Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal image with a legs

Laser hair removal remains the #1 cosmetic laser treatment performed in the United States. Underarms, facial hair, bikini, legs, back and other body part areas are easily eliminated using the latest in laser hair reduction technologies. For permanent hair removal, the hair follicle’s bulb, bulge, and papilla must be destroyed using joules of light energy. Laser hair removal requires a target (melanin) to see the actual hair within the follicle so it is not as effective with blonde and white (gray) hair individuals. The number of treatments vary based upon the hair growth cycles of various body locations and is safe and comfortable to the patient.

The reason for multiple treatments is due to the target of the laser hair treatment being melanin, only actively growing hair contains melanin in the bulb and germinal matrix of the hair. The growth cycles for hair are Anagen (active growth), Telogen (no growth), and Cathagen (hair is ejected) stage of development. Lasers only effectively treat the hair in its Anagen Phase: multiple treatments are required.

Body location of hair also is important in the number of laser treatments needed as the percentage of hair that is in the Anagen stage is different for various body locations.

We offer different laser devices and the selection of laser technology will be tailored to each individual's specific hair and skin characteristics.

Laser hair removal requires expertise in wavelength selection, fluency, pulse duration, and cooling (skin relaxation) in order to give comfortable and effective treatments. We are the laser hair removal experts and we are able to make the fluency adjustments for anatomical location, hair and skin color, diameter and depth of hair follicles, and hair density. When it comes to lasers no one setting is correct for every individual, call us today and set up your free consultation for a lifetime of being hair free.

Body location of hair also is important in the number of laser treatments needed as the percentage of hair that is in the Anagen stage is different for various body locations:

 Body Location % Anagen Hair Telogen Approx # Treatments
Beard/Face 70% 10 Weeks 6-7
Upper Lip 65% 6 Weeks 6-7
Axillae 30% 12 Weeks 6-7
Arms 20% 18 Weeks 6-7
Legs/Thighs 20% 24 Weeks 6-7

 

Before and after image of laser hair removal treatment on a women's face

Motus AX

illume MD is proud to offer laser hair removal, unlike any other laser treatment available. With our patients’ needs in mind, we conducted extensive research which led us to the Motus AX, distributed by Cartessa Aesthetics and manufactured by Europe’s top aesthetic laser manufacturer, DEKA.  Here are the important facts you need to know about our new Motus AX laser:
  • Faster Hair Removal
  • Fewer Treatments compared to typical laser hair removal
  • Treat Light & Dark Skin-types
  • More Comfortable Treatments
As many recognize, laser hair removal is one of the most common cosmetic laser procedures. In general, devices for hair removal beam highly concentrated light into hair follicles. Pigment in the follicles absorb the light which then destroys the hair. The most efficacious laser for hair removal (particularly fine and light hair) has historically been the Alexandrite laser. However, limitations when treating darker skin types kept it from being the universal choice for providers and many patients have had to settle for less efficacious laser hair removal options. Until now, the Motus AX is the first, high-speed Alexandrite laser that makes it possible for even darker skin types to benefit from the effectiveness of this laser type. This breakthrough is possible because of Moveo technology — a handpiece that delivers fast, more efficient energy to destroy the hair in a way that is painless and free from side-effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

IS A MOTUS AX TREATMENT RIGHT FOR ME?
One of the breakthrough benefits of the Motus AX is that it is safe and effective for light to dark skin types. Whether you have fine, light hair or a darker skin tone, the Motus AX can be used to target and permanently remove unwanted hair. The Motus AX may also be used with tanned skin however, it is always recommended that you talk with your physician about your specific skin conditions before treatment. What makes Motus AX different from other lasers for hair removal?

WHAT MAKES MOTUS AX DIFFERENT FROM OTHER LASERS FOR HAIR REMOVAL?
The three main differences between the Motus AX and other technologies for laser hair removal are:1) Total comfort 2) Speed and effectiveness of the treatment and 3) Use across skin-types. The Motus AX eliminates the trade-offs that come with other laser hair removal options. For instance, an Nd:YAG laser can be used across skin types but is less effective. Other technologies are highly effective but treatments are difficult to tolerate.

WILL MY TREATMENT HURT?
One of the major benefits of the Motus AX, is that the Moveo technology eliminates the discomfort of typical laser hair removal. Most people only feel a warming sensation making the experience a highly comfortable one.

HOW LONG WILL MY TREATMENT TAKE?
Treatment length will vary depending on the area being treated. The Motus AX is relatively fast and able to complete a large area in under 5 minutes. 

HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
The number of sessions required to eliminate hair completely depends on the individual. A typical laser hair removal regimen is 5-6 sessions spaced one month apart and then maintenance treatments as needed. Given the efficacy of the Motus AX, you may need fewer sessions and could go longer before needing a touch-up treatment.

LASER HAIR REMOVAL FACTS

WHAT KIND OF LASER DOES illumeMD USE?
illumeMD has two types of FDA-cleared lasers. Our experience in laser hair removal has shown that no one laser can accommodate all skin types and colors. Dark skin types require a specific YAG laser to be safe and effective. For lighter skin types illumeMD uses the Diode laser, which is considered the gold standard in laser hair removal.

WHO PERFORMS THE LASER HAIR REMOVAL PROCEDURE?
All laser hair removal treatments are performed by one of our well-trained medical professionals. Each practitioner is extensively trained before performing any treatments. Our medical doctor oversees all treatment and competency of the medical staff

WHAT TYPES OF HAIR COLOR & SKIN COLOR CAN BE TREATED WITH LASER HAIR REMOVAL?
While laser hair removal can be performed on virtually any skin color and hair type, hair color is the most important factor. The light emitted from the laser is attracted to the melanin, or dark pigment, in the hair follicle. This means that dark hair is treated most effectively. Treatments performed on red, blonde, and gray hair are not generally as effective. Our multiple laser modalities allow us great versatility for accommodating the wide variance in hair and skin color.

WHY IS OUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION IMPORTANT?
Coming in for a complimentary consultation is the most important step towards solving your unwanted hair problem. Your physician will determine whether you're an appropriate candidate for successful treatment. Additionally, you will learn how laser treatment works and how much it costs. Our consultants have been asked every question imaginable and are committed to handling all your concerns.