Laser Hair Removal
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Laser Hair Removal - East Bay
May 2011
Hello, I am looking to do laser hair removal on my legs and
bikinki line. I have very dark, thick hair that grows very
quickly and am so done with shaving every day. Cany anyone
recommend a place in the East Bay with which she has had
success? I also have no idea what it is costing these days
so info on that would be great too. Thanks! Hopelessly
Hairy
I did quite a bit of research and recently started going to
Janet at Diablo Laser Center in Walnut Creek (925-932-6442).
WWW.diablolaser.com. She has been doing laser procedures
for something like 20 years, trains doctors and runs an
extremely clean clinic. You have to make an appt. for a
consult before you can begin treatments....it is very
detailed and costs $25 which is applied to your first
treatment. During the consult, she will quote you her fee
for each service and explains the different types of lasers.
We've been in treatment for both upper lip/underarm hair
($175) and red spots on the face ($75). However,our hair is
not very thick, so the price may vary. (We each have a
different price range.) It can take from 5-8 visits and can
be painful, but the numbing cream helps. (My daughter is
much more sensitive.) I found Janet much more reasonable
than the Drs in Berkeley and figured she does this all day
long and probably has more experience. She has been honest
about the probable results (ie: my upper lip has lighter
hair and may only be reduced by 20%)
mel
Laser hair removal for teen daughter's facial hair
Jan 2011
My teenage daughter is embarrassed by her facial hair (upper
lip) and wants it gone. Can anyone recommend a good laser
hair removal place? East bay location is best, SF is ok too.
What should she expect in terms of pain, number of
treatments, etc. and what should I expect to pay? Thank you
so much!
My daughter and I just came home from our first laser
treatment for hair removal. Last month, I had laser for
removal of 'red spots' which involves a different laser.
After doing a bit of research on pricing and types of laser,
I chose Janet at the Diablo Regional Laser Center in Walnut
Creek. #925-932-6442. You HAVE to go first for a $25
consult where she explains the lasers in great detail. The
$25 is subtracted off your first bill. The office is
immaculately clean, very orderly and timely. Janet has been
doing this for years, I think originally for tattoo removal.
The commute is a pain as there are places in Berkeley, but
Janet pricing was almost half of some of the doctors around
Berkeley. Feel free to contact me if you want further
information! mel
Laser hair removal for bikini area
Jan 2011
I have been debating getting laser hair removal for the
bikini area for a long time - tired of shaving/waxing
embarrassing and uncomfortable regrowth etc. I was hoping to
hear some stories about personal experiences with laser hair
removal... Happy you did it? Disappointed? How much did you
remove, how many sessions did it take? Also I was hoping to
hear costs involved and clinic recommendations. I recently
had a consult with American Laser Center in Berkeley who
quotes a huge cost but then gives you a screaming deal if
you sign up today, etc. They were nice, professional and not
pushy, but I was put off by the amount of customer
complaints on line (not about Berkeley specifically but as a
corporation and other clinic sites - they have over 200
locations nation wide I think) Thanks for any
advice/recommendations!
Did it 10 years ago, one of the best things I have ever
done!! Works best if you have dark hair, light skin which is
what I had. Did my whole legs and bikini area. Took about 5
times to get rid of 98% of my hair, now just a few left, I
shave about once every 4 or 5 months and it takes just a
second.
Don't worry if you can't afford all 5 sessions right now
(they have to be spaced at least 6 weeks apart anyway). Even
if you can do just one session this year, the second next
year etc, DO IT!! Because it kills it during active growth
stage and since the first time you'll have the most hair,
you'll see the biggest result. So even if you can only
afford to do one session this year, you'll have
significantly less hair and it will be that much easier
dealing with shaving etc.
I love it, I love having smooth silky legs, I NEVER thought
I would have that!! No black nubs, no worry about hair for a
last minute change to shorts or bathing suit. No having to
shave before wearing capri length pants! Freedom!
