Laser Hair Removal

How does laser hair removal work?

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) systems release precisely controlled strong pulses of filtered light that is selectively absorbed by melanin, the pigment in the hair follicle. The light is then converted into heat (photothermolysis), cauterising and effectively destroying the hair follicle, without damaging the surrounding cells. Over a course of treatments, this impairs the follicle’s ability to grow resulting in progressive hair reduction.

Why is laser hair removal the best solution and what are the benefits?

Simply it is the easiest method of permanent hair removal. Say goodbye to ingrown hairs, skin rashes, razor burns and painful waxing and electrolysis! Clinical studies show that it is the most effective and permanent method of simultaneously destroying hundreds of hair follicles and compared to other methods it is more cost effective.

At Zap Laser Clinic we only use the best technology available for hair removal, offering outstanding results for all skin types and most hair colours for both male and female clients.

Can all hair be treated?

Best results are often achieved with clients who have fair skin and dark hair due to the higher concentration of melanin (pigment). Fair hair contains less melanin and so is harder to treat and grey/white hair has no melanin so is not suitable for treatment. Hair on all parts of the body can be treated except inside the ear or nose cavities and within the eye orbit.

How is the treatment carried out?

Firstly the client may be asked to remove any make-up or deodorant in the area and put on the protective eyewear. Secondly a thin layer of gel is applied to the treatment area to cool the area and to guide the hand piece (IPL only). The laser or IPL hand piece is then placed on the skin and a short pulse of light is released, targeting multiple follicles simultaneously. The hand piece is then moved to the neighbouring area of skin and the process is repeated until the entire area is treated. Some clients may notice a smell of singeing hair at this stage. Once complete, the gel is removed and the area dabbed dry. A soothing aloe vera gel is then applied to the treatment area and it is recommended that further applications are used at home, together with an SPF 30.

Before Treatment - Courtesy of Gillian Hart

How does the treatment feel?

Most clients describe the sensation as “a flick of an elastic band” or “a hot teaspoon” but that it is momentary and acceptable. No anaesthesia is required and it is certainly a lot less painful than other methods of hair removal such as waxing and electrolysis.

What will I see after the treatment?

Some clients will experience a temporary reddening of the skin and a red ring around each follicle for a few minutes after treatment, both of which are perfectly normal. The hair follicles are damaged by heat but the hairs remain in the follicles. The dead hairs shed after 1 to 3 weeks post treatment as the epidermis renews. During this period, the hairs will seem to ‘grow’ as they are pushed out by the new epidermis. Once shedding has occurred, the hairs grow back slower, softer and finer but this is more apparent as you progress through your course of treatment.

Are there any side effects?

As mentioned, the skin may be red for a few minutes up to a few days, but for the majority of clients, there will be no immediate sign of having had a treatment. Adverse reactions are rare, but may include a small blister or temporary lightening or darkening of the skin

How long does each treatment take?

Treatments can take as little as 5 minutes for a small area, for example the upper lip, or up to 1 hour if treating a large area such as the back or the legs. Depending on the area being treated, your subsequent treatment will be booked approximately 4 to 6 weeks later.

After 3 Treatments - Courtesy of Gillian Hart

How many treatments are necessary?

Hair grows in 3 stages: active, transitional and resting and it is only in the active stage that laser hair removal is effective, therefore multiple treatments are needed. Many factors such as medication, hormones and ethnicity influence the hair growth and the hair colour and texture, skin type and the area being treated all play a part in the clinic result. We are unable to predict or guarantee how many treatments will be needed, but an average of 6 treatments is required for the body and 9 for the face.

How do I prepare for treatment?

A consultation is conducted in which a medical history is taken to confirm suitability for treatment and to ask any questions. Once written consent is obtained, a patch test is performed in the area and assuming you have no adverse reaction, treatment can commence after 48 hours. Clients are asked to shave or cut the hairs in the treatment area 24 to 48 hours prior to each treatment. Plucking, waxing, bleaching or the use of depilatory creams is not allowed if you require laser hair removal to be successful. Clients also need to ensure that they regularly apply an SPF 30+ sunblock to prevent burning or pigmentation changes. If a client has an active tan, treatment will be refused.

Am I suitable for treatment?

With the Lumina, we can treat all skin types, both male and female however there are some medical conditions where it is advisable not to receive treatment eg during pregnancy and when taking some medications which are photo-sensitive. If you are unsure, please contact Zap Laser Clinic for further advice.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

After a course of approximately 6 to 12 treatments with the Lumina system, a client should expect to see an 80% reduction of pigmented hairs. Some clients with an underlying medical condition eg Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, may require a maintenance course and from time to time some clients may require a “top up”. Typically with females as hormones change eg with pregnancy or menopause, new hair growth may be stimulated.

Is laser hair removal safe?

Yes is the simple answer ! Laser hair removal treatments are non-invasive and the light emitted is perfectly safe and is not hazardous to your health. The Lumina IPL & Laser System from Lyn ton Lasers has been manufactured and tested in the UK, has been CE mark ed and is approved by the US Federal Drug Administration. Finally, Zap Laser Clinic is registered and inspected annually by the Care Quality Commission to ensure it fulfils its legal requirements as set out in the Care Standards Act 2000.

What are the costs likely to be?

Firstly do not be put off by the cost! In the short term, laser hair removal may be more expensive than you think, but in the longer term it is more cost effective and you could be saving yourself £100s if not £1000s! For an idea of prices, see our price guide or for a more specific cost, please contact Zap Laser Clinic and book a FREE no obligation consultation and your practitioner will be happy to advise you.

What do I do next?

Contact Zap Laser Clinic on (0118) 9331212 for further information or to book a FREE no obligation consultation. Alternatively, complete the consultation request to send an e-mail