Choosing a Laser Clinic We cannot recommend particular establishments other than our own for laser hair removal treatments. However we have added some insight and tips to help you choose a hair removal clinic that's right for you. You can start by speaking to family and friends about their experiences with laser hair removal. It is important to go to a facility whose specialty is with laser hair removal, not with someone who only dabbles in the procedure or who has inferior equipment. Ideally you want someone who has expertise in this particular field, and it is important to emphasize that the laser is just a tool. Used in the hands of a skilled operator, it becomes another tool of their trade, used in the hands of someone who is not skilled, then it can become ineffective potentially problematic. Lasers Used If you have a darker skin type you will need to find a laser hair removal clinic that offers laser treatments with a laser that is suitable for your skin type. Some laser hair removal clinics advertise laser hair removal but use an IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) device. An IPL device is not truly a laser. You should research the IPL device before beginning treatment. At Laser Spa Group, we use the LightSheer diode laser, and have had excellent results for light, medium and also dark skin types. Knowledge of Procedure Lasers are the newest weapon for hair removal. The ideal candidate for laser work has fair skin and dark hair, but darker-skinned men and women can have good results with an experienced laser practitioner. Overall, laser hair removal is not very effective on blonde or white hair. Before you begin laser treatment, you should consult with a laser practitioner to determine if you are a good candidate. You also want to make sure that the person treating you (whether it's a doctor, registered nurse, or qualified aesthetician) is experienced. The three most important questions to ask during a consultation are: How many patients/clients have you treated? You'll want to find a clinic or spa that offers this treatment regularly, and not just as a one-off. What kind of results can I expect? Make sure your laser operator gives you a knowledgeable, thorough, yet realistic explanation of what's to come. Do you own the laser or rent it? If the practitioner or laser operator owns the laser, this indicates he or she has committed a significant amount financially and is more likely to use the laser as a regular part of his or her practice and business. If the laser operator cannot answer all your questions confidently, you should go elsewhere. The laser operator should be able to explain how the laser works, pretreatment and after care, and be able to make recommendations based on your skin type. Do not schedule an appointment until all of your questions have been answered in regards to your treatment protocol. Some clinics may answer all your questions over the phone, and others will require a consultation. At Laser Spa Group, all laser practitioners have been educated, trained and certified in performing laser hair removal and are happy to answer all your questions over the phone, via e-mail or in person for a complimentary consultation. Guarantees Beware of any clinic that guarantees permanent hair removal. Laser hair removal is permanent hair reduction, not permanent hair removal. Each individual responds to hair removal treatments differently and guarantees should not be given as even the best laser operator cannot predict the results you will obtain.