Best money I ever spent!! I did it at Dr Berman's in Palo
Alto 10 years ago.
cathy
hi-
i actually posted here to ask about laser hair removal and
got some very helpful responses; they all basically said to
go for it, so i did. at the time there was a groupon for
aura skin care spa in sf- it was a hike to get there for
each appt. but only 10 min walk from the montgomery bart
station and well worth it. i loved the place. very clean and
professional and they are very gentle yet efficient. i
haven't done laser anywhere else so i can't compare it but
as a business i was impressed. it was nicer than the
fanciest doctors' offices i've been to. it feels like an
upscale med-spa. in terms of the actual treatment, i think
i got a package of 6 treatments. i would suggest getting 6-8
depending on your hair situation. i was/am thrilled with the
results. i still get some hair growth but it is soft,
sporadic, and totally manageable. i think if i went for
another round of 3 treatments it would completely disappear
but for now i am just so happy to have this not be an issue
for me. anon
I've been to several places for laser hair removal over the
years. Depending on your ethnicity and skin coloring, it
will be laser hair reduction, not removal. I still think
it's worth it. Of the 4 places I've been (one in Albany that
no longer exists, one in Benicia, and one in Mill Valley),
my favorite by far is Urban Allure, at 230 California St. in
San Francisco. I also buy Groupons or other deals on
Bloomspot when I see them, but mostly I go to Urban Allure.
They are friendly, their prices are very reasonable, and
they never try to sell me anything. Every other place I've
been tries to sell me products constantly. Tell them I sent
you; we'll both get 25% off, I think! Noel Plummer
I went to Urban Allure in San Francisco for bikini line
lasering. At the time they had a 'buy one get one free' deal
so I got four sessions of bikini work plus four free
sessions for underarms. I LOVE the results. Four sessions
isn't enough to make you completely hair-free, but it's
drastically reduced the amount of shaving I do and the
remaining hair is much finer and less noticeable. They
probably aren't the cheapest but if you sign up for their
mailing list they do have new specials each season that can
save you a lot of money. They also have Saturday hours and
are walking distance from BART. I found them to be very
professional, and was so happy with the results that I
bought my husband a package to get his back and shoulders
done. Go for it! laser lover
Laser Doc in Montclair has the best prices and the most
gifted estheticians. I did a lot of research
Reen
I highly recommend Dr. Elizabeth Lee in Berkeley at
artfulsurgery.com. I had both my underarms and bikini
lasered in her office. Not only was she amazing, the results
were incredible! I will be going back for hair removal on my
legs and I have already recommended her to several of my
family and friends. She is the best! Kristina
Dr. Elizabeth Lee offers laser hair removal. She's a
wonderful, down to earth and talented a plastic surgeon with
a full service practice including laser hair removal. Her
office is super friendly, too. You'd do 5-8 treatments
spread out over a year for 90% irradication (considered
complete). 510-704-2170. 2999 Regent St, Ste 401, Berkeley
CA 94705-2119
http://www.artfulsurgery.com/
anon
Did laser hair removal NOT work for you?
Jan 2011
After a frustrating experience, I'm wondering if laser hair
removal will ever work for me. Hoping to get advice from
people with similar hair/skin type and experience.
I have very fair skin. And very dark, very THICK hair. I
thought I was the 'perfect' candidate for laser hair
removal. I mostly want it on my legs, but finally decided to
take the initial plunge on chin/upper lip (less expensive,
part of body exposed more often).
I had six sessions on my chin/upper lip with Dr. Brozowski
in Berkeley. Not cheap. Big investment for me/our family.
Initially I was told that this would work great on me. As
time went on, I was told how chin area is toughest. After
6th session, here is where I am left.
I still get dark hairs on upper lip. Possibly as much as
pre-laser (hard to tell). But I am still shaving there
periodically (once/week or once/2 weeks). I was not told
that upper lip should pose any problem.
I still get LOTS of dark (and light) hairs on chin area. I
was fine with the light hairs remaining. But I'm dismayed
that I'm doing as much plucking as before (every day or two
plucking LOTS of hair!). And as many as 50% of these hairs
are dark. I'm really bummed at the lack of difference the
sessions had. But I'm willing to give up on my chin area.
So, here are my questions. Is it possible that a couple more
sessions would eliminate dark hairs on upper lip? Eight
sessions seems excessive to me, but I'm curious if others
with similar hair type (dark, very thick) have had to do
this many and if it's finally been successful.
