Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a laser — an intense, pulsating beam of light — to remove unwanted hair. During laser hair removal, a laser beam passes through the skin to an individual hair follicle. The intense heat of the laser damages the hair follicle, which inhibits future hair growth.

Hair color and skin type influence the success of laser hair removal. Laser hair removal isn't generally effective for white, gray, red or blond hair — although treatment options for lighter hair continue to be investigated.

For example, laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair because the laser beam targets the pigment (melanin) in the hair. However, advances in technology have made laser hair removal an option for people who have darker skin.

If the laser is done on upper lip, chin or any area on the face it should be spaced out 4-6 weeks apart. For the body areas, it should be repeated every 8-10 weeks. Facial hair grows faster than lower body hair and it should be done more often. In order for the laser to be effective, you should try to keep up with your appointments and follow the technician's recommendations for the length of time between your treatments.

Laser Hair Removal packages available on our specials page!

*Small area: upper lip, chin, sideburns

*Medium area: bikini, underarms, trail from belly button to pubic, man's neck

Although laser hair removal effectively slows hair growth, it doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal. It typically takes several laser hair removal treatments to provide an extended hair-free period. Periodic maintenance treatments might be needed as well. Some hair could be resistant to the laser treatment or grow again after treatment — although the new hair growth might be finer and lighter in color.

 The most common side effects of laser hair removal include:

• Skin irritation. Temporary discomfort, redness and swelling are possible after laser hair removal. Any signs and symptoms typically disappear within several hours.
• Pigment changes. Laser hair removal might darken or lighten the affected skin, usually temporarily. Skin lightening primarily affects those who have darker skin, especially if an incorrect laser is used at an incorrect setting.

Rarely, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring or other changes in skin texture.