Laser Hair Removal is a proven effective and safe method of removing unwanted hair. The procedure is a quick and relatively painless alternative to waxing, tweezing, depilatories, and electrolysis. Lux Skin Lasers is proud to offer the Candela GentleLASE, the gold standard when it comes to laser hair removal. This nonsurgical and non-invasive way of removing unwanted body hair offers long-lasting – sometimes even permanent – results. It has a long history of safe use and is one of the most effective laser hair removal treatments available today. Dr. John Lee has chosen to offer laser hair removal with the Candela GentleLASE because it provides superior results and a very comfortable experience for our patients. Give us a call at 484-322-5316 today to schedule your laser hair removal consult in King of Prussia office, or our Bryn Mawr office!
Laser Hair Removal Treatment Areas
Candela GentleLASE can be used to remove unwanted hair anywhere on the body. The most popular treatment areas include:
- Legs
- Bikini area
- Underarms
- Face
- Back
- Chest
The Laser Hair Removal Procedure
At Lux Skin Lasers, our team has extensive training in the application of various lasers for laser hair removal. During your initial consultation, we will determine which laser will provide the best results and create a plan for your treatment.
We will ask you to refrain from shaving, waxing, or plucking hairs in the targeted area for several weeks prior to your treatment. During your session, you will be seated comfortably in a treatment chair and given goggles to protect your eyes. Most of our patients do not find the treatment very uncomfortable. Our esthetician will then place a hand piece against your skin and begin the treatment session. The hand piece is moved to a new location and the laser is activated again until the entire treatment area has been covered. GentleLASE is equipped with an advanced skin cooling mechanism that is used throughout the treatment to protect the surface of your skin and ensure your comfort.
Who is a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
If you have hair in an area you would like nothing but smooth, soft skin, you may be a great candidate for laser hair removal. The process works by targeting the pigment in your hair with intense pulses of light. When light is absorbed into the pigmented strand of hair, the follicle at the end of the strand sustains damage. Provided that there is sufficient contrast between your hair color and your skin tone, you should be able to achieve rewarding results from laser hair removal. When you visit our Bryn Mawr or our King Of Prussia office, you can expect to receive a thorough consultation and evaluation of your skin in the treatment area. Even if your hair and skin color are close to the same shade, you might see outstanding results from the latest laser technology!
How Long Does a Laser Hair Removal Treatment Take?
Laser hair removal treatments are very efficient. Smaller treatment areas, such as the upper lip or bikini line, may take just a few minutes. Larger areas, such as the legs can take over an hour. When you schedule your treatments, our team will let you know how long you can expect to be in the office.
How Should I Prepare for a Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
Your provider may give you specific instructions to follow before your laser hair removal treatments. General instructions include the following:
- Avoid sun exposure. For two weeks before each laser hair removal treatment, you must avoid tanning, including tanning beds and sunless tanning products. You can protect your skin from sunburn by applying broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen daily.
- Avoid topical products that may cause your skin to become sensitive to light. Examples include benzoyl peroxide, retinol, and hydroxy acids. Some essential oils, like orange, can cause photosensitivity as well and should be avoided.
- Contact our office if you begin taking a new medication during your laser hair removal treatment program.
- Avoid injectable treatments, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels for two weeks prior to laser hair removal.
- Shave the treatment area the night before your treatment (but don't wax or pluck).
- Do not apply topical products to your skin before arriving for your appointments.
What Does Laser Hair Removal Feel Like?
You may experience laser hair removal far differently than anyone else. This can occur due to a number of variables. Dehydration and lack of sleep can decrease your pain threshold. We recommend drinking plenty of water every day before laser hair removal and also prioritizing sleep. Women who are concerned about maximizing comfort during laser hair removal should schedule appointments one week after their period ends. It is at that phase of the menstrual cycle when pain tolerance is highest. Finally, your laser hair removal experience may be more or less uncomfortable due to your personal pain tolerance and the area we're treating. Some of the least sensitive areas include the legs and cheeks. The underarms, back, upper lip, and bikini area tend to be some of the most sensitive. If you're concerned about discomfort, talk to your provider! They will do their best to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
What Are the Risks of Laser Hair Removal?
In general, laser hair removal is viewed as a very safe procedure. To ensure the safest process, schedule this treatment with a trained, licensed professional who has performed many laser treatments in their career. Risks may also vary based on your complexion and your adherence to your pre and post-treatment care instructions. Most often, the side effects of laser hair removal are limited to temporary tenderness or warmth, skin irritation, and minor redness and swelling. These should resolve within 24 hours of your treatment. There is also a small risk of skin discoloration. Strict avoidance of sun exposure before treatment sessions can reduce the chances of unpleasant pigment changes.
Are Laser Hair Removal Results Permanent?
We typically discuss laser hair removal as a long-term form of hair reduction. Some of the follicles that we treat will be destroyed, disabling them permanently. However, some merely sustain damage. Technological advances in laser devices have increased the efficacy of this procedure, but some hair usually does grow back over time. How quickly this occurs varies based on several factors. When hair does grow back, it is usually much lighter and finer than it was naturally. Touch-up treatments can be scheduled as needed to target the hair follicles that resume active hair growth.
What can I expect after my laser hair removal treatment?
After your treatment session, you will be able to resume normal activities immediately. If needed, you can apply an ice pack to soothe the treated area and calm the skin. For the first few days, avoid exfoliating or scrubbing the skin and use gentle cleansers instead of abrasive ones. You will also need to avoid sun exposure during the entire course of your treatment to prevent the risk of pigmentation changes. Most of our patients require 6 to 7 treatment sessions, spaced at 3 to 8 week intervals. During your initial consultation, we will give you an idea of how many sessions will be required.
SCHEDULE A LASER HAIR REMOVAL CONSULTATION AT LUX SKIN & LASERS!
Interested in learning more about our laser hair removal treatments? Give us a call at 484-322-5316 to schedule your consultation with one of our estheticians today! You can also fill out the appointment request form in our contact page, and we will help you set up an appointment at our Bryn Mawr office, or our King Of Prussia office.