Also, if I ever decide to make the expensive plunge of doing
my legs (I so often sadly avoid shorts, swimsuits - it's a
bummer), would it be worth it? The hair on my lower legs is
also very thick and dark (very fair skin). Would it also
take 6-8 sessions? Yikes! If I did 6-8 sessions, would it
actually make a difference. Cause again, after 6 sessions on
face, I've seen little difference.
Why hasn't this worked for me? Should I give it up, continue
to pluck my chin, and buy an electric razor for my legs?
Bummed and Confused - and still hairy
Laser hair removal was not very successful for me on the
upper lip but spectacularly successful on the legs. Not sure
exactly, guess the hair on my upper lips is overall lighter
and thinner. There were a couple dark ones, it helped a
little but not at all the same results as my legs.
My suggestion is to ask them to do a small patch on your
thigh or wherever it is particularly hairy - just 2 inches
by 2 inches or so. They should be able to do that for free
either next time you go in for your lip or just as a curtesy
to keep a customer. Then see how it works.
For my upper lip, it was very hard to tell what results I had.
But for my legs it was super clear. Your test-patch area
should grow back with noticably less hair. Give it 2 chances
and if you don't see a huge difference, then may it somehow
isn't for you.
anon
I would give it another try, but with another practitioner.
Laser did work for me (about 75%), but it did take about 8
sessions. One thing you did not mention is the timing of
your sessions. Hair has to be in ''growth'' phase for the
laser to work, and only about 30% of the hair is in this
phase at any one time. So you have to space out the appts
to get maximum result. Maybe your appts were too close
together? I went to Sandra (RN) at Dr. Aycock's office in
Walnut Creek.
Good Luck
I did laser hair removal on my legs with great success;
however, it did take at least 6-8 sessions. You say
''Yikes!!'' as if that is a lot, but that's what it takes. I
still get the occasional dark hair on my legs, which I just
pull out.
For my chin and upper lip, which are much smaller areas than
legs, I went with electrolysis. This was partly because I
couldn't face the idea of shaving those areas--I'd rather
have a few dark hairs there than constant stubble.
Electrolysis is even slower than laser hair removal. I've
probably had at least 20 (half-hour) sessions, and recognize
that it will probably require life-long occasional touchups
as advancing age results in new unwanted hairs on my chin.
(Isn't aging great?
I highly recommend Hagar Orren (whose office is across the
street from Monterey Market) for electrolysis. I also
recommend using a numbing cream on your upper lip half an
hour before you go in--that's a sensitive area!
Fighting unwanted hair, and mostly winning
I have had the same experience - with the same doctor! A
coincidence? I have 2 friends who saw someone else for their
laser hair removal and who are ecstatic with the results. I
gave up after 5 treatments with Dr. Brozowski because I was
seeing absolutely no decrease in hair production or the
thickness/coarseness of the hairs.
All that money, and I am still plucking 5 to 6 dark hairs
from my chin every day (not mention all the gray ones)!!
So I don't know if it's just me, or if there is another
doctor who could actually help.
Disappointed and Hairy
it didn't work for me either. afterwards they told me that
because I have PCOS (hormonal imbalance that causes excess
hair) it never would work. could have told me that before.
an electrolysis practitioner told me that secondary hair
(ie. not head/eyesbrows) gets worse with waxing/plucking
and that electrolysis can mange but will never eliminate
it. need to go to the source and manage the PCOS/hormone
imbalance first.
anon
Same here: I am very fair skinned with very dark hair, and
laser hasn't worked for me much. Granted, hair goes
through stages and the way I understand it they can be
destroyed only when they are in the ''active'' growing
stage. So, some of the hair you are seeing maybe those
that were asleep and didn't get zapped, and are ''waking
up'' now. You may need to have a few more treatments,
whatever time needed apart, to see some difference.
Also, the new hair may be forming as our bodies go through
hormonal changes. Even if the hair is destroyed, new may
grow later.
