Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal remains one of the world’s most popular aesthetic procedures, but did you know that not all laser hair removal devices are made equal? Don’t throw your money away on ineffective treatments that will leave you disappointed.

At The Vanity Lab, we pride ourselves on being able to offer top-quality services with some of the most innovative technology on the market. As such, we are thrilled to treat our clients for laser hair removal with Diolaze™ by Inmode. Unlike other commonly used machines that utilize IPL (intense pulse light) for hair reduction, the Diolaze™ is a true diode laser, therefore able to provide more precision, speed, comfort, and safety while gently eliminating unwanted hair.

This device also allows us to treat a wider spectrum of skin tones and is so efficient you may start to see your results in as few as two sessions safely and effectively. Anyone with unwanted facial or body hair may be a good candidate for this treatment. It can also be life-changing for those who struggle with painful ingrown hairs or are tired of tedious daily plucking or shaving.

How does laser hair removal works?

Diode lasers use the principle of selective photo thermolysis to target specific chromophores in the skin. The lasers damage the chromophores by selectively heating them while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. When treating unwanted hair, the melanin in the hair follicles is targeted and damaged which results in the disruption of hair growth and regeneration. It is important to note that this treatment cannot be performed on tanned skin, as recent sun exposure increases the amount of active melanin in the skin which can cause “off-target” absorption of laser light, significantly increasing the risk of burns.

Hair grows in cycles, and hair follicles can only be targeted for laser hair removal when they are in their active growth phase (when melanin is most abundant). This is why laser hair removal must be completed in a series and you will have the most optimal results if you follow the recommended timeline for your sessions. It is also important to note that you should not wax, thread, pluck or otherwise epilate the area being targeted throughout the duration of your course of treatment as we need the hair follicles to be intact. Feel free to shave as frequently as you want or need!

Areas for Laser Hair Removal at The Vanity Lab:

• Legs
• Bikini
• Brazilian
• Underarms
• Arms
• Naval line
• Areola
• Back
• Chest
• Shoulders
• Neck
• Facial Hair

What to do before Laser Hair Removal?

Please note that if this is your first time having Laser Hair Removal at The Vanity Lab, or more than one year has elapsed since you last had this treatment with us, you will be required to have a test patch performed within 1-7 days prior to your treatment. This helps to ensure your safety, while also ensuring that we are treating you with the most effective settings. We also strongly recommend a test patch if you have had significant sun exposure since your last treatment.

The area being treated must be shaved prior to your appointment. It is best to shave the area as close to your scheduled appointment as possible. The closer the shave, the less chance of discomfort during treatment or skin irritation post-treatment.

• Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 daily.
• Tanned skin cannot be treated. Sun exposure to the area being treated must be avoided for 4 weeks prior to treatment.
• Must not have permanent makeup or dermal fillers on or near the treatment area. Permanent makeup may be lightened or removed by the laser. Dermal fillers will have accelerated deterioration when interaction with laser occurs.
• Do not use self-tanning agents for at least two weeks before your treatment. If you have used these products, thoroughly cleanse the area with an abrasive/exfoliating scrub to remove all products prior to your treatment.
• Discontinue the use of strong at-home chemical exfoliants such as retinols and AHAs for 7 days prior to your treatment.
• Discontinue use of any doctor-prescribed retinols, products containing benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, astringents or bleaching creams for 14 days prior to your treatment.
• You should not use alternative hair removal methods, such as electrolysis, hair removal creams, threading, plucking or waxing for 4 weeks prior to your treatment.
• Please ensure that you have not taken any antibiotics within 14 days prior to your treatment.
• If prone to fever blisters (herpes simplex), an anti-viral should be started 3 days prior to your treatment.
• Certain medications should be discontinued before your treatment. It is important to discuss all medications with your treating specialist.
• Please ensure to complete your pre-treatment screening and consent forms ahead of your appointment, and contact the clinic if indicated.

What to expect after Laser Hair Removal?

• Mild swelling around the hair follicles
• Pigment changes may occur, especially in those with darker skin. These changes are usually temporary
• Slight redness of the skin
• Warm sunburn-like sensation
• It is possible to experience a histamine reaction, characterized by excessive itching, redness, swelling and/or hives. This can be treated with oral antihistamines.

How many treatments do I need for Laser Hair Removal?

At The Vanity Lab, we do not believe in a “one size fits all” approach to skincare. This is why we place such emphasis on the importance of an initial consultation. During this comprehensive consultation, our experts will gain insight into your preferences, concerns, lifestyle, goals, and expectations.

In doing so, they are then able to perfectly curate a bespoke skin health program tailored to your unique needs. Your program will not only include specific recommendations on how many treatments you will require and the ideal time intervals for them but will also include the best medical-grade home care products on the market to enhance and maintain your results.

With the above information in mind, and as a very general guideline, laser hair removal can take anywhere from 6-8 treatments for optimal results. The interval between treatments will vary depending on the location of the hair we are treating, which will dictate the speed of the hair’s natural growth cycle (remember, we are trying to target hairs in their active growth phase).

On areas where hair grows quickly, such as the upper lip, the treatment might be repeated in 4-6 week intervals. On areas of slow hair growth, such as the legs and back, the treatment might be repeated in 6-8 week intervals.

The interval between treatments will also vary as your course of treatment progresses, and your hair subsequently grows back more slowly and sparsely. Please note that if you take extended breaks from your recommended course of treatment, this may result in you needing additional treatments to reach your ideal results. Once your series of treatments is complete, we recommend 1-2 sessions annually for continued maintenance.

How fast are the results of Laser Hair Removal?

While some hairs may be expelled from the follicle during your treatment, not all hairs fall out immediately. It is normal to notice shedding hairs for up to 14 days post-treatment.

Results vary significantly and are difficult to predict. Most people experience a difference in the amount and density of hair growth in the treated area(s) after their first few sessions, with continued improvements after each following session and full results after completing their recommended course of treatment. Laser hair removal doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal although if/when hair regrows, it's usually finer and lighter in colour. You may require additional laser treatments to maintain long-term hair reduction.