Laser Hair removal, Now is the time!
Laser Hair Removal
laser Hair Removal can be one of the most satisfying, salon treatments one can have. At Blue water Spa we have numerous patients who swear that this was the best thing they have ever done, making their lives easier, saving them from embarrassment, making them feel better about themselves.
Advice to clients wanting to go the hair removal route: Always do your research properly, see different clinics, therapists and maybe even have a test area done. Always make an informed decision and never be bullied by clever sales consultants and advertising.
What is laser hair removal? Laser is used damage the hair follicle, preventing further hair growth. Lasers target dark, thick hairs best, and the hairs need to be in the anagen phase of growth. As hairs pass through three different stages of growth, some may not be in the anagen phase at the time of treatment, which is why multiple treatments are needed.
The laser emits a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin, to the hair follicle, where it is absorbed. Upon absorption, the laser energy is transformed into heat, which disables the follicle.
What is the difference between laser and IPL? A Laser has an exact wavelength. An IPL (Intense pulsed light) does not have an exact target (wavelength) it uses a broad band of light somewhere between x and y; it is therefore ‘hit and miss’ as it is not predictable IPLs produce a wide bandwidth of light that can heat up all of the surrounding tissue, making it less effective in disabling hair and putting the patient at a higher risk for burns, especially on darker skin).
Blue Water Spa does not recommend the use of IPL systems!
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for laser hair removal? Anyone looking to permanently remove/reduce hair in an area is a candidate. Generally speaking, white, brown, black, male, female – if you are concerned about unwanted dark hairs, you are probably a candidate for laser hair removal. Other factors can influence the treatment process, but these are generally best evaluated and discussed in person.
What body areas can be treated? Because of the safe cooling features of our lasers, just about any area on the body can be treated. This includes such sensitive areas as the lip, ears, nose, and groin area. The only areas that cannot be treated are those covered with a tattoo or permanent makeup, and the eyelid, due to sensitivity of the eyes to laser light.
How long does it take? Each laser pulse treats about a half inch area, which can contain ten or more hairs. The amount of time needed depends on the size of the area to be treated. The lip usually takes less than one minute; other areas, such as the leg, may take significantly longer. We normally advise that 6-10 treatments are needed for a 75-90% reduction in hair growth.
How effective is it? Most people are thrilled with the result (often even after only one treatment) and remaining hairs tend to be much lighter, softer, and finer.
What should I expect? Your laser therapist will first cool the area to be treated. She will give you a pair of goggles to protect your eyes. Then she will move the laser slowly over the area. It will be a bit painful, but manageable, and it’s over quickly. Initially, you will need to return every 6 weeks until the hair growth slows down, then every 8 weeks. You may be red and sensitive over the area for a day or two, and may have small raised bumps that usually settle quickly.