Laser hair removal is a popular method for long-term hair reduction or removal. It works by using a concentrated beam of light, known as a laser, to target and damage the hair follicles. The heat generated by the laser is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles, which damages their ability to grow new hair. 

1. Preparation: Before the treatment, the area to be treated is usually cleaned and shaved. This ensures that the laser energy is focused on the hair follicles rather than the hair above the skin.
    
2.  Adjustment of laser settings: The laser technician adjusts the laser equipment according to your hair colour, thickness, and the area being treated. Different laser systems may have specific settings for optimal results.
    
3. Protection of surrounding skin: Our PHI Clinic therapist may apply a cooling gel or use a specialised cooling device to protect the outer layer of the skin and minimise discomfort during the treatment.
    
4. Laser treatment: The laser device emits a concentrated beam of light that passes through the skin and is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicles. The laser energy transforms into heat, damaging the follicles while leaving the surrounding skin relatively unharmed.
    
5. Cooling and discomfort management: Some laser systems have built-in cooling mechanisms to cool the skin during and after each laser pulse, reducing any potential discomfort. You may also be provided with ice packs or cooling creams to alleviate any temporary skin sensitivity.
    
6. Multiple sessions: Since hair growth occurs in cycles and the laser can only target actively growing hairs, multiple sessions are usually required to treat all the hair in a particular area. The number of sessions needed varies depending on factors like hair colour, skin type, and the treatment area.

It's worth noting that laser hair removal is generally more effective for people with dark hair and light skin since the laser targets the pigment in the hair follicles. Lighter hair colours, such as grey or white, may not respond as effectively to laser treatment.

After the treatment, you might experience some redness, swelling, or mild discomfort in the treated area, but these side effects are usually temporary. It's important to follow the post-treatment instructions provided by your technician, such as avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen on the treated area.

At PHI Clinic, we understand that each patient’s hair type and skin tone are unique, which is why our laser hair removal specialists offer tailored treatment sessions to suit a wide variety of needs. Whether you’re dealing with facial hairs, unwanted body hair, or even ingrown hairs, our laser hair removal technology ensures effective treatments that are designed to achieve long-lasting results, including permanent hair reduction.

For patients with darker skin tones or dark skin types, we use specialised lasers to ensure safety and efficacy, as traditional laser systems can sometimes pose a risk of skin damage or adverse reactions. However, at PHI Clinic, our advanced technologies minimise these risks, allowing us to safely treat black hair, blonde hair, and even white hair with maximum precision. This level of care also extends to patients with tanned skin or those with lighter hair colours, ensuring that everyone can benefit from smooth skin and smoother skin texture without the typical discomfort.

Although laser hair removal is known for being an excellent solution for excessive hair growth, it’s important to note that results vary based on the individual’s hair roots and future hair growth cycles. For example, grey hair and white hair might require more specific targeting due to their lack of pigment. However, with a comprehensive consultation and the guidance of our laser specialists, we can optimise your treatment to deliver the best possible results. Typically, patients begin to notice a significant reduction in hair after a few laser hair removal sessions, with further progress seen after each subsequent session.

Our clinic, conveniently located on Harley Street, provides a painless experience with minimal skin irritation during and after the treatment. With proper preparation, such as shaving the treatment area weeks before treatment, and ongoing care throughout your course of treatments, you’ll be on the way to a permanent solution for unwanted hair. Laser hair removal not only removes the hassle of shaving and waxing but also helps in preventing the recurrence of issues like ingrown hairs and other skin irritations.

As a guideline, we suggest patients have 10 sessions in total but may be advised otherwise upon consultation. It is advisable that patients come to the clinic every 4-6 weeks. Not only will consistent treatments provide better results in the long term, it will also allow for the hairs to be treated in the best stage of growth.