Laser Hair Removal

With 20 years of laser hair removal experience to her name, Rachael sure knows a thing or two about laser hair removal. We use the Candela Gentlelase (The most trusted laser worldwide). We take no risks when it comes to laser, following settings to a tee to ensure safe but efficient results. We pride ourselves on thorough laser hair removal treatments and enjoy nothing more then helping you regain back your confidence.

 

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Q & A

WHAT IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL?

Laser hair removal is simply a treatment that removes hair from the face or body utilising light energy. Laser hair removal heats up the follicle of the hair in the aim to remove it and disable it from producing another hair.

HOW DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORK ?

Hair follicles contains a certain amount of pigment cells. These cells continually produce a chemical called melanin. Melanin gives hair its colour whether it be brown, red, blonde, red or black. The energy that is emitted from a laser machine is attracted to melanin. The energy directed from the handpiece is absorbed by the hair follicle, momentarily heating it up to 70 degrees celcius which is the temperature needed for destruction of the hair follicle and to also inhibit the hair to regrow. The courser the hair and the darker the hair, the more melanin that is present and thus will achieve better results then a patient that is wanting to treat hair that is fine or blonde. White, Grey or red hairs have either no melanin or such low levels that laser hair removal is generally ineffective.

Hair grows in cycles and this will partly determine the amount of treatments you may require. The 3 stages of growth are called anagen, catagen and telogen.  Hairs in the anagen growth cycle are the only hairs  that are effectively treated during your hair removal treatment.  It is impossible to distinguish what hairs are in what cycle at any one time so this is the reason why a course of treatments is needed and why your technician will recommend you return every 4-8 weeks.

Other factors that will influence the effectiveness of your treatment include ethnicity, age, weight, hormones, medication, diet, metabolism and genetics. In addition to this, the location, thickness and resilience of the hair will also affect hair growth.

LASER Vs IPL

With so many machines out on the market today it is hard to distinguish fact from fiction. Often websites have conflicting information written in medical terms that make it impossible to understand. Let me try to explain the real difference for you to help u make an educated decision as to what laser is best for you. Before embarking on your laser hair removal experience you should be aware of the difference between LASER and IPL as this will ultimately determine the results you can achieve. Laser hair removal and IPL treatments are VERY DIFFERENT.

Lasers are single wavelength devices meaning the light that is emitted is attracted to the hair. In the case of laser hair removal, the light is attracted to the melanin which is the colour found in the hair and via heat energy destroys and breaks down the root of the hair ultimately ending in the long-term removal of unwanted body or facial hair. LASER energy is soley attracted to the hairs whilst the remaining areas such as the skin, collagen, vascular network etc remain relatively untouched. It can therefore be concluded that laser hair removal energy is nearly 100% targeted to the hair and when you want to remove hair as your sole purpose you ultimately want the hair to absorb the energy and not waste it on other structures in the skin.

Intense pulse light commonly referred to as IPL, expose the client to a wider spectrum of wavelengths. Put simply, when IPL systems are used, the light that is emitted is not only absorbed by the hair but also skin structures such as skin, capillaries, collagen, elastin and pigmentation. IPL exposes the patient to unnecessary  and/or ineffective wavelengths not needed for Laser Hair removal. The reason this is not ideal is because the energy that is emitted from the IPL technology means that the energy is being shared between the hair and other skin structures. In the purpose of removing hair, you simply what the energy to 100% attracted to the hair and not wasted on other structures of the skin.

