How does the laser work?

The laser emits a beam of light onto the skin, which is absorbed by melanin – pigmentation – in the hair follicle.  This light absorption creates thermal energy, or heat, which kills the hair.  The dead hair then falls out within 10-20 days after treatment.  Hair that does not have any pigmentation in it (white, fair, blonde, grey) cannot be ‘seen’ by the laser and consequently will not be treated.

Which lasers do you use and why?

We only use the Candela GentleMax Pro, a combined Alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser. These lasers have proven over many years to be the most effective at hair removal, and are widely recognised as being among the best hair removal lasers on the market. The GentleMax Pro is also capable of providing hair removal for patients with any skin type, ranging from light to dark, something that cannot be done using a stand-alone Alexandrite laser.

Can laser treatment damage my skin?
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive treatment.  The energy from a laser is non-ionising, unlike sun beds and x-rays which are ionising and have the potential to cause permanent changes to the skin.  Your therapist will perform a spot test to determine how well your hair and skin responds, the choose the correct settings for you.

It is important that you do not have a suntan whilst being treated, as the laser could target the pigmentation on the skin as well as the pigmentation in the hair.

Can the laser treat all skin types?
Yes. This is one of the main advantages of using the Candela GentleMax Pro. 

Why will I need more than one treatment?
The laser will only be effective on actively growing hairs.  At any given time, you have many hair follicles that are dormant or resting.  As these follicles begin actively growing, they too will need treating.

How many treatments will I need to achieve satisfactory hair removal?
The number of treatments needed will depend on the area to be treated, your hair growth cycles, and your own expectations - on average treatment on the body requires 6 appointments. Facial treamtents may require more.

How long does a treatment take?
For facial treatments we generally book out half an hour - whilst the treatment itself can be done in as little as 5 minutes, this additional time allows us to discuss progress and ensure our client's comfort. We will reserve more time for longer treatments such as a full leg treatment; your therapist will discuss timings with you during your consultation to ensure you continue to get a service that is suited to your treatment needs.

How often will I need treatments?
This varies since each individual’s hair grows at different rates.  Treatments for the body are usually spaced about 3 months apart, facial treatments are generally 6 weeks apart.

Does it hurt?
The majority of clients experience a little discomfort but tolerate the treatment well - we've never been unable to complete a treatment due to pain. Most clients state it is not as painful as waxing, however, as you would expect, some areas can be more sensitive than others.

Can I have a topical analgesia?
No. Topical analgesia can reduce the efficacy of treatment by contracting the blood vessels and there have been isolated cases of topical analgesia entering the bloodstream and causing fatalities.  Oral analgesia can be taken if necessary, but is rarely needed. 

How can I find out more?
Simply contact us for a consultation and test patch.  There is no charge for this appointment and no obligation to return to us.

Treating Male Clients

Unfortunately, treating male clients is not as easy as treating female clients.  This is due in part to the amount of male hormones present in the body which are responsible for the production of hair.

Whilst we tell female clients to expect, on average, 6 treatments, we advise male clients to budget for, on average, 10.  We have seen excellent results in fewer appointments, but these are the exception rather than the rule.