What areas can be treated?
Almost anywhere where there is unwanted hair. We treat the bikini line, underarms, legs, chest, shoulders, back, lip, chin, eyebrows, neck, feet, etc. (only place you cant treat is the eyelash).

Can you treat any skin types/colors?
All skin types (colors) can be treated but for darker skin types we need to perform a test treatment to determine the best laser settings and to assess for discoloration. We also will not treat recently tanned skin so sun avoidance for 4-6 weeks before the procedure is required. The laser works by being absorbed by the pigment in hair; therefore gray or blond hair may not respond well while darker hair colors respond best.

How many treatments does it take?
The number of treatments required will vary with each patient. For most patients 3 treatments will result in approximately a 70-90% reduction of hairs.

How long does it last--is it permanent?
Recent studies report that after a single treatment, there is a 40-50% reduction of hair at 6 months. Additional studies show that when reexamined at 2 years, this reduction persists. It is likely that hair reduction will persist beyond two years as well. There have been no laser studies designed to show permanent hair removal since "permanent" means forever (which is impossible to study). There is no treatment system of any kind which can truly claim "permanent hair removal".

How does laser compare to electrolysis?
There are no direct comparison studies between these different techniques. Laser is faster as in most cases less uncomfortable compared to electrolysis. Limited studies suggests that laser works as well as and perhaps better than electrolysis.

How long does a treatment take?
The time depends on the area treated. The lip takes only a few minutes while the back or legs can take as long as an hour.

How much does it cost?
The cost depends on the area treated. Prices range from $100 for between the eyebrows per treatment to $800 for the legs per treatment. Discounts are given for purchasing 3 treatments or a years worth of treatments. There is a $25 fee for a test treatment which can be applied toward future treatment costs.

Is there any special skin care needed before a treatment?
The treated areas should not be plucked, waxed, nor should a depilatory cream be used for 4 weeks before a treatment session. Shaving may be done up to 1-2 days before the procedure. Also the skin should not be tanned or have extensive sun exposure for 1 month before the procedure. Bleaching creams may be required for tanned skin.

Are there any side effects?
The Gentelase has an excellent safety record. Discoloration, either light or dark can occur. This can last for several months; currently there are no reports of permanent discoloration. Sometimes bleaching creams may be required to help lighten any dark spots. Rarely, blistering can occur which is treated like a sun burn.

How is the skin after the treatment?
Following the treatment the skin may feel like you have a mild sunburn. This sensation usually resolves overnight but may last a couple of days. Less commonly swelling may occur around the hair follicle and this lasts a few hours. Bruising may occur for 7-1 0 days and a fine peeling or brown flaking may occur for a several days as well.

Does the treatment hurt?
Our laser is equipped with a patented "dynamic cooling device." This emits a spray of refrigerant before the laser pulse to help minimize discomfort. Treatment areas such as the legs, back, or underarms are very well tolerated without anesthesia; for sensitive areas such as the lip or eyebrows, a topical anesthetic can be applied but most patients do not need this.