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Laser Hair Removal

How does Laser Hair Removal work?

To perform light-based hair removal, a large rectangular window emitting broad-spectrum light is applied to the surface of the skin. The energy travels harmlessly through the epidermis and dermis until it strikes the hair follicle, which contains a dense, melanin-rich hair shaft

and bulb. The dark-colored melanin absorbs the light and rises quickly in temperature, destroying the hair-producing cells surrounding the follicle. Because the heat is not sustained, however, no damage occurs outside the follicle area.

Alma Lasers' unique IN-Motion technology combines concurrent cooling with a gradual thermal rise to the target's therapeutic temperature, without the risk of injury and with much less pain for the patient. This is in contrast to the high peak energies used in traditional photoepilation technology that require high cooling before, during and after each pulse, and require that the hand piece remain stationary during the energy delivery. The sweeping technique of IN-Motion™ technology enables continuous administration in a larger treatment area for increased comfort and fewer missed spots.

What do I need to know prior to treatment?

We ask that you refrain from tweezing, waxing, or threading prior to treatment. You can always shave between laser hair removal treatments. In fact, we ask that you shave the area before your appointment. Laser hair removal works best if there is not any surface hair. We only need the roots in place. We also ask that you refrain from tanning. Hair removal treatment only targets dark hairs and the best results occur when there is greater contrast between skin and hair color. Having tan skin also makes you more prone to any of the possible side effects of laser hair removal. For that reason, we ask that you allow your tan to fade before a laser hair removal treatment and that you not get UV exposure for three days after a laser hair removal treatment. The term ‘tanning’ includes any treatment that darkens your skin including the sun, tanning beds, bronzing beds, spray on tans, or self tanning lotions.

What can I expect during the procedure?

The treatment will start by preparing the skin with a cool gel. A hand piece will emit gentle pulses of light energy. As the pulsing occurs, you may experience a mild sensation, but any discomfort will go away momentarily. Most treatment take only minutes. 

Is it painful?

We typically do not use topical anesthetics (numbing creams) for laser hair removal. Our laser is comfortable enough it is not necessary. 

What can I expect after the treatment?

Immediately after treatment you might experience some redness and bumping. This usually fades quickly. Most people are completely symptom free.

How many treatments will I need?

A series of treatments are required in order to achieve optimal results. The number of treatments needed will vary based on each individual's skin type, hair color, and texture. Usually, at least six treatments are needed. Hormone induced hair growth is resistant and may require more sessions along with medical treatment for the underlying condition.

Will the hair grow back?

The effectiveness of laser hair removal depends on skin type, hair type and pigment. These are all factors that can determine the results for a person. Typically the hair that you will be left with after a series of laser hair removal treatments will be hair that is too fine and light in color to be effected by the laser hair removal treatment. We recommend a follow up or "touch up" treatment every so often to keep the area free from hair. 

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