Laser Hair Removal

Laser smooth, forever you. Ditch the razor and embrace lasting confidence.

Years of Experience
1 +
Surgeries Per Year
1 +
Procedures Performed
1 +

Overview

Procedure Summary

Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to eliminate unwanted hair from various parts of the body.

Average Cost 

$800 to $5000 Plus HST

Time Duration 

Few minutes up to an hour

Alternate Names 

Laser hair reduction, Laser hair elimination, Permanent laser hair reduction, Light-based hair removal, Laser hair therapy, Laser depilation, Laser hair management. 

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Tired of shaving and waxing? Laser hair removal is a long-lasting solution that uses beams of light to zap hair follicles, stopping them from growing back. The procedure is minimally invasive and offers a long-term reduction in hair growth, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more permanent solution to hair removal. At Kanata Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, our aesthetics team uses safe and effective laser equipment to target unwanted hair without harming your skin.

Who is the Suitable Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

If you are looking for laser hair removal treatment, and wondering if it’s right for you, here are some telltale signs for suitable candidates. You 

 

  • Have unwanted hair on various parts of your body.
  • Have hair that is darker than their skin (as the laser targets pigment).
  • Are in good overall health.
  • Have realistic expectations about the outcomes.
  • Are committed to undergoing multiple treatment sessions for optimal results.
  • Do not have conditions such as active infections, certain skin disorders, or are not pregnant.

What are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal offers a range of benefits that go beyond just removing unwanted hair. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Laser hair removal precisely targets dark, coarse hairs without affecting the surrounding skin. This accuracy ensures effective hair removal with minimal risk of damage, leaving your skin smoother and more refined.
  • The laser’s rapid pulses treat multiple hairs at once, making the procedure quick. Whether for small areas like the upper lip or larger areas like the back or legs, the treatment is fast and convenient for busy folks like you.
  • Laser hair removal provides lasting results. After several sessions, you’ll see a significant reduction in hair growth. This long-term outcome means less ongoing maintenance and more freedom from unwanted hair.
  • Laser hair removal not only eliminates hair but also improves skin quality. It can stimulate collagen production, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and other imperfections, resulting in a more youthful and radiant complexion.
  • Without unwanted hair, you’ll feel a significant boost in confidence and self-esteem. Smoother, hair-free skin helps you feel more comfortable and empowered in your appearance.
  • Laser hair removal simplifies your grooming routine, saving you time and effort compared to traditional hair removal methods. This allows you to spend more time on activities you enjoy.

Laser Hair Removal Consultation

During the initial consultation, someone from our aesthetics team will review your medical history, skin type, and hair characteristics. They’ll consider the colour, thickness, and location of your unwanted hair to determine if laser hair removal is right for you.

They’ll also discuss any hair removal methods you’ve tried in the past and any skin reactions you’ve experienced. This helps our esthetician tailor the treatment plan specifically to your needs.

Before your laser session, our aesthetician will do a patch test to see how your skin reacts to the laser and determine the perfect settings for your unique skin type. You’ll also receive pre-treatment instructions, such as avoiding sun exposure, tanning beds, waxing, and plucking for a few weeks beforehand. Shaving, however, is usually okay as it keeps the hair shaft intact for the laser to target effectively.

The consultation is also your chance to ask questions and discuss your expectations. Freely ask our aestheticians about expected results, how many sessions you might need, potential side effects, and how to care for your skin after treatment.

Laser Hair Removal Equipment

At Kanata Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery, we use an advanced laser called CoolGlide for hair removal. Here’s why:

1

It works on all skin tones, even tans. No need to wait for the tan to fade before starting your treatments.

2

The CoolGlide has a special cooling handpiece to soothe your skin during the procedure.

3

This laser has a bigger treatment zone, so it's quicker for areas like your back or legs.

4

CoolGlide gets to the root of the hair, giving you significant hair reduction after a few sessions. Most people experience minimal downtime, with just a bit of redness or swelling that goes away quickly.

5

This laser precisely targets hair follicles, leaving the surrounding skin protected. This makes it perfect for areas like your face or bikini line.

Laser Hair Removal Procedure

Anesthetic Measures

While laser hair removal is generally well-tolerated, topical numbing creams may be applied beforehand. This cream helps minimize any stinging or discomfort you might feel during the treatment. This way, you can relax and enjoy a smoother laser hair removal experience, all without needing strong anesthesia or sedation.

Preparation

Before the laser treatment, we’ll thoroughly clean the area to make sure it’s prepped for the treatment. If needed, we might also shave the area to help the laser target the hair follicles more effectively. For your safety, we’ll also provide you with special glasses to protect your eyes from the laser’s light.

Application of Cooling Gel

Our aesthetician may apply a cooling gel to your skin to keep you comfortable and protect your skin from the heat of the laser.

Laser Application

We carefully adjust the laser settings based on your skin and hair, then gently disable the hair follicles. These laser pulses disable the follicles, making it harder for hair to grow back in the future.