WHAT LASER DO WE USE AT BEAUTY BY RACHAEL-LEE

We use the Candela GentleLase which is a medical grade laser. It is FDA approved and is the most trusted name in the industry. It is classed as an alexandrite Laser and has a wavelength of 755 nanometres. This precise wavelength will ensure maximum attraction of energy to the hair therefore achieving maximum effectiveness in permanent hair reduction. We also use a zimmer machine that temporarily cools the skin for minimal discomfort and side effects. Despite this specific brand of laser now being a popular choice amongst many beauty salons and laser clinics across Sydney, it takes skill and experience to operate this sophisticated piece of machinery to deliver superior results. I bring to the table 20 years of solid laser hair removal experience. l

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

  • Help control the prevalence or ongoing persistence of ingrown hairs for good thereby helping to control scars from ingrown.
  • Helps build confidence by removing stubble and dark shadows that can be a common problem for those that shave and wax.
  • Will help you to save money long-term
  • Will help save you valuable time long-term
  • Control medical skin conditions such as Keratosis Pilaris, Folliculitis and Pseudofolliculitis Barbae
  • Is more comfortable to tolerate then other methods of hair removal.

 

HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO I GENERALLY NEED?

There are so many variables that will influence how many treatments you will need. As a general rule of thumb most clients require between 10 -20 treatments for ultimate results. Please remember that this is a guide only and certain hair types and specific areas on the body may require additional treatments.

HOW OFTEN ARE MY LASER HAIR REMOVAL TREATMENTS?

Laser hair removal treatments are spaced generally between 4 and 8 weeks apart. There are many factors that will influence interval times between treatments. These include areas being treated (facial hair often requires treatments closer together), hormones, genetics, medication, sex of the client and amount of treatments already completed.

Shedding of all hair should be expected within 2 – 3 weeks of treatment. If this doesn’t occur then either the hair was likely to be missed, setting was inappropriate or possibly that the hair does not have enough colour to respond to treatment.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

Each area requires a varying amount of time. The Candela GentleLase has a pulse rate of 1.5 pulses per second ensuring a very fast treatment.  A lip or underarm treatment takes seconds to complete whilst a full leg treatment can take up to 40 minutes on your first visit. Laser hair removal is in most cases much quicker then waxing.

IS IT PAINFUL?

Good question, but the answer is definitely NO! Laser hair removal is not painful. The Candela Gentlelase machine that we use, has a connected cooling machine that blows cool hair onto the area that is being treated. Some clients feel nothing at all and say it feels like cool air being spray on the skin. Other clients liken it to a small rubber band being flicked against the skin. In my 20 years of laser hair removal experience i have never had a client not return because of discomfort. I would say 99% of clients prefer laser over waxing. The more treatments you complete the easier it gets because essentially you have less hair and therefore less heat being absorbed into the hair follicle. Its true that the first treatment has a little more spice but it certainly gets easier. Trust me  - its not painful. In the instance that you have a very low tolerance to discomfort, EMLA cream is advised to be applied 1 hour before your laser treatment or advise your therapist of your low tolerance level and we can modify the setting and take things ultra slow.

AM I A CANDIDATE FOR LASER HAIR REMOVAL?

The ideal candidate for laser is a client that presents with dark hair and fair skin. This client could realistically achieve up to 97% reduction of hair after completion of their laser hair removal course of treatments.  For those that have lighter hair or finer hair, reductions may vary between 20% and 80% and more frequent maintenance treatments may be required. For a client that presents with darker skin, treatments can be performed, but additional treatments may be required due to the lower settings chosen to protect the skin form unwanted side effects.

Clients  with blonde, grey, white or red and ginger hairs are not advised to have treatments as the lack of melanin in the hair will result in poor results or no result at all. If you are unsure of whether you are a candidate for laser hair removal or not, please contact the salon for free consultation and assessment or you can email us at info@beautybyrachaellee.com.au

Your skin type will also determine whether you can have laser hair removal. The Fitzpatrick scale is a tool used by experienced and well trained laser practitioners to determine laser suitability for each client. The Fitzpatrick scale is a classification system used for skin typing and is based on a persons response to sun exposure in terms of sensitivity to burning and tanning.  Most skin types can be treated with minimal risk, but patch testing will be performed and extreme caution applied, when treating skin types V.  In the event that your skin is too dark, treatment may be refused as to protect your skin form unwanted side effects. Unfortunately we don’t treat any higher then fitzpatrick 5.

IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL PERMANENT?

Laser machines have been around for some time now. They disable hair permanently as long as the right type of hair is treated with the correct settings. It is however more of a case of reduction rather them removal. With many clients achieving up to 97% reductions of hair, really fine or light coloured hairs may be resilient to treatment and sometimes dormant hairs may grow during stages of hormonal fluctuations. 

We find these areas subject to getting more likely permanent results. If its not listed it may mean that permanent results will not be experienced:

  • Full leg
  • Full arm
  • Bikini
  • Brazilian
  • Underarm
  • Lip
  • Navel
  • Anus

ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH LASER?

Laser hair removal is a relatively safe treatment but side effects despite rare, can happen. 

Common side effects include:

  • mild redness
  • follicular oedema (goose bump like appearance) for up to 24 hours after treatment
  • mild sunburn like feeling  that lasts up to 48 hours.
  • Some clients experience slightly itchy skin for 3 days post treatment. This irritation is rare and if it does occur will generally only affect areas such as lower half leg and lower half arm.

Extremely rare side-effects include:

  • Scarring. This is vary rare and if it does occur will nearly always be with a client that has very dark skin. If the required precautions are followed, such as avoiding sun exposure, tanning too close to your appointment, using tyrosinase inhibitors and restricting use of some medications, unwanted side effects generally don’t occur.
  • Hypo-Pigmentation. This is when the skin loses colour and shows as white marks on the skin. Again this is very rare and if you experience hypo-pigmentation it may take up to 3-12 months for the skin to regain its natural colour.
  • Hyper-Pigmentation. This is when the skin begins to develop darker brown patches on the skin. It again is rare and will generally correct itself within 12 months with the assistance of lightening agents such as super fade and hydroquinone. The use of LASERAID and adherence to post-care routine will all help to avoid this side-effect.
  • Severe Allergic Reaction. Very hot, itchy, swollen skin with the possible onset of blisters. This allergic reaction is extremely rare however if you develop any signs of this please contact your therapist asap. Medical advice should also be sought after as an Anti-histamines or a steroid injection may need to be administered to help reduce unwanted side effects of this nature.
  • Bacterial or Viral Infection. In very rare circumstances if you are prone to the herpes simplex virus, this treatment may trigger an outbreak particularly on the facial area.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO PRIOR TO A LASER HAIR REMOVAL TREATMENT

  • Avoid sun exposure 2 weeks prior to treatment
  • Avoid waxing, tweezing and bleaching 4 weeks prior to your laser treatment
  • Avoid solarium use 2 weeks prior to treatment
  • Please ensure all makeup is removed prior to treatment
  • Ensure there is no spray tan or self-tan on area you would like treated
  • Ensure you have informed your laser technician of medical conditions and medication that you have are currently taking or recently finished.
  • You must shave the area 1 – 2 days prior to treatment. If you are a female client, please DONT SHAVE facial areas.
  • Avoid the use of deodorants or body moisturisers on area you would like to be treated

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO POST TREATMENT

  • Use LASER AID  2 to 3 days after your treatment. Apply in the morning and in the evening until irritation subsides.
  • Avoid sun exposure 2 weeks after your treatment
  • Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) in between treatments.
  • Sun exposure needs to be limited and common sun safety guidelines needs to be followed to ensure safe and effective treatments.
  • Do not wax OR pluck hair in the area being treated
  • You may shave, trim, use depilatory creams or use clippers between treatments
  • To help the hairs fall out more effectively, exfoliate the area 5 days after your treatment.
  • Please avoid hot showers, excessively strenuous exercise, electric blankets and saunas for up to 48 hours after your treatment
  • You may spray tan after your treatment but try and wait 24 hours after laser

WHEN WILL I START TO SEE RESULTS?

