Frequently Asked Questions - Laser Affair Tampa

What Are The Benefits?

Imagine freedom from razors, tweezing, waxing, stubble and ingrown hairs. No more embarrassing moments, or forfeited outings because you didn’t, or couldn’t, shave. Not to mention, realizing you forgot to pluck those ugly devils FOLLOWING that special event! Besides… who wants to cuddle with prickly stubs?
Unlike waxing, threading or plucking, there is no need to grow-out your hair. As a matter of fact, you must be clean shaven prior to treatment.
With smooth skin, who benefits the most? The one being touched…or the one doing the touching?

In Laser Hair Removal, light energy from the laser targets the melanin (color) in the hair just below the skin, inflicting injury to the cells lining the hair follicle, while leaving the surrounding tissue unaffected, inhibiting future growth.

Many describe the sensation similar to a small rubber band snapping at the skin.
Our system features a patented cooling mist sprayed milliseconds prior to the laser pulse for patient comfort and epidermal safety. No need for messy gels.
Aloe may be applied following the treatment to relieve any temporary discomfort.
During your free consultation, we will demonstrate how the laser works and administer a few pulses to ease any concerns.

When treated by a skilled technician on the appropriate laser, most clients recognize 70%-98% permanent reduction. Any hair remaining will grow back lighter and finer.
No one can predict the exact amount nor guarantee that other factors such as hormonal changes and medical considerations will not affect future growth.

There is no clinical evidence that the Candela Alexandrite Laser beam breaks down Botox or fillers, but the heat from the laser might contribute to quicker break-down.
At Laser Affair, we ask you to wait 2 weeks following injectables if you intend to have laser treatments in these areas.

Most clients require a minimum of 6 treatments and recognize about a 20% permanent reduction per treatment.
Your hair must be in the anagen (active growth) stage at the time of treatment to be most effective.
Since all hairs are not in this stage at the same time multiple treatments are required.

With our state-of-the-art laser, you can expect actual laser treatment time on underarms to take about 5 minutes, a Brazilian bikini treatment takes about 15 minutes, full legs takes about 90 minutes.

Treatments are timed to target the periods where hair growth is active to achieve successful results.
The face should be treated every 4-6 weeks; underarms and bikini every 6-8 weeks, trunk (chest/back) every 6-10 weeks; and extremities 6-12 weeks.

The laser targets the melanin (color) in the hair shaft. Increased melanin (color) in the skin will compete for the laser energy intended for the hair follicle beneath the skin.
The presence of a tan can lead to discoloration of the skin and blistering.
Recent exposure to the sun, or tanning beds, stimulates melanocytes increasing the risk of hyperpigmentation (increased color) in the shape of the laser gauge.
Adding sun exposure (or extreme heat) sooner than 1 week following your treatment may also lead to adverse reactions.
Hyperpigmentation is not permanent, but may take anywhere from a few weeks to a year or more to resolve.
The pigment from spray tans or lotions will also compete for the laser energy; however, these are perfectly safe “following” your laser treatment.

Only a MD, DO, ARNP, PA, or CME may legally perform Laser Hair Reduction in the State of Florida.
At Laser Affair, treatments are performed by highly skilled, experienced, medically licensed Laser Specialists, in a discrete, comfortable, and compassionate environment.

Laser Hair Removal is a safe, lunch-time procedure with no recovery or downtime. Some patients may turn pink or red, similar to a mild sunburn, and there may be some swelling around the follicle (a sign of a successful treatment). These symptoms are only temporary.
You may return to work or play immediately following the treatment, so long as you adhere to certain rules.
For example, no sun exposure, or intense heat such as saunas or hot tubs for a couple of days following treatment.
Although very rare, hyper/hypo pigmentation and blistering can occur.
Our informed consent will explain all of the possible risks.

No. Not even a little bit!
There are two basic types of radiation, Non-ionizing radiation, and Ionizing radiation.
Hair removal lasers produce “Non-ionizing” radiation which is simply the radiation of light, and is FDA approved for your skin.
Ionizing radiation, which represents x-rays, ultra-violet and nuclear radiation, is a completely different type of radiation, and is not produced by hair removal lasers.

We ask that you come in pre-shaved with squeaky clean skin.
Hair above the surface of the skin will absorb laser energy intended for the hair follicle.
Avoid waxing, plucking or depilatory creams for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Shaving or clipping is fine and expected.
Skin types IV will be required to have a spot test done 1-2 weeks prior to treatment.
Wait 7-10 days following microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or injectables prior to laser treatment.
Sun exposure and tanning beds must be avoided. It is recommended that SPF 30 be worn throughout your laser treatments. Sunless tanning is OK following treatment, but not prior.
Don’t worry if you forget to remove makeup, deodorant, lotion or cologne. Baby wipes will be provided for you.

Costs start at $75.00, but vary according to the treatment area and the number of treatments needed.
Over a lifetime, Laser Hair Reduction is both time efficient and cost effective.

More sensitive patients may choose to shave the day prior to their treatment to alleviate any irritation.
Patients that experience this can apply cool compresses and take an antihistamine to resolve any issues.