After many treatments, my laser person told me that some
people just don't respond as ''well'' as others, for no
obvious reason. So, I went back to electrolysis (on my
chin and lip) and that worked better. Again, as my
hormones change, I may very well get new ones in those
areas. For now, I am happy to be less hairy.
maybe try electrolysis instead??
sorry I don't have advice on hair removal, but in the end,
if it never works for you I have this advice-
You should NOT be shaving your upper lip! You should buy
some Sally Hansens wax (get the microwave kind) and wax your
lip. It leaves your skin smooth, not stubbly like a man's.
Alternatively, go to Benefit, on 4th street in Berkeley and
have them do it for you. I have thick dark hair and get it
done about every 4 weeks.
been there.
I am in the same situation as you, and it's a constant battle, and I'm
desperate for a solution! I have Norwegian skin but greek hair patterns,
wiry dark unwanted hair everywhere. Waxing worked for a couple years
but over time I've developed a large number of ingrown hairs which scar
and sometimes turn into keloids. It's very embarrassing and hard on my
self esteem. I would love to share tips and advice if you are interested,
and i am looking forward to the responses that will get posted next week. I
have not tried laser yet mainly because i have heard stories like yours,
that it would be a waste of money for women with our experience.
Christine.
A few years ago I had 5 laser hair treatments with Dr. Brozowski in the bikini
area. A year after the 5 treatments, all the hair had grown back. All of it!!! I
recently read some reviews on Yelp, and it was very enlightening. Maybe it's the
doctor's technique or equipment that is the problem.
Trying another doctor
Bummed and Confused- I am the manager at the American Laser
Center in Berkeley and many times I get clients in my
consultation who have been misinformed about the realistic
expectations of Laser Hair Removal. Honestly, there is no
real way of being able to tell a client they will only need
X amount of treatments. It is very difficult, until we
actually start tracking your progress, how quickly you will
respond to laser. Yes, the chin area can be a difficult
area to treat. The whole face can be very resistant to the
laser for a few different reasons-
1. For women, hormones and hormone fluctuations are the
main reason for the growth and as women, go through many
fluctuations (pregnancy,menopause,medications,etc.) It is
very hard to guarantee against new growth from changes we
go through the course of our lives.
2. In my clinic we are cautious with your facial
treatments. It's your face and the face is always exposed
to the environment so we use more conservative settings on
the face to make sure you are getting a safe and effective
treatment.
3. In some cases, the hair is not as thick on the face as
other areas of the body. It should respond more quickly
but, it is hard to tell until we can start tracking your
progress.
With the experience I have had with my clients (of all
ages, complexions, and amount of hair) I have seen very few
85%-95% reduction in only 6 treatments on the face. The
face is a process. You WILL see reduction but you may have
to be patient and it may take several treatments, as well
as require sparatic touch-ups throughout the course of your
life since it is most commonly hormone induced.
A lot of women will start with lip and chin because they
are smaller areas and want to see if the laser will work
for them before moving on to other areas of the body. The
face is a whole different experience than the rest of the
body. Underarms, Bikini,legs,arms see much more dramatic
results than the face and much faster. If you have more
questions please contact me I am more than happy to
answer your questions/concerns. From someone who has worked
with over 1,000 clients and had a great deal of laser
treatments done on myself I can tell you that YES laser
will work for you we just need to customize a plan for you
and once we find what works it can change your life.
Posting for Emily who I highly recommend. Emily Luna,
American Laser Centers, 3017 Telegraph Ave 230, Berkeley,
CA 94705
Phone- (510) 225-0064
http://www.americanlaser.com
Elizabeth
Laser worked great for me, but not completely-I still need
to go back at some point for a couple of ''touch-up''
sessions. This is not unexpected from my perspective in
that I have/had a lot of hair. I will say, though, that if
you avoid shorts b/c of leg hair, that the best $ I have
ever spent was for full legs laser. I went from shaving
every day, to shaving every couple of weeks, and I don't
really worry about it much anymore. It's not perfect, and
I still need a touch up, but I'm no longer simian in my
appearance. I don't know about your specific appearance. I
did use Dr Brozowski, and I while I have nothign to
compare it too, I was unable to convey to her that going
over one spot on my knee but ignoring the other spots was
not helpful (and while the knee seems hair-free, I seem to
have that one strip of hair left on the leg where I
coudln't convince her she'd missed it). But having gone
through years of electrolysis, laser is by far the best
thing I've ever done for myself. And in the next couple of
months I may do a bit of touch up. Keep in mind too, that
your hormone levels also determine how much new or
regrowth you go through.
