Laser Hair Removal

A common question is whether a customer should choose laser or IPL treatments. Both have been commercially available since the mid 1990’s and both involve producing light energy, which is then absorbed and converted into heat to cause denaturing of the target. This is where the similarities end.

Laser is more effective and achieves much better results. Lasers are more precise in producing a single wavelength of light, which is then concentrated to a specific target. IPL produces a broad spectrum of light that cannot be focused at one specific target. With IPL the range of wavelengths produced means the energy is dispersed between them with only a few wavelengths reaching the intended target. With Laser all the energy is targeted in one wavelength at the target.

As laser is directed purely at the hair follicle there is much less risk of skin damage. This allows for the treatment of all skin types can be treated. With IPL being multi-directional only lighter skin types can be treated.

In short; laser is a safer, more effective treatment with superior results.

As with all cells the hair follicle has a growth cycle. In order for the hair to be permanently denatured it has to be treated in its growing stage. As the hair bulb cannot be seen below the skin its state of growth cannot be identified at the time of treatment. At any one time only 30% of the body’s hair will be in the growth stage. A course of treatments is therefore needed to achieve a good reduction of hair growth.

No. Laser hair removal doesn’t ‘hurt’ but there will be a feeling of slight heating in the area treated (sometimes described as a ‘flick’ of heat). Some areas can be more sensitive than others. A chiller is used for all treatments which reduces the heat sensation ensuring minimal discomfort. Some women may experience exaggerated skin sensitivity prior to and during their monthly period.

This is dependent on the stage and area of treatment. The guidelines are approximately for face 4-6 weeks and body 6-8 weeks.

Experience, expertise and the very best equipment. Our training is second to none, and we work closely to a leading laser centre to ensure our technicians are kept up to date in all areas. All of our customers can be reassured that they are in the very best hands.

Directly after treatment there might be some redness and a small amount of swelling. This usually dissipates within 1-24 hours. The area can feel quite warm and ‘tingly’ directly following treatment. The following is recommended for 24 hours post treatment:

• No hot baths or showers – tepid only
• No heat treatments i.e. saunas and steam rooms
• No deodorant, perfumes or scented body lotions/creams
• No swimming or Jacuzzis
• No steam ironing or cooking over boiling saucepans

• Do not use products containing retinol or strong AHA fruit acids prior to or during your hair removal treatment
• Do not bleach or use depilators for at least 1 week prior to treatment or perfumed/aromatherapy products for 24-48 hours before treatment
• Avoid swimming in strong chlorinated water immediately before treatment
• Avoid wearing tight clothing when attending the treatment
• Keep the area clean and dry
• Physical sunblock should be worn at all times on areas visible to sunlight (SPF 30)
• Avoid sun exposure and sun beds for 4 weeks before treatment
• Avoid use of irritants or stimulant solutions or creams on the area
• Do not use any other form of hair removal except shaving during your treatment programme and shave no earlier than 2-4 days after treatment
• Should area appear red or tender then apply recommended aftercare gel or apply ice or cooling gel packs which can improve comfort and reduce redness and swelling
• Do not use fake tanning products for two weeks prior to treatments including spray tanning and tinted moisturisers