Laser hair removal is one of the most popular aesthetic treatments today-and for good reason. It offers a long-term solution to unwanted hair, eliminating the need for constant shaving, waxing, or plucking. If you’re considering laser hair removal, Palo Alto Laser & Skin care will be sure to provide you with all of the answers you have been searching for..

At our clinic, we use the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus, widely regarded as one of the most effective and safest laser systems on the market. Treatments are performed by highly trained professionals: Carina, a registered nurse who became an aesthetic specialist after earning her degree from San Francisco State University in 2017, and Anupreet (“Preet”), a certified Physician Assistant with a Master’s in Clinical Medical Sciences from Barry University, following her undergraduate education at UC Davis.

Let’s get into your most asked questions:

1. HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?

Laser hair removal requires a series of sessions to be truly effective. That’s because hair grows in cycles, and laser energy only targets hairs in the active growth (anagen) phase.

• On average, 8-15 treatments are needed per area.
• Sessions are spaced 4–6 weeks apart to match your natural hair cycle.
• Some areas (like the bikini or underarms) may respond faster, while areas like the face or back may require additional treatments for optimal results.

2. HOW MUCH DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL COST?

Pricing varies depending on the area being treated. At Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care, we offer laser hair removal memberships which allows for 30% OFF all laser hair removal sessions and 50% OFF laser hair removal treatments during your birthday month!

We’re always transparent with pricing and offer consultations to help you understand your personalized plan.

3. IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL PAINFUL?

Most patients describe the sensation as a quick snap, like a rubber band lightly snapping against the skin. The Candela GentleMax Pro Plus features an integrated Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) that sprays a burst of cooling mist milliseconds before the laser pulse, making the experience much more comfortable.

For more sensitive areas or pain concerns, we recommend an over the counter numbing cream which we can wipe off for you in the office prior to treatment.

4. WILL IT WORK FOR MY SKIN TONE AND HAIR TYPE?

Thanks to the dual wavelengths of the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus, we can safely and effectively treat a wide range of skin tones, from very fair to deeper complexions.

The laser works best on dark, coarse hair, but we’ve seen great results on various hair types. During your consultation, we’ll assess your skin and hair to make sure you’re an ideal candidate and develop a personalized plan to meet your goals.

5. ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OR DOWNTIME?

Laser hair removal is a non-invasive treatment with minimal to no downtime. Common, temporary side effects include:

• Mild redness or swelling (similar to a light sunburn)
• Slight sensitivity in the treated area for a few hours

6. WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE AND AFTER MY TREATMENT?

Before your appointment:

• Shave the treatment area a maximum of 24 hours prior (do not wax or pluck) This allows us to treat the hair follicle instead of just zapping the hair. For hard to reach areas such as backs or shoulders, we offer in office shaving for a small fee as an option.
• Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for a minimum of 2 weeks.
• Skip any exfoliating treatments or retinoids for a few days in the treatment areas.

After treatment:

• Avoid hot showers, steam rooms, and saunas for 24 hours
• Avoid excessive sun exposure in the treatment area(s) for 2 weeks post treatment.
• Wear sunscreen daily, especially on exposed treated areas
• Avoid workouts or anything that causes excessive sweating on the day of treatment

7. WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED?

We can safely treat almost any part of the body, including:

• Face (upper lip, chin, sideburns, forehead)
• Underarms
• Legs
• Bikini/Brazilian
• Back, chest, shoulders, neck, abdomen
• Arms and hands
• Fingers, toes

If you have a specific area in mind, we can tailor your treatment to match your preferences.

8. WHAT TYPE OF LASER DO YOU USE?

We proudly use the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus, a top-tier dual-wavelength system that combines the Alexandrite (755nm) and Nd:YAG (1064nm) lasers. This technology allows us to treat all skin types effectively and safely. Its precision, speed, and built-in cooling system make it a gold standard in laser hair removal.