Laser hair removal for hair on chin
Nov 2010
Does anyone have any recent experience with laser hair
removal? I'd like to have hair removed on my chin, as I am
constantly dealing with ingrown hairs and am now having some
scarring. Can someone recommend a quality place to go that
is not unreasonably expensive? Preferably in the Berkeley
area? Also, I am interested in finding out whether anyone
has had success with only 1-2 treatments or if this will be
a long term commitment? wishing to be hair-free
Aesthetic Laser, 490 Post St. #1701, SF, 415 956-0111.
Inexpensive (compared with other laser places that I
investigated) and they do a good job. You may want to use
anesthetic cream on your chin about 45 minutes before your
appointment. You can arrive early and they will give you
the cream and you can apply it and sit in a private room
until your appointment time. Laser hair removal works best
on people with dark hair and light skin, but I believe there
are now lasers that also work on people with tan skin. You
can ask them about that. It takes more than 1-2 treatments
to get rid of hair. You will probably need at least 4.
Happy and less hairy
I used the Tria home system of laser hair removal. It
worked really well and now 11 months later, completely hair
free. I know what a trying problem it is and I know how
grateful and absolutely pleased I am with the results.
Be aware that Tria is approved for use below the nose in
Europe BUT in the U.S. it is NOT approved for use anywhere
on the face. So, you'll need to decide what you're
comfortable with. The Tria costs around $600 and takes 5- 8
months to complete. One last thing. Because of the way
heat is attracted to dark pigmant, it is only safe for light
to medium skin tones.
Good Luck!
Robin
Bikini-area laser hair removal
Nov 2010
Hi,
I have been toying with the idea of bikini-area laser hair
removal for years and am on the fence for a couple of
reasons. For one, the cost. Have you done it? How much was
it, all said and done? Second, I am bi-racial and y hair is
dark and my skin is a light-to-medium brown. Would it work
on me? Or would it scar my skin? Do you know a great
person to go to/consult with? Berkeley/Oakland/SF would be
the best.
Thanks!
Anon.
Hi, in regards to your question about laser hair removal, it
is GREAT! I have had my underarms and bikini done and
almost never shave. Plus the skin in soft and not prickly!
Actually, I liked it so much that I opened up a spa with a
partner (we are both physicians) in Santa Rosa. We do laser
hair removal and skin rejuvenation and the results we see
are amazing. I know Santa Rosa is quite a ways to travel (a
little over an hour) but if you would like to come in for a
consult we'd be happy to talk to you. There is a lot of new
technology these days, and we can treat darker skin. I am
sure there are good places in the Berkeley area too but I
don't know of any personally. There is a larger chain that
I would avoid. My recommendation is to call around, see
what prices are like and what services they offer. You will
likely need at least 3 treatments and all hair removal is
really permanent hair reduction (although we can usually
reduce it to almost nothing). Good Luck! And if you want to
check out our services/web page it is morpheusmedspa.com.
Laser OR Electrolysis for teen daughter's facial hair
July 2010
My 15 year old daughter has been waxing her upper lip for about four years
now. But, her hair grows very quickly, and within 10 days, she has stubble. She
ends up waxing every two weeks. It is simply too expensive to keep this up
forever!
I am looking for a more permanent solution for her, hopefully local (El Cerrito,
Albany, Berkeley). I have three questions:
1. Which is better: Laser or Electrolysis?
2. Which is less painful?
3. Can you recommend a local business that will do a teenager?
Thanks!
Hairy mama, too!
I shouldn't reveal my sources ( because then when I call and try to get an
appt., they'll be all booked up), but I suggest you contact Janet at Diablo
Regional Laser Center. She'll give you a consult for $25 applicable to your
first visit. Usually red or blond hair needs electrolysis. The other colors
need
laser, but let her be the judge.
Does it hurt? Yes. What does it feel like? It feels like someone is putting a
red hot needle into your skin. I have had a lot of bikini and leg work done and
this is what it feels like. Janet says other parts of the body are not as
sensitive. They do give you a scrip for a compound pharmacy numbing cream
that works better than anything I ever got from a derm, but there is still
discomfort.
