Laser Hair Removal - Questions and Answers
Q. How does it work?
A. The Polaris laser emits an intense beam of light which passes safely through the skin and is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) of the hair which converts the laser light into heat. This heat is led through the hair into the hair folicle which is then destroyed and unable to produce new hair.
Q. Does it hurt?
A. Most people describe the sensation as similar to that of a rubber band flicking against the skin. It is generally accepted that Laser Hair removal is more comfortable than waxing or electrolysis and may be used on any part of the body.
Q. How many treatments do I need?
A. Hair growth is cyclical as hair follicles go through resting and growing phases. Only follicles in the growing phase contain hair and are destroyed by the laser. Resting hair follicles need to enter the growing phase before they can be destroyed by the laser. It is therefore necessary to repeat the treatment at intervals until all hair follicles have been through the growth phase. After a number of repeat sessions almost all of the hair will be permanently removed for ever. Typically 8 - 12 sessions are required to remove life from all problematic hairs and the intervals between treatments are typically 4 - 6 weeks.
Q. Can all hairs be treated?
A. Treatment is based on pigment in the hair follicle absorbing laser light and the heat generated causing damage to the follicle. Treatment will not work on very blonde, white or grey hair, as the hair does not contain enough melanin for the laser to be effective.
Q. Is the treatment safe?
A. This process is completely harmless and totally safe when administered by a trained operator. Our operators have successfully completed the accredited Polaris training course so you can be assured that not only do you have a laser with the highest safety ratings, but a properly trained practitioner who understands the clinical applications as well as the dynamics of laser therapy.
Q. How long does a treatment take?
A. A large number of hair is targeted in one flash of light. Unlike electrolysis each treatment covers the whole area, whether it is a person's back or a lady's bikini line. A facial treatment, e.g. upper lip, takes around 10 minutes whereas a back or both legs take 60-120 minutes.