9. WHO PERFORMS THE TREATMENT?

Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Laser hair removal treatments are performed by:

Both providers bring extensive training and experience in aesthetic laser treatments and are known for delivering exceptional results. Both providers often treat an average of 4 laser hair removal patients every single day.

10. WHAT HAPPENS IF I MISS A SESSION OR STOP EARLY?

Consistency is key to getting the best results from laser hair removal. Missing a session may delay progress, but we’ll work with you to get back on track. If you decide to pause or stop, results may be incomplete—but any reduction you achieved will still be permanent for those treated hairs.

We offer flexible scheduling to help keep your treatment plan manageable and effective.

READY TO SAY GOODBYE TO UNWANTED HAIR?

Laser hair removal is an investment in convenience, confidence, and smooth skin. Whether it’s your first treatment or you’re ready to resume, at Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

 Book your consultation today and let Carina or Preet help you design a laser hair removal plan that fits your lifestyle, goals, and skin type—with results you’ll love.

Unwanted body hair has long been a common concern for many individuals, leading to the development of various hair removal methods over the years. Among these methods, laser hair removal has emerged as a highly effective and popular choice. Let’s delve into why laser hair removal is considered a game-changer in the world of skincare.

Lasting Results

One of the primary reasons why laser hair removal is so good is its ability to deliver long-lasting results. Unlike temporary methods like shaving, waxing, or depilatory creams, which only provide short-term solutions, laser hair removal targets hair follicles at the root. This process, known as selective photothermolysis, disables the follicles, leading to a significant reduction in hair growth over time. With multiple sessions, patients can achieve smooth, hair-free skin that lasts for months or even years.

Precision and Accuracy

Laser hair removal offers unparalleled precision and accuracy. Modern laser systems, such as the GentleMax Pro Plus (which Palo Alto Laser & Skin Care offers), utilize advanced technologies that can selectively target dark, coarse hair while leaving surrounding skin undamaged. This precision minimizes the risk of skin irritation, ingrown hairs, and other common issues associated with traditional hair removal methods. Additionally, lasers can treat large areas quickly, making it a time-efficient option for busy individuals.

Versatility Across Skin Types

Another key advantage of laser hair removal is its versatility across different skin types and tones. Traditional methods like waxing or electrolysis may be less effective or pose a higher risk of side effects for individuals with darker skin tones. In contrast, laser technology can be adjusted to suit various skin types, from fair to dark, thanks to innovations such as dual-wavelength systems. This inclusivity makes laser hair removal accessible to a wider range of patients.

Reduced Discomfort

Compared to some traditional hair removal techniques that can be painful or uncomfortable, laser hair removal offers a relatively comfortable experience. Modern laser systems incorporate cooling mechanisms, such as Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) and integrated Zimmer cooling, to minimize discomfort during treatment sessions. Patients typically describe the sensation as a mild tingling or snapping feeling, which is well-tolerated, especially considering the long-term benefits it provides.

Cost-Effectiveness in the Long Run

While the initial cost of laser hair removal may seem higher than other methods, such as waxing or shaving, it offers significant cost savings in the long run. Since laser treatments result in reduced hair growth over time, patients no longer need to spend money on frequent salon visits, razors, or hair removal products. This cost-effectiveness, coupled with the convenience of long-lasting results, makes laser hair removal a wise investment for many individuals.

Boost in Confidence

Beyond the practical benefits, laser hair removal can also boost confidence and improve self-esteem. Smooth, hair-free skin is often associated with a cleaner, more polished appearance, leading to increased confidence in social and professional settings. Many individuals who undergo laser hair removal report feeling more comfortable and confident in their own skin, enhancing their overall quality of life.

In conclusion, laser hair removal in Palo Alto is a game-changer in skin care due to its lasting results, precision, versatility, reduced discomfort, cost-effectiveness, and confidence-boosting effects. With advancements in laser technology and a growing demand for effective hair removal solutions, this method continues to gain popularity among individuals seeking a reliable and efficient way to achieve smooth, hair-free skin.