What is Laser Hair Removal?

One of the most commonly done procedures in the United States, laser hair removal, is the process of beaming concentrated light into your hair follicles. During laser hair removal, a laser emits a light absorbed by the hair's pigment (melanin). The darker the hair, the better the result. The light energy converts to heat, which damages the hair follicles that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth. Mayoclinic.org says that "laser hair removal is used to reduce unwanted hair. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and the bikini line. However, it's possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area..."

At Alora Wellness & Spa in Eugene, Oregon, we use the GentleLASE Hair Removal machine.

What does the Laser Hair Removal process look like?

The GentleLASE Hair Removal laser targets the hair follicle with intense laser light energy for thermal destruction to provide permanent hair reduction over the course of a few treatments. Its Alexandrite laser emits high-energy light in longer wavelengths than other lasers so that it can destroy deeper hair follicles. It can be used on any body part, but popular treatment areas include the legs, underarms, bikini zone, face, chest, and back. Comparable to other laser hair removal devices, GentleLASE permanently removes hair with less pain and is considered safer by many experts. The speed of treatment and dynamic cooling device creates a comfortable experience for every patient. Patients see up to 80% hair reduction in just three treatments.

Laser hair removal is a medical process. Because of this, it is vital to be sure you have trained professionals taking care of you and your hair removal procedure. A Laser Technician should have gone through an accredited laser training program and taken the required specific training for each machine. They should work under a Medical Director.

How should I prepare for my Laser Hair Removal treatment?

Before a Laser Hair Removal session, you should cease or limit your use of plucking or waxing as laser hair removal aims to eliminate the roots of the hairs, which are temporarily eliminated when doing those processes. You will be asked to shave your legs one to two days before your procedure. Your specialist will give you protective eyewear during your laser hair removal session. Some patients report a slight stinging sensation during the treatment; however, most patients who have waxed or had electrolysis report that GentleLASE Hair Removal feels less painful. The energy can be adjusted if the patient thinks it is too uncomfortable. Most patients have no residual pain within 20–30 minutes after treatment. 

Does Laser Hair Removal hurt?

Some patients report a slight stinging sensation during the treatment; however, most patients who have waxed or had electrolysis report that GentleLASE Hair Removal feels less painful. The energy can be adjusted if the patient thinks it is too uncomfortable. Most patients have no residual pain within 20–30 minutes after treatment.

The GentleLASE Hair Removal device delivers a more comfortable patient experience through its distinctive Dynamic Cooling Device™. This cooling system sprays the skin before each laser pulse with a cooling burst of cryogen over the treatment area, providing a Cooling Protection Factor over 50% greater than contact or air cooling for optimal comfort!

What is the cost of Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal results are highly satisfying and longer lasting than other hair removal treatments. Most laser hair treatments require 6-8 sessions, and prices may range from $140 per 15-minute increment to more. Because Alora's laser hair removal system is very fast, the cost is $125 per 15-minute increment. Typically all facial hair can be treated within 15 minutes. Areas such as underarms or bikinis are generally cleared within 15 minutes. Some bikini areas may require more than 15 minutes. Bikinis, legs, arms, and backs can be cleared within 30-45 minute blocks.

What about waxing?

Waxing is when the root of your hair is pulled via wax to aid in slowing down hair growth. Waxing differs from shaving since shaving is just trimming the hair down on the surface of your skin and not removing the hair follicles from the roots, which is why shaving typically speeds up the process of hair growth.

Healthline.com tells us that "waxing involves a warm mixture that's applied to the skin and removed quickly once it cools. There are two different types of wax: soft and hard wax. Soft wax requires strips to remove and is made with rosin, oils, and other additives. The wax is applied, and the strip is placed on top to remove the hair against the direction of growth. Hard waxes firm up on their own and are made from beeswax, resin, and oils. Unlike soft waxes, hard waxes remove hair without strips."

Waxing pain, cost, overall?

Waxing is an affordable option (though very comparable to Laser Hair Removal pricing) and can even be done at home with the proper education and knowledge. Only one session is needed up to every six weeks to achieve flawless, smooth skin. Although many claim waxing is a painful process, it does not require any topical treatments because the pain is temporary and, by the end of every session, does not last more than 1-2 minutes. At Alora Wellness & Spa, we offer waxing services for facial waxing, eyebrow waxing, lip waxing, chin waxing, ear waxing, and nose waxing.

So which is best? Waxing or Laser Hair Removal?

In summary, you can't go wrong with waxing or Laser Hair Removal. However, for a more permanent solution, Laser Hair Removal is always the best option. Over time, you will save more with Laser Hair Removal versus waxing. If you have lighter hair that can't be detected by Laser Hair Removal, electrolysis or waxing may be the best option. 

Our specialists ensure all our clients are comfortable and peaceful during their experiences with all our services and products. Alora Wellness & Spa is located in Eugene, Oregon, serving patients from Springfield, Bend, Portland, Corvallis, Salem, Junction City, Albany, Monroe, Harrisburg, Veneta, Roseburg, and surrounding areas. Our team of Licensed Estheticians & Medical professionals fully understand and embrace each client's unique skin and skin care needs. We listen to our clients thoroughly so that we can deliver exceptional service and results.

Visit us today or book your treatment here!

Questions? Give us a call at (541) 228-9595 or email us.

Schedule a #GlowUpAlready Consultation with one of our specialists to have the perfect GLOW plan formulated for you. The #GlowUpAlready Consultation is a 30-minute consultation to discuss anything you'd like to address. From there, Alora's specialists will formulate a treatment plan tailored to your needs. If your need requires treatment outside of our practice - no worries! We will refer you to the best in the field.