Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do you use
Combining the 755nm Alexandrite and 1064nm Nd: YAG in one system made this laser an obvious winner. The 755nm is the “gold standard” for skin types I - III while the high powered Nd: YAG is the “gold standard” for types IV - VI. This is a serious “no Compromise” laser for hair removal. Elite iQ is the newest member of the Elite product family featuring increased energy, the Skintel™ Melanin Reader™, and a modern design for fast, safe, and effective treatments. The independent SmartCool system allows for very light hand pieces which significantly reduces operator fatigue when treating large areas.
Medications I should be aware of
We advise you to wait at least 6 months after completing a course of Accutane before commencing laser hair removal.
Lasers should also be avoided in persons on oral Isotrentinoin Treatment and should not be done for approximately 6 months after stoppage of medication as it may lead to scarring and delayed healing.
Is laser hair removal permanent
The FDA has cleared laser hair removal, regardless of the laser, as "Permanent Hair Reduction" only. Based on our experience, treated hair follicles usually will not grow back. Given that there are between 500 and 1000 follicles per square cm in our skin, we have no way of knowing if or when a hair follicle may start growing due to stress levels, certain medications, or different hormone levels. In saying this, we have had excellent results with our Elite iQ by Cynosure as we are able to treat a wide range of skin and hair types by utilizing our two lasers.
How many laser treatments will I need
It is important to understand that results may vary depending on the individual's hair type, skin colour, stress level and hormone levels, as well as the intake of certain medications. Keep in mind some individuals will require fewer treatments and some will require more treatments depending on the results desired. It is impossible to determine the exact number of sessions needed to completely remove all the hair from any treated area. Package deals of four sessions are suggested so we are able to monitor your hair loss and better recommend further treatment if necessary.
How does the laser remove hair
The laser emits a beam of light that is attracted to the pigment or melanin in the hair follicle that is in an active growing cycle. Pre-determined pulse duration and energy settings are directed at and absorbed by the hair follicles, disabling the growth of the follicles, resulting in quick, safe, and effective hair removal.
What laser is used at this clinic
At our Laser Hair Removal Clinic we use the Elite iQ Laser System from Cynosure which utilizes two lasers; the 755 Alexandrite and the 1064 YAG wavelengths, the most advanced technology available.
Can anyone have laser hair removal
Yes, the Elite iQ laser can be used to treat patients with all types of skin by providing two different wavelengths. Since you can switch between wavelengths during a single procedure, you can select the most appropriate laser for any given hair or skin type. The second laser allows us to treat patients of darker skin types for excessive hair growth, especially of the face, underarms and bikini lines. Patients with pseudofolliculitis (razor bumps) on the beard, face or neck now have this option to consider.
What if I have grey, white, blonde, red or light fine hair
Since the laser is attracted to the pigment in the hair follicle, these hair colours may not have enough pigment to be successfully treated with the laser. If this applies to you, we may want to test spot the area to see if your hair responds to the laser.
Why do I need a consultation
Because everyone’s skin and hair type are all unique we always do a consultation before beginning any treatments so we can accurately inform the client on what happens at each laser session, how many sessions we recommend, and to answer any other questions clients may have. This helps us to build a relationship with our clients to ensure they feel confident coming to us for their treatments.
What is the advantage of using a laser
Lasers are precise instruments that can be adjusted to the exact parameters that will specifically disable the hair follicle. The laser uses a wide beam that treats many hairs at once instead of treating hair-by-hair like electrolysis. Because of this, large areas such as your legs, arms, or back can be treated in a short period of time. You will see results that last far longer than tweezing, waxing, shaving, chemical depilatories, or other temporary methods.
What happens to the skin after laser treatment
Reddening of the skin is the desired reaction. The redness usually subsides within a few minutes to a few hours and returns to normal. Since laser hair removal is not an invasive procedure, you are able to return to work, and continue with your normal daily activities immediately following treatment, though we would recommend no activities that would produce perspiration for 24 hours. A good sunscreen is always recommended following your treatments.
Can I get more than one thing treated in one session
Yes we can perform multiple procedures on the same client during the same visit because the Elite iQ has two lasers making it versatile for usage on different body part areas and all skin types.
How long do I have to wait in between treatments
The length of time in between treatments depends on the area being treated. For facial area hair removal we have the client come every 4 weeks, however with all other areas it is 6-8 weeks between treatments.
What does the laser treatment feel like
The treatment does have a slight prickly or stinging sensation. Since every person's level of sensitivity is different and treatment areas may vary, a topical numbing cream is available. For added comfort our laser has a built in chiller which cools the skin during the treatment.
What do I need to do before coming in for laser hair removal
We have pre/post care instructions we have everyone follow prior to treatments which you can read here.
What to expect after laser treatment
After your initial treatment, you should enjoy a significant reduction of hair. However, it will take 2-4 weeks for the treated hair to push its way to the surface and fall out. With each treatment, the hair in the active growing phase will be effectively treated. A follow-up appointment is scheduled 4-8 weeks after each treatment allowing dormant hair time to reach the surface. With that in mind, remember the importance of maintaining your follow up appointments.
Who does the treatments, is there a doctor
We have a trained technician on staff, which performs all the consultations and treatments. With laser hair removal it is not required that a doctor be on staff.
Can I wax or pluck unwanted hair in between treatments
No. We ask that you do not wax, pluck or tweeze before and between appointments because in order for the laser to work optimally it needs to be able to have a follicle to target. With laser hair removal, we ask that you shave or trim the day before the appointment and in between sessions.
What is the difference between Laser Hair Removal and IPL Permanent Hair Reduction
There are many people, including industry professionals who believe that laser hair removal and IPL (intense pulsed light) hair reduction are one and the same. This is not correct and the difference in hair removal treatment comfort and effectiveness can be quite significant.
The key difference is that laser hair removal uses a single wavelength of light whereas IPL hair reduction is broadband light with UV filtered out. Because of this laser hair removal is highly targeted to just one chomophore (colour pigment or structure) in the skin and performs a very specific treatment.
The specificity of laser hair removal means that treatments are generally more comfortable and you require less treatments to achieve permanent hair reduction. And because the laser hair removal is highly targeted at one chromophore there is less risk to the surrounding tissue.
