Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a light-based treatment designed to provide long-term reduction of unwanted hair on the face and body. The treatment targets pigment within the hair follicle, using controlled light energy to damage follicles and reduce future hair growth.
At View Laser in Delta and Tsawwassen, laser hair removal treatments are customized based on your skin tone, hair colour, treatment area and individual hair growth patterns.
Laser hair removal may be used for unwanted pigmented hair on areas including:
- Face and upper lip
- Chin and jawline
- Underarms
- Arms
- Chest and abdomen
- Back
- Bikini area
- Legs
- Feet and toes
- Other appropriate areas of the body
Because the technology relies on pigment within the hair as a target, laser hair removal is generally most effective on darker hair. Blonde, white, grey and some red hair may respond poorly or may not be appropriate for treatment.
View Laser uses the Palomar Icon™ system for laser hair reduction.
During treatment, light energy is directed toward pigment within the hair. The energy is absorbed and converted into heat, which damages targeted structures within the hair follicle and helps reduce its ability to produce new hair.
Because hair grows in cycles, multiple treatments are needed to progressively target hairs as they enter an active growth phase.
Treatment typically takes approximately 5-45 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas being treated.
During treatment, you may experience warmth or a snapping sensation as each pulse is delivered. Treatment settings are selected according to your skin characteristics, hair colour, hair thickness and treatment area.
Over the weeks following treatment, successfully treated hairs gradually shed. With successive treatments, regrowth may become finer, lighter and less dense.
Avoid waxing, tweezing, threading or other methods that remove hair from the follicle before and throughout your treatment series. Shaving is generally recommended instead, as the follicle needs to remain present for the laser to target it.
Avoid tanning, self-tanner and significant sun exposure before treatment. Recently tanned or sunburned skin may not be appropriate to treat.
Let your provider know about medications, supplements, recent procedures, skin conditions or anything that may increase your sensitivity to light.
You will receive specific instructions about when to shave the treatment area before your appointment.
Temporary redness, warmth, sensitivity or swelling around individual hair follicles may occur following treatment.
Avoid excessive heat, vigorous exercise, hot tubs, saunas and irritating skincare products for the period recommended by your provider.
Do not wax, tweeze or pull out hairs between treatments. Treated hairs may gradually shed over the following days and weeks.
Protect exposed treatment areas from the sun and use broad-spectrum sunscreen consistently throughout your treatment series.
