Diode Laser Hair Removal

The laser delivers controlled energy that is preferentially absorbed by pigment within suitable hairs.

This energy is converted into heat within the follicle, helping to disrupt future hair growth.

The surrounding skin is protected using the device’s treatment and cooling systems.

Over a course, patients can experience a progressive reduction in the number, thickness and rate of growth of suitable treated hairs.

Hair grows in different stages.

Laser is most effective when suitable hair is in its active growth phase and connected to the structures we are trying to target.

Not every hair is in this stage simultaneously.

Repeated treatments at appropriate intervals allow us to target new groups of hairs as they enter the active growth phase.

There is no single number that applies to everybody.

Many patients require a course of treatments followed by occasional maintenance, but the number required varies according to:

• Treatment area
• Hair colour and thickness
• Skin type
• Hormonal influences
• Individual hair-growth cycle
• Previous hair-removal methods
• Individual response to treatment

We will monitor your progress throughout your course and adjust your treatment plan where appropriate.

Facial hair can behave differently from body hair.

Hormonal influences can contribute to hair growth on areas such as the chin, jawline and neck, meaning some patients require a longer course or ongoing maintenance.

Laser can reduce suitable hair but does not treat the underlying hormonal cause of excessive hair growth.

Where a pattern of hair growth suggests a possible underlying medical or hormonal issue, we may recommend appropriate medical assessment.

Laser relies on pigment within the hair to absorb energy.

Darker, more heavily pigmented hairs generally provide a better target than very light hairs.

White, grey and some very blonde or red hairs may contain insufficient suitable pigment for effective laser treatment.

We will assess your hair before recommending a course rather than promising results for hair that is unlikely to respond.

Following consultation and any required patch testing, the area is prepared and protective eyewear provided.

The laser handpiece is applied systematically across the treatment area while controlled pulses of energy are delivered.

You may feel warmth or a brief snapping sensation during treatment.

Appointment length depends on the size of the area being treated.

You will normally be advised to shave the treatment area according to your pre-treatment instructions.

Waxing, plucking and epilating remove the hair from the follicle and can interfere with the target required for laser treatment, so these methods generally need to be avoided during your treatment course.

Specific preparation instructions will be provided by the clinic.

Temporary effects can include:

• Redness
• Warmth
• Mild sensitivity
• Slight swelling around individual follicles

Treated hairs do not necessarily disappear immediately. They may appear to continue growing before gradually shedding from the follicles following treatment.

Sun exposure and tanning are particularly important considerations with laser treatment.

Recent tanning can affect treatment safety and increase the risk of unwanted skin reactions or pigment changes.

You should follow the clinic’s guidance regarding sun exposure and use appropriate sun protection throughout your treatment course.

Fake tan must also be managed according to your pre-treatment instructions.

Before starting laser hair removal, we will assess your:

• Skin type
• Hair colour and thickness
• Treatment area
• Medical history
• Medications
• Recent sun exposure
• Previous laser treatments
• Hair-removal history

Patch testing may be required before full treatment.

Settings are selected according to your individual assessment and adjusted throughout your course where appropriate.

Laser hair removal is more accurately described as long-term hair reduction rather than a guarantee that every treated hair will permanently disappear.

A successful course can significantly reduce suitable hair growth, with remaining hairs potentially becoming finer or less noticeable.

Hormonal changes and other biological factors can also stimulate new hair growth over time, so maintenance treatments may sometimes be required.

Laser is a professional treatment and inappropriate use can cause complications including burns and unwanted pigment changes.

This is why consultation, appropriate settings, eye protection, skin assessment and adherence to pre- and post-treatment advice are important parts of your treatment.

Relevant risks and expected outcomes will be discussed before you begin your course.

You don’t need to commit to a course before understanding whether your hair is suitable.

We can assess your skin, hair and treatment area first, discuss realistic expectations and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.