1. What is the difference between Laser and IPL (Intense Pulse Light)?
Laser is an intense beam of light energy, which at different wavelengths, safely removes unwanted hair. The laser is absorbed by the melanin (which gives our hair and skin its colour).
The laser energy is converted into heat, safely destroying the hair follicle and leaving the surrounding skin and delicate pores unaffected. The laser beam cannot penetrate past the dermis (second layer of skin).The Alexandrite hair removal laser beam, which is generated from our CANDELA GentleLASE machine, is unable to reach any internal organs and is therefore completely safe.
After each treatment, hair will grow back lighter and finer leaving the skin smooth and hair free for up to 6 weeks.
An intense pulse light or IPL machine operates on broad light spectrum, sending out multiple wavelengths . IPL cannot isolate the exact wavelength, or colour of light, necessary to accurately and safely destroy the hair follicle.
IPLs are generally cheaper devices and are used for various skin procedures first and foremost, with hair removal as an afterthought. Most clinics do not use a true laser for hair removal, and try to claim that IPL is an equal substitute.
At Bay Laser Clinic, we use a medical grade, FDA approved Alexandrite laser which delivers superior and effective results. This authentic laser produces a stable, true, continuous output of only one particular wavelength, which achieves a highly selective effect on the relevant biological tissue in the hair follicle. This form of laser is absolutely precise.
2. Who is an ideal candidate for Laser Hair Removal ?
Skin types are classified by a system called the Fitzpatrick Skin Type which classifies skin,TYPE I - TYPE VI.
Laser works best on pale skin (TYPE I - TYPE IV) and dark coarse hair. The closer you are to this combination (i.e. the lighter the skin and the more coarse and dark the hair), the better the results will generally be.
Bay Laser Clinic is an approved stockist of Dermalogica's skin lightening range which helps prepare the skin to achieve the best results.
3. Does it hurt ?
Tolerance of pain varies from one person to the next. Some clients describe the sensation as warm and tingling likened to the feeling one has after a day on the beach. Others compare the feeling to a rubber band flicking the skin.
The Candela GentleLASE & laser machine & has a built in dynamic cooling device. This freezes the tissue around the follicle instantly and allows the laser to penetrate the skin without damage, pain or undue discomfort. Bay Laser Clinic also offers an additional cooling system for your further comfort.
4. How many treatments will I need ?
Each individual differs according to skin and hair colour and the density of their hair. The lighter the skin and darker the hair, the better the results will be. On average 10-15 treatments are required.
Treatments should be every 4-6 weeks. It is extremely important to keep to this timetable to take advantage of the Anagen (active) phase of the hair growth cycle to achieve the best results.
5. Does sun exposure affect my treatments ?
Since tanning takes place by accumulation of pigment (melanin) in the skin, it is also important to avoid tanning (sun, solarium or self tanning cream) for approximately 3-4 weeks before and during the treatment period. It is also recommended to limit sun exposure and a suitable sun block (minimum SPF 30) should be applied daily.
6. Does the client need to shave prior treatment ?
Hairs should be 1-2mm long when the client comes in for treatment so it is possible to mark the treatment area therefore the client should shave the area to be treated 2-3 days before the treatment.
7. Why is Laser Hair removal a great option for Men ?
Laser Hair Removal can certainly be beneficial for men and is not purely the domain of women with hair removal for men becoming very common.
For a hair removal treatment that is more successful and which results in no ingrown hairs, laser hair removal for men is a far better option than other hair removal treatments. Lasers have none of the negative effects such as skin irritation, ingrown hairs, allergies and burning.
There are many solutions that are available but not all are practical.Tweezing or waxing are impractical and often result in unattractive breakouts or infections. Shaving leads to the quick reappearance of stubble.
One of the benefits of laser hair removal for men is its ability to treat large areas, such as excessive back or chest hair relatively quickly with longer lasting result
8. How does the initial consultation work ?
It is a free consultation with one of our trained laser therapists who will explain the process and answer any questions that you may have.
9. How long does it take ?
APPROXIMATE TIMES FOR LASER HAIR REMOVAL (Women)
Chin & upper lip 5 mins
Underarms & bikini line 5 mins
Underarms & Brazilian 10 mins
Face 5-10 mins
Arms 20 -30 mins
Full legs 50-60 mins
Half legs 30 mins
APPROXIMATE TIMES FOR LASER HAIR REMOVAL (Men)
Chest 30-40 mins
Neck 5 mins
Back 40-50 mins
Arms 30 -40 mins
Cheeks 5 mins
Legs 40-60 mins
* All these depend on the hair type and density of hair.
10. What does it cost ?
We charge per body part treated. Please see pricing for men and women.
11. Who is treating me ?
Treatments are performed by certified Laser Hair Removal Therapist