the hair and the treatment area. The upper lip can take only a few minutes, underarms under 10 minutes, bikini around 15 and larger areas such as the back can take around an hour.
How should I prepare for a laser hair removal appointment?
Unlike waxing or electrolysis, you do not need weeks of hair growth for a laser hair removal treatment. We ask that you shave the treatment area one to three days before your appointment (depending on its rate of growth) and avoid waxing, tweezing or hair removal creams since the hair needs to be attached to the root for the laser to be effective. Because the laser targets hair pigment, avoid bleaching the hair and any form of tanning – this will make it harder for the laser to distinguish differences in pigment and can result in laser burn.
Why is a tan so bad?
The laser targets pigment. You want the laser to target the hair, not the skin. If you are tanned, the laser divides its energy between the hair follicle and the surrounding skin, which can result in a burn. Laser hair removal is recommended in the winter months since sun exposure is decreased and summer tans have dissipated.
Does the hair fall out immediately after treatment?
Some of the hair will fall out right after treatment, however it can take up to three weeks for all treated hair to shed. Once all the treated hair has been shed, you will experience a hair free period until the next cycle of hair growth. It’s important to remember that hair grows in cycles. Laser hair removal targets hairs in the active growth cycle, which is why multiple treatment sessions are necessary for optimal results.
How many treatments should I expect to need?
This varies from person to person but the average is five to seven treatments spaced out every six to eight weeks. Our hair grows in various stages and cycles, and laser hair removal can only target hairs that are in the actively growing follicles (anagen phase). We have to target the hair throughout a series of treatments in order to ensure each follicle has been targeted during its anagen stage.
How much?
Cost varies by treatment area and will be determined during your complimentary consultation.
My local spa offers laser hair removal, should I just go there?
Laser hair removal is everywhere and it isn’t always a good thing. With so many day spas and nail salons offering laser hair removal, the instances of complications are on the rise. There is very little regulation surrounding who can own and operate a laser hair removal device. The commonality of laser hair removal is compromising its complexity. It’s important to do your research before committing to a laser hair removal treatment. What technology are they using? Who is the provider? What is their training and experience? What other treatments does the spa provide? If you don’t know these questions, don’t sign up for the treatment.
Laser hair removal is a simple and safe treatment – when performed by a qualified laser technician with years of clinical experience. We stand behind our technology, our treatment providers and our results. Known for her gentle touch and expert application. Ask us for before and after pictures in your complimentary consultation. We want you to understand all aspects of the treatment process before committing to a series of laser hair removal treatments.
Ready to reclaim those lost hours from shaving? Contact us to schedule a complimentary laser hair removal consultation today.
