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Laser hair removal facts, efficacy and results

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Kiwi fruit with zip

Are you tired of waking up earlier in the morning than you have to, so you can groom your unwanted hair woes? If you are looking for a more efficient solution for this, laser hair removal could be for you. We perform all types of body hair removal, bikini line, facial hair, under arm and back, and this is suitable for both women and men.

How does it work?

Here at Palm Clinic we use a laser machine called Cutera Cool Glide, for effective hair reduction and it works well for all skin types and tones. This laser operates by producing a single wavelength to precisely target the hair follicle.

The laser uses a beam of light which penetrates the skin, and is absorbed by the pigment colour in the hair, where it is converted to heat. This heat travels down the hair shaft to the hair root, and destroys the hair follicle.

You will be given eye protection as these lasers can be dangerous and the treatment will be performed by a Registered Nurse. The treatment feels like a hot rubber band snapping you and most people are able to tolerate the treatment. It has a cooling system built into it, to provide safe, effective hair reduction.

Laser compared to IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

IPL is far less effective than laser hair removal. Unlike laser treatments which emit a specific wavelength, IPL works like a flash lamp, sending out scattered wavelengths of light, making it less effective in disabling the hair. Therefore, they do not penetrate as deeply, meaning results are limited and generally short lived. They can only be used on pale skin.

Girl having laser treatment

Hair removal for blonde, grey, and red haired people

There is no machine currently available that can remove blonde, grey, white or red hair. This is the holy grail of hair removal, and hopefully the technology will be developed soon.

A little bit about how your hair grows

Firstly, you will need to understand, that one zap will not get rid of the hair forever. Why? Because your hair grows in different stages.

There are three distinct and concurrent stages:

  • Anagen
  • Catagen
  • Telogen

Hair follicle

All three stages occur simultaneously. One strand of hair may be in the Anagen stage, while another in the Telogen phase. Our laser destroys the hair follicle in the Anagen stage, therefore requiring multiple treatments.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies from individual to individual and depends on hormonal growth, but typically, anything from six to ten sessions at monthly intervals. After this you will need a maintenance programme which could be three monthly, six monthly, or yearly depending on your hair growth cycle. You will get more of an idea of your particular growth cycle during the treatment. Think of it like weeding the garden!

How much does it cost?

At Palm Clinic we charge by the time, not the areas. We charge $205 for 15 minutes of treatment. Your appointment will be anywhere from fifteen minutes to an hour. A free consultation with our laser nurses Anita Todd and Rachael Murray will take you through the procedure and give you a treatment plan with costs for laser hair removal.

What to expect after Treatment?

There will be some redness, which will subside within an hour or so. We will apply a cooling gel called Aloe Vera. Your skin may be sensitive for a few days. Typically, the shedding of the treated hairs takes about two to three weeks, these hairs should be allowed to fall out on their own. You must protect your skin from the sun during treatment with an SPF 30 +. Makeup can be applied after the procedure but we do recommend mineral makeup.

Call us for a free no obligation consultation with one of our friendly Nurses today.

Consulatation at Palm Clinic with Dr Sam Dunn

Why Palm Clinic?

Our highly skilled medical team treat you with care and understanding.

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