Are you tired of constantly shaving, waxing, or plucking unwanted hair?
I’m Dr. Alexa, licensed naturopathic medical doctor, certified functional medicine practitioner, and managing physician at Virasoap Natural Medicine.
As a holistic doctor, I believe in providing my patients with nontoxic skincare options and “natural medical aesthetics” — an approach that I’ve developed that harnesses the body’s innate healing abilities to restore natural beauty and minimize toxic exposure through the all-too-common use of health-damaging products like Botox and filler.
I will be the first to admit that I have had a lot of unwanted hair, and 10 years ago I got it laser-treated 8 times at a “professional” medical spa. The process was painful (they used ice packs on the skin prior to treatment as the “pain management”), it took forever, it was expensive, and in a matter of months the hair was back! I gave up and went back to traditional hair removal of waxing and sugaring, when time and budget allowed. While sugaring was better than the razor for my skin, I was stuck back with the regrowth cycle.
Fast forward to this year, I learned why my previous treatment was unsuccessful. The technology of the laser energy I used before (IPL) was ineffective. I learned about new diode laser hair removal technology that was safer, faster, more comfortable, and way more effective than any devices used to remove hair that had come before. I tried it, loved it, and have eliminated 95% of unwanted hair.
This process has taught me that not all hair elimination technology is created equal, and that the expertise of your provider matters as much as the device itself because settings and technique matter – a bad provider will give you bad results. You need someone with laser hair removal experience using individualized settings for effective hair removal.
I’m writing this guide to provide an in-depth look at laser hair removal (LHR) services in Boise & beyond, including benefits, preparation, expectations, and more. I hope it helps!
Frequently Asked Questions
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal Treatment
- Long-term Results: Unlike razors or waxing, advanced laser hair removal offers long-lasting solutions. Most patients experience permanent hair loss after an average of three to seven sessions (depending on the type of laser and hair).
- Time-Saving: After LHR, patients save time and expense on shaving and other hair reduction services. Enjoy a 15 minute shower again!
- Skin Quality: LHR reduces folliculitis (bumps) and visible follicles. So not only are you removing unwanted hair, but you can achieve smooth and better texture skin.
Preparation for Laser Hair Reduction
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a licensed medical provider to discuss treatment areas, skin and hair type. This is essential for making sure that you have the best experience and have effective laser results.
- Pre-Treatment Guidelines: Avoid sun exposure, waxing, and plucking hairs for several weeks prior to treatment.
- Shaving: Use a razor on the treatment area a day before the appointment to ensure the laser targets the hair follicles effectively. In fact, I recommend to vary the time of shaving prior to LHR to give different depths of treatment. For example, with some LHR devices it’s best to have a “5 o’clock shadow” length of hair instead of being clean shaven.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Duration: The length of the session can vary depending on the treatment size. Small areas like the upper lip might only take minutes, while larger areas like the legs take longer.
- Sensation: Patients describe a sensation similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin, depending on the device. Many providers offer cooling devices and topical anesthetics to minimize discomfort.
Post-Treatment Care
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect treated areas from the sun with quality sunscreen or avoidance.
- Moisturize: Apply provider recommended moisturizers or aloe to soothe the skin if needed.
- Pro Tips: Avoid plucking or waxing before the next LHR session as this will make the treatment less effective. With some devices you can expect hairs to “jump” or fall out once they’ve been eliminated. While this is satisfying, it’s important to be patient. For some body hair this can happen same day, for others it can take a week or two.
- Follow-Up Sessions: Maintain a schedule for necessary follow-up treatments to achieve optimal results, typically every 4-8 weeks depending on the growth cycle. LHR only works if performed during the proper phase of your growth cycle.
Side Effects and Risks
Common side effects include temporary redness, swelling, dryness and mild discomfort. More rare complications might include blisters or pigment changes. These risks are always higher with an untrained provider or without a consultation to correctly set the device settings. You should discuss these potential risks with your licensed provider during the consultation before your treatment.
How Does Laser Treatment Work?
Laser hair removal involves the use of concentrated light beams to target and destroy hair follicles, causing the hair shaft to fall out and preventing future hair growth. This method is effective, precise, and can be used on various parts of the body for long term, if not permanent, results.
While there’s a new at-home device being marketed everyday, the truth is that most are IPL and don’t even come close to the capabilities or safety of clinical devices. It’s like trying to compare the brightness of a led flashlight to the sun: it just doesn’t.
So, for the purposes of this guide, we’re only going to discuss clinical (aka professional) devices.
Comparing Different Types of Advanced Laser Technology
Clinical LHR involves various technologies, each with distinct mechanisms and applications. Here are the primary types:
1. Diode Laser
- Wavelength: Diode lasers typically operate at wavelengths around 800-810 nm.
- Target: The laser targets the melanin in the hair follicle, destroying it while sparing the surrounding skin.
- Application: Known for its efficiency in removing both light and dark hair for most skin colors.
