Laser Hair Removal

Laser energy is absorbed by the pigment in the hair shaft and converted to heat, which disables the follicle's ability to produce new hair. It only works on follicles in their active growth phase, which is why this is always a course and never a single appointment.

Why the spacing matters

At any moment only a portion of the hair in an area is actively growing. The rest is dormant and invisible to the laser. Sessions are spaced four to six weeks apart so that each one catches a different portion of the cycle — which is what makes six to ten sessions the realistic number rather than a sales figure.

Areas differ. Underarms and the bikini line generally respond faster than the face, and hormonally driven facial hair often needs ongoing maintenance regardless of how well the initial course goes.

Before your appointment

Shave the area the day before — the laser needs the follicle intact below the surface and the shaft short above it. Do not wax, thread, pluck or use epilation for four weeks beforehand, because removing the root removes the target.

As with IPL, recently tanned skin is not treated. Sun exposure raises the pigment in the surrounding skin and with it the risk of a burn.