Laser Hair Removal

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser Hair Removal(LHR) is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. It uses highly concentrated light to penetrate hair follicles and inhibit future hair growth.

Currently LHR is the most popular and effective method which provides minimal discomfort and less downtime for permanent hair reduction.

How does LHR work for hair removal?

Simply put, LHR uses light energy which is converted into heat or thermal energy which causes thermal injury of stem cells (permanent hair loss) or thermal destruction of hair bulb (stops hair growth).

How many treatments might I need and how fast will I see results?

The amount of treatments depends on the area being treated. On average, 6 treatments are carried out, usually once every 6 weeks - this means that a full treatment cycle can take up to nine month. People with coarse hair need 2 to 5 extra treatments. Every treatment you will see 20% of hair reduction.

Is LHR really permanent?

In short, no. Although the procedure is often advertised as a form of "permanent" hair removal, laser treatment only reduced the number of unwanted hairs in a performed area.

Good news: depending on the area to be treated, hair colour, coarseness and density of the hair, some people may even go years without seeing any regrowth. If you do, it definitely tends to be finer and lighter in colour and density than before.

Advice: after the initial treatment, LHR should be permanent if you have a yearly touch-up session.

What are the side effects? Is laser hair removal painful? Is LHR cancerous?

One of the benefits of LHR is that it is a non-invasive method of treatment, so it involves no downtime and, as a result, the side effects are minimal. Usually, there may be a little redness and swelling which can be treated by simply applying ice. However, depending on the sensitivity of your skin, mild blistering or bruising of the treated areas lasting from several hours to 3-14 days could happen. Generally speaking, LHR is not painful because of the Integrated Cooling System for patient comfort. Sometimes you could feel a mild tingling sensation which is treated simply by using a soothing cream or lotion.

The lasers used for LHR are specifically designed to pass through the skin cells and target only the hair follicles. Small amount of radiation used in lasers isn't harmful, and there is no evidence that LHR procedure causes skin cancer.

How to prepare the skin for laser hair removal?

-Do NOT tan or use self-tans or solariums during four weeks.
-Do NOT use skin resurfacing products (RetinA, Glycolic Peels) during 14 days prior to treatment.
-Refrain from plucking or waxing for at least 2-4 weeks prior to laser hair removal.
-Remove perfumes & makeup before treatment.
-Shave the area that will be treated prior to 24 hours to your appointment.
-Do NOT bleach your hair.

Precautions for the first days after LHR

After laser hair removal is important to avoid the excessive heat for 24 hours (saunas, hot shower or baths), the sun and excessive exercise for several days (especially for the first 48 hours); keep the area clean and wear SPF of 30 full spectrum; do NOT apply perfume, creams, lotions or makeup for 24 hours (natural mineral cosmetics can be used). Also, avoid any aggressive skin care products such as scrubs, exfoliants etc.

Who is a good and not a good candidate for laser hair removal?

People with white, untanned skin and dark hair are the best candidates. This allows the laser to focus its light on the pigment within the hair and does not have pigment within the skin competing for. People with naturally dark skin type or deeply tanned skin sometimes experience complications, so they should discuss such issues with an experienced skin care specialist. However, there are specific lasers that can be used successfully. Those one that have blonde or white hair, unfortunately, are not good candidates for this treatment, as they lack the pigment necessary for treatment.

Who should NOT have laser hair removal?

Pregnant women should avoid LHR treatment until after they give birth; breast feeding; people, who have sensitivity or allergy to light; people who take contraindicated medications (steroids, hormone replacement therapy) or have contraindicated diseases (lupus, cancer, diabetes); people who have a tendency to form keloids scars or develop increased or decreased skin pigmentation when healing. Also, people who are taking Accutane should avoid laser hair removal until at least six month after they stop using the medication. It's also vital to not have any skin rashes, infections, or open wounds on the treated area.

What kind of LHR technology do you use?

At Vancouver Green Spa we use diode laser hair removal machine.

How can I learn more about LHR?

To learn more about this innovative treatment and how it can benefit you, we suggest you make an appointment to visit our salon. This way we can show you our facility, equipment and answer any questions you have in person. A consultation with our professionals is free and does not come with any obligations, so don’t hesitate and please call (604) 441-1236.