- Advantages: High precision and effectiveness on coarse, dark hair while also being effective on lighter hair anywhere on the body.
- Results: Clinical studies show industry best results, lasting longer than 1-year with a 70-100% reduction rate.
2. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
- Wavelength: Unlike lasers that use a single wavelength, IPL utilizes a broad spectrum of light (500-1200 nm).
- Target: The light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, generating heat which destroys the follicle.
- Application: Versatile and can be used on various skin and hair types.
- Advantages: Suitable for a variety of skin tones and hair colors.
- Results: Studies show that while IPL is safe on a variety of skins, hair reduction is limited to 6 months with a 50% reduction rate on average.
3. Nd:YAG Laser
- Wavelength: Nd:YAG lasers operate at a wavelength of 1064 nm, which penetrates deeper into the skin.
- Target: This laser type is effective for darker skin tones as it can bypass melanin in the epidermis and target the hair follicle directly.
- Application: Considered to be the most painful due to the deeper penetration of light into the skin. Only effective for darker skin tones.
- Advantages: Safe for darker skin types. Effective for coarse hair.
- Results: Generally ineffective on lighter skin types, and may require 12 or more sessions to see results.
4. Alexandrite Laser
- Wavelength: Alexandrite lasers work at 755 nm.
- Target: The laser light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, making it effective for light to olive skin.
- Application: Only for use on lighter skin as it can damage or burn darker skin.
- Advantages: Fast pulses make it ideal for treating large areas.
- Results: Effective for light skin colors, but may change pigmentation of treated areas due to wavelength.
Comparing Different Types of Clinical Devices
A) InMode DiolazeXL:
- Technology: Diode (810 nm) laser with 3 stage sapphire cooling plate.
- Applications: It is particularly favored in clinical settings because 810 nm light is considered the gold standard for long-term hair elimination that is safe for all skin types.
- Advantages: The DiolazeXL has one of the largest treatment spot sizes which makes it the fastest device on the market, and is often described as being one of the most comfortable treatments because of its sapphire cooling tip. [Learn more about DiolazeXL]
B) Candela GentleMax Pro:
- Technology: Combines Alexandrite (755 nm) and Nd:YAG (1064 nm) lasers.
- Applications: It is versatile and effective for a wide range of complexions and hair colors. The Alexandrite tip is highly effective for light to olive shade skin, while the Nd:YAG laser is safe for darker skin.
- Advantages: The GentleMax Pro offers dual wavelengths, allowing for the treatment of many skin types.
C) Cynosure Elite:
- Technology: Combines Alexandrite (755 nm) and Nd:YAG (1064 nm)
- Applications: Suitable for various complexions, effective for both fine and coarse hair, and offers treatment versatility.
- Advantages: Dual-wavelength technology allows for effective treatment across different complexions. It also has adjustable pulse durations and spot sizes for very customized treatments.
Finding a Laser Hair Provider in the Treasure Valley
Choosing the Right Provider or Med Spa
Look for qualifications such as licensed provider, experience, and patient reviews to ensure you receive high-quality care.
Leading med spas often have a licensed physician on staff since many procedures are medical in nature, and offer complimentary services such as RF microneedling, IPL treatments, and IV therapy.
Average Treatment Cost
The average cost for professional laser hair removal services in Boise, Idaho can vary depending on the area and the number of treatments required. While not reflective of our clinic’s series of treatments, here are some typical prices for specific area packages:
- Upper / Lower Lip: $500
- Chin & Jaw: $1000
- Underarms: $1000
- Bikini area: $1000
- Full Arms: $2500
- Half Arms: $1500
- Full Back / Chest: $3000
- Full Legs: $3500
- Half Legs: $2000
- Brazilian: $1500
- Sideburns: $1000
Top Laser Hair Removal Providers in Boise & Meridian, ID
These are some of the best laser hair removal providers who offer permanent hair reduction services, and have ample hair removal experience.
- Skin N Tox (Meridian): 4.9-stars, managed by an experienced RN, use state-of-the-art DiolazeXL device (Diode), prices start at $400-$800 per treatment.
- Treasure Valley Aesthetics (Boise): 4.8-stars, managed by an experienced DNP, use Alma’s Harmony XL Pro device (Nd:YAG / Alexandrite), prices start at $199 per 30 minute session.
- Virasoap Natural Medicine (Meridian): 5-stars, managed by an experienced NMD physician, use state-of-the-art DiolazeXL device (Diode), prices start at $99 per treatment with result guarantee.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is a safe and effective option for smooth and hair-free skin. There are numerous qualified professionals who can help you achieve silky smooth skin with minimal hassle.
For me, it’s been a worthwhile investment now that I’ve discovered that advanced laser hair removal technology actually works, and I’m enjoying hair free skin. Finally!
An experienced medical aesthetics provider can guide skin treatment options. Our licensed physician offers comprehensive aesthetics consultations and free discovery calls. Learn more about Natural Medical Aesthetics and the aesthetic services that we offer in Meridian / Boise!