Post-Treatment Care

After the laser session, our aesthetician may use cooling devices or ice packs to reduce any remaining discomfort and minimize redness. You will also receive detailed post-treatment instructions, including tips on sun protection and skincare to help you heal and get the best results

Recovery and Aftercare of Laser Hair Removal

Immediate Post-Procedure Care 

Following laser hair removal, you may experience temporary side effects such as redness, swelling, and a mild sunburn-like sensation in the treated area. These effects are usually transient and diminish within a few hours to a few days after the procedure.

Home Recovery Guidelines 

Additionally, you may be advised to adhere to the following home care instructions:

 

  • Protect the treated area from the sun by wearing clothes that cover it or using sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) every day. 
  • In case of any pain, over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any discomfort, and ice packs can reduce swelling.
  • Skip the harsh scrubs and stick to gentle cleansers and moisturizers for a few days. This will keep your skin happy and hydrated.

Follow-up Appointments 

Laser hair removal usually takes multiple sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. This is because the laser targets hair in its growth phase. The total number of sessions depends on your hair type, colour, and the area treated.

 

Our aesthetics team will see you for follow-up appointments to track your progress and adjust your plan if needed. Once you complete your laser hair removal sessions, you’ll enjoy long-lasting smoothness. An occasional touch-up might be needed later on, but that’s totally normal. Just remember to maintain a healthy skincare routine and protect your skin from the sun to keep those results lasting.

Risks and Complications of Laser Hair Removal

While laser hair removal is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks and side effects that you should be aware of.

Skin Irritation: Temporary redness, swelling, and discomfort in the treated area are common side effects that typically resolve within a few hours to a few days.

Pigment Changes: Skin darkening (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation) may occur, especially in those with darker skin tones. These changes are usually temporary but can sometimes be very long lasting.

Blistering and Scarring: In rare cases, blistering or scarring may occur, especially if the skin is not properly cared for post-treatment or if the laser settings are too aggressive.

Accidental exposure to laser light can cause damage to the eyes, highlighting the importance of wearing protective eyewear during the procedure.

What’s the Cost of Laser Hair Removal?

The cost of laser hair removal depends on a few things: the size of the area you want treated, how many sessions you need, and your specific situation. Generally, prices range from CAD 400 to CAD 800 per session. Treating larger areas like your back or legs will cost more than smaller areas like your upper lip.

Laser hair removal is usually considered an elective cosmetic procedure, so insurance typically doesn't cover it. We understand that cost can be a concern, though. That's why we offer financing options to make laser hair removal more accessible. This might include flexible payment plans or working with third-party financing services. You can discuss all the options during your consultation with our aesthetician to find the best payment plan for your budget.

Our Gallery

Ottawa’s Private Surgical Facility

To schedule your consultation, simply call our Cosmetic
Patient Coordinators at 613-591-1099 or complete the
contact form below. We are here to support you through
your journey and look forward to assisting you!

 

FAQs

The number of sessions required varies depending on factors like hair type, colour, and treatment area. On average, patients undergo 6-8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal reduction in hair growth.

While laser hair removal offers long-lasting results, it may not be entirely permanent. Most individuals experience a significant reduction in hair growth, with finer and lighter hairs remaining. Periodic maintenance sessions may be necessary to sustain results.

Many people experience minimal discomfort during laser hair removal, often likened to the sensation of a rubber band snapping against the skin. Topical numbing creams and cooling devices can enhance comfort during the procedure.

Advancements in laser technology allow for safe treatment across a wide range of skin tones. However, efficacy and risk of side effects may vary based on skin type and hair colour. Our aesthetic team uses the best laser equipment to accommodate diverse skin tones and hair types.

Prior to treatment, it’s advisable to avoid sun exposure, waxing, and plucking for several weeks. Post-treatment, patients should continue to shield the treated area from sun exposure, avoid hot baths, and use gentle skincare products to maintain skin health.

Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, and mild discomfort. Rare side effects may include pigment changes, blistering, or scarring. Adhering to pre- and post-treatment care instructions helps minimize risks.

Preparation involves avoiding sun exposure, discontinuing certain hair removal methods, and shaving the treatment area before the session. You should also disclose any medications that may affect skin sensitivity to their technician.

Laser hair removal uses regulated and tested medical devices that are approved by the FDA and Health Canada to ensure safety and efficacy. The laser targets only the hair follicles, leaving the surrounding skin unharmed, minimizing the risk of burns or damage. Our trained and qualified professionals conduct the procedure with proper protocols and protective measures, such as using the appropriate settings for different skin types and providing eye protection during treatment.

 

No, laser hair removal can’t be performed on areas with tattoos.

Laser hair removal is most effective on dark, pigmented hair as the laser targets melanin in the hair follicle. Light-coloured or bleached hair may be less responsive to treatment as there is less pigment to absorb the laser energy. Our aesthetics team can provide personalized recommendations based on hair colour and type.

While research is ongoing, many healthcare providers recommend waiting to get laser hair removal until after pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is because the potential risks to the baby are still being studied. It’s always best to talk to our aesthetics team before scheduling any laser treatments during this time.

RECENTLY ON THE BLOG

News & Events

Ready to finally experience the breast you’ve always imagined? Don't wait any longer – book your consultation and our team will make it happen.