The number of treatments will vary based on how hairy.
Diablo Regional Laser Center
1981 North Broadway #270
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Phone: 925-932-6442
Janet Fan
I have done laser and electrolysis and feel that laser is by far the way to go.
It
can be more expensive up front but less painful, more efficient and very
effective. Electrolysis is hair removal one by one which I find more painful.
Both
can leave scars if the practitioner is not experienced. I think the lasers are
even
better now with darker pigmented skin than they used to be, and laser
equipment is better than when it first came out. I have used Kaiser and Laser
Center of Marin and both were good. Laser Center has periodic specials. Good
luck.
If the hair is dark, definately go with the laser
treatments. Laser will not work on blonde (or gray) hair.
I have had both - electrolysis years ago, which is a slow
and painful process, and laser more recently. The upper lip
is very painful, but at least the laser treatment goes fast.
It felt like someone snapping you with a rubberband. Ouch.
But better than each individual hair being zapped by a
needle. Your daughter will need 3 -
4 sessions, so look for a ''special'' at one of the laser
centers. I would also suggest she uses numbing cream before
the treatment. been there - done that
Is laser hair removal permanent?
March 2010
I would love to hear from people who have had laser hair removal from Laser
Center of Marin. Mostly, did you find it permanent after a year or more time has
gone by? What kind of laser did they use (if you know)? They seem competitive
price wise, but want to make sure it is really lasting. Thanks much!
I didn't go to Marin but part of your question was if laser
hair removal is permanent and I wanted tell you - yes! it is
permanent! And if you have any embarassment or shame issues
around your hair like I did I would encourage you to do it
ASAP! I wish I had never waited!
Even if you can only afford to do one session a year (it
usually takes 4-6 times to get all the hairs because it only
kills the follicle during the growth stage)you will notice a
big difference particularly with the first and second
sessions as this is when you have the most hair - so begin now!
A big benefit with laser removal is my leg is now silky
smooth - I never thought I'd have that!
Laser hair removal was a life changer for me, I used to be
embarrassed about my legs and even wearing capri pants
required daily shaving (with still that stubby feeling) now
I shave about 1 time every 6 months to get the strays - I
could just go back for that 5th session but haven't bothered.
anon
MD. who does laser hair removal
Feb 2010
I am looking for names of MD's in the area who do laser hair
removal who folks recommend. I know about Dr.
Brozowski...anyone else?
thanks.
You do not need to go to an MD to have this done. My
experience is that the MD's - including the one you already
know about - charge you about 40% more and don't understand
pain management.
Please check Diablo Regional Laser Center in Walnut Creek.
Janet is the best there is in this area. She is extremely
detail-oriented and very very good at what she does.
http://diablolaser.com/
For $25, you get a consultation and the fee is applied to
your first visit. You get a 'scrip for special numbing
creme from a compounding pharmacy in Concord -- about $50.
After 10 years of serious contemplation and investigation,
Janet is going to be the one to treat the Rosacea on my
face. I don't trust anyone else. Good Luck
I am a plastic surgeon on Pill Hill in Oakland, and we have
a full array of lasers in the office, including the
GentleMax, a state-of-the art machine for laser hair
reduction. One of its nicest features is that it has
built-in cold spray that briefly numbs an area a few
milliseconds before the laser zaps the hair. This machine
can be used for all skin types, although very pale hair does
not usually respond as well. Most people need 5 or 6
treatments, although each treatment can make a nice
difference. While I do treat patients with this laser, Jude
Rowe, RN, in our office is terrific and very gentle.
Michael
We provide laser hair removal in my office. I was asked to
do this by my patients who wanted access to this service,
but were concerned about the safety of going to a spa to
have it done. I work with a nurse, Marilyn, who has the
experience of 8 years of working with various lasers. I see
every patient in consultation before providing any laser
treatment, Marilyn does the actual lasering. She is much
more expert than I, as a plastic surgeon, would ever be as
she does only this and I prefer to be operating rather than
zapping. She is the only person I trust my patients to; when
she is on vacation, we do not provide laser services in the
office.
Elizabeth
Laser hair removal East Bay - Hourly fee?
