What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in Canada.  A laser, or concentrated beam of light, is utilized during this procedure to target and remove unwanted hair. During the treatment, the pigments of the targeted hair absorb the laser light, which is converted into heat. This heat energy damages the tube-shaped sacs under the skin that produce the hair strands (also known as hair follicles) and stunts future hair growth.

For men and women seeking a safe, efficient, semi-permanent (65% or more) solution to unwanted hair, investing in a laser hair removal treatment can help save valuable time and money spent on shaving, professional waxing, or fussy at-home waxing attempts. This treatment can also be especially beneficial for people who are prone to uncomfortable ingrown hairs. Laser hair removal is safe for use on all skin types. For your laser hair removal needs, Philosophy Of Beauty is proud to offer Gentle Max Pro, LightSheer and Fotona.

Lasers are perfect for targeting undesirable dark, coarse hairs while keeping skin unharmed. Laser hair removal can be used on any area, but it is common for people to address unwanted hair in the following areas:

• Face (eyebrows, upper lip, chin)
• Legs
• Back
• Shoulders
• Arms
• Underarms
• Bikini Area

GentleMax Pro® laser hair removal (GPro®System) combines a fast 755nm Alexandrite laser with powerful 1064nm Nd: YAG energy. This dual-wavelength system effectively treats skin types 1-6 and is considered pain free due to its cryogen cooling technology. The treatment is fast even on large body areas, thanks to the large spot size of the laser handpiece.

The LightSheer Diode Laser utilizes an 810-nanometer laser that can safely treat skin types 1-3. This system comes with ChillTip handpiece to cool the skin of the treatment area so that you do not need to sacrifice comfort for effectiveness.

Fotona laser systems offer high-performance, safe FRAC3 technology to specifically target hair follicles with both selective and homogenous photothermolysis to leave the surrounding tissues unaffected. In the past, laser hair removal was not as effective for people with deeper skin tones. Fotona lasers are the choice to treat all skin types effectively and safely.

Depending on the person, laser hair removal may take multiple sessions to yield what is called semi-permanent hair removal of an area. Laser hair removal is also more effective when targeting darker, more pigmented hair. If you want to target blonde, red, white, or gray hair, these less-pigmented hair colors may not absorb light as well. For more information about reasonable expectations regarding your needs and aesthetic goals, speak to your aesthetic provider during your consultation at Philosophy Of Beauty.

If you are planning on getting a laser hair removal treatment, here are some helpful guidelines to ensure effectiveness:

1. Avoid tweezing, waxing, or using electrolysis on the area for at least six weeks prior to your appointment. This will ensure that the laser can efficiently target the roots of the hairs you want removed.
2. Avoid sun exposure for six weeks before your treatment, and six weeks after your treatment as well. Sun exposure can make laser hair removal more difficult. After laser treatment, staying out of the sun can prevent unwanted complications.

It is important to follow your aesthetic provider’s aftercare instructions. Below are some general guidelines so you know what to expect afterward:

1. As mentioned above, avoid sunlight and use of indoor tanning equipment for six weeks. Remember to wear sunscreen over the treated area for this time period, as it can prevent temporary changes to the color of your treated skin from sun exposure.
2. Redness and swelling like that of a mild sunburn in the treated area can be expected. Usually, it subsides after 1-2 days. You can use cold compresses or apply moisturizers.

Philosophy Of Beauty Our clinic, conveniently located in North York and serving Vaughan, Thornhill, and the Greater Toronto Area, offers a range of treatments for the face and body to enhance your confidence. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, please give us a call at 905-669-0306 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to discussing your unique needs and providing you with exceptional care.