Results will usually be seen within 14 days of treatment. After your laser hair removal treatment the hairs will generally singe right back to the skin level. They continue to grow but very slowly for a period of 7 – 14 days. After this period of time you will notice the hairs will start to fall out and shed from the hair follicle. Results will be seen from the very first treatment. Its a very exciting time when they fall out because you know that some hairs may never grow back ever again. If you suffer persistent ingrown hairs, within 3 months form your first laser hair removal treatment,  you should be ingrown FREE.

WHAT IF I ONLY WANT TO REDUCE THE DENSITY OF HAIR AND NOT COMPLETELY REMOVE IT?

Alot of clients present to u and wish only to reduce the amount of hair rather then remove it completely. In this case i would generally recommend 2 – 4 treatments over a 1 year period to blend the hair and take away its aggressiveness without removing it completely. Its a popular choice for many men treating areas like there arms, face, legs and chest.

CAN I GET LASER HAIR REMOVAL IF IM PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING?

Its a common question asked. I have worked for clinics that have a no go policy and other major clinics that see no harm at all. From my research it seems there is minimal risk but i leave the decision up to you. Speak to your GP, speak to your obstetrician and of course speak to your partner. If you have doubts don’t undertake treatments. I advise you get documentation and clearance from your doctor should you wish to have treatments.

MEDICATIONS THAT CAN PREVENT YOU FROM RECEIVING TREATMENT

Most of the time, any prescribed medications or herbal supplements have no influence on your laser treatment however there are a select few that will affect your treatment and increase risk of unwanted side effects. Roaccutane and Retin_A, and light sensitising medications are the most widely used medications that must not be used in conjunction with hair removal  treatments. Arrange for a free consultation where your highly experienced laser technician will assess you and ask the questions needed to make certain you can start treatments. In rare circumstances, you may not be able to receive treatment until medical clearance is given by a general practitioner.

CAUSES OF EXCESSIVE HAIR GROWTH THAT CAN INFLUENCE TREATMENTS

The following may cause or influence your prevalence of hair:

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Pregnancy
  • Hormonal changes or Imbalances
  • Stress levels
  • Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (POCS)
  • Thyroid problems
  • Natural Aging process
  • Medication or prescriptive drugs  such as the contraceptive pill and steroid use

WHAT AREAS WORK BEST WITH LASER HAIR REMOVAL?

Brazilian, Underarm, Half legs, Full legs, Lower half arms, inside buttocks, lip and navel. These area can achieve up to 97% reduction of hair. All other area can achieve some type of results but often achieve only a reduction. Some can achieve more but results vary.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS DO I NEED?

If you are the right candidate for laser hair removal, the average amount of treatments are as follows:

Face 10-20 (Possible 50% reduction) –

* Touch up treatment every 3-6 months post treatment

Body 10-20 (Possible 97% reduction)

  • Touch up treatment every 6 – 24 months – (Sometimes you’ll never need it again)

*PLEASE NOTE RESULTS VARY FROM PEROSN TO PERSON.

What age can i start laser hair removal?

We all develop hair at different times. If the client is under 18 years old, we ask a parent give consent before treating any minors. We unfortunately will not perform laser hair removal on anyone younger then 18 years old without parental consent.

If you have any questions please email us at info@beautybyrachaellee.com.au

WHAT CONSIDERATIONS DO I NEED TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT IF IM STARTING LASER HAIR REMOVAL UNDER 18 YEARS OLD?

If you have just entered your teen years and starting laser hair removal, its important to understand that the hormonal influence is still quite strong. You may require more treatments then an adult. Often we suggest that if you are very young and starting treatments to not follow the usual 4 week treatment protocol, instead do a treatment every 8 weeks to start to slow down the hair growth, start to get results but go full steam ahead and and embark on treatments every 4 weeks once you are 15 years old or older. This is just a suggestion so minimise the amount of treatments you have to do. Normal protocol can be adhered too if preferred.

DO WE PRICE MATCH OTHER CLINICS?

Unfortunately we don’t have a price match guarantee but we always welcome you asking and showing us the clinics deal. We don’t promise to match it but will always try if we can based on the circumstances on the business at that time.