Everything about Laser Hair Removal at Skin Suite in Winnipeg

Feb. 14

Laser hair removal is a safe and effective treatment for unwanted hair on the body and face. Patients will typically require 6-8 treatments depending on hair thickness, the area to be treated, and the hair's growth cycle. Immediately following the treatment the area may appear slightly red and swollen and will subside shortly after with minimal to no downtime. Treatments will be 8-10 weeks between sessions to allow the hair to complete a full hair growth cycle. Treatments are most successful when the hair is in the “Active Growth Phase”. As all hairs are in various phases of growth successive treatments spaced apart 8-10 weeks will allow for best results. This targets the hair follicles and cuts off the blood supply to that hair bulb hence not allowing any further growth and closing the pore for that follicle. Results are smaller pores, smoother softer skin and hair free, care free!

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses laser light to destroy hair follicles, which slows down hair growth. The laser light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, causing the hair to heat up and destroy the follicle. The procedure is performed by a trained and knowledgeable laser specialist and is a safe and effective treatment for removing unwanted hair on various parts of the body, including the face, legs, arms, underarms, and bikini area. It typically requires several sessions to achieve the desired results, as not all hair follicles are in the same stage of growth at the same time. The number of treatments needed can vary depending on the individual and the area being treated.

How to prepare for laser hair removal treatments prior to coming in for a session.

Steps to follow:

Avoid sun exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight, including tanning beds, for at least two weeks before and after each treatment. Laser treatments may cause photosensitivity.
Shave the area: Shave the area to be treated the day before your appointment. Do not use any creams, lotions, or other hair removal methods other than a razor to remove the hair from the surface only hence keeping the root intact.
Avoid certain medications: Inform the technician if you are taking any medications, that may be photosensitive or blood thinners, that may affect skin sensitivity.
Wear comfortable clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment that allows easy access to the area to be treated.
Avoid deodorants and lotions: Do not apply deodorants, lotions, or creams to the area to be treated before your appointment.

For best results follow these instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you have prior to the procedure. By following these steps, you can help ensure safe & effective laser hair removal treatment.

The difference between the 1064 ND YAG laser and IPL

1064 ND YAG laser and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) are two popular types of laser treatments used for hair removal, pigment, & vascular structures. However, they have some important differences:

Wavelength:

The 1064 ND YAG laser uses a single wavelength of light (1064 nm) that is absorbed by melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle.
IPL, on the other hand, uses a broad spectrum of light that is absorbed by multiple chromophores (pigment-absorbing molecules) in the skin.
Depth of penetration: The 1064 ND YAG laser has a deeper penetration depth and is better suited for treating deeper structures, as the hair follicles.
While IPL has a shallower penetration depth and is better suited for treating superficial structures, such as pigmented or vascular lesions, and finer hairs.
Skin cooling: The 1064 ND YAG laser has a cooling device, to protect the skin from heat damage. IPL does not usually require cooling, as the energy levels are lower and the pulse duration is shorter; however this is a feature that comes with most handpieces.
Skin type: The 1064 ND YAG laser is often used on darker skin types, as it has a lower risk of causing pigmentation changes. IPL is often used on lighter skin types that are more favorable for this treatment.
Effectiveness: The effectiveness of both laser types can vary depending on the individual, the area being treated, and the specific machine being used. Both lasers have been shown to be effective for hair removal, but the 1064 ND YAG laser may be more effective for treating deeper hair follicles, while IPL may be more effective for treating shallow or fine hair.

Ultimately, the choice between 1064 ND YAG laser and IPL will depend on individual needs and preferences, as well as the recommendations of a qualified laser specialist.

How long between Laser Hair Removal sessions?

The time frame between laser hair removal sessions depends on several factors, including the individual's hair growth cycle, the area being treated, and the specific laser used. Typically, most people will require 4-6 laser hair removal sessions, spaced 8-10 weeks apart. This allows for adequate time for the hair follicles to enter the growth phase, making them more susceptible to laser treatment.

It's important to note that the time frame between treatments may vary from person to person and can be influenced by several factors, such as hormonal changes, medications, and hair growth patterns. Your laser specialist will be able to provide more specific recommendations based on your individual needs and goals.

It's also important to note that maintenance treatments may be necessary to maintain the results of laser hair removal. The frequency of these maintenance treatments will depend on individual factors and the rate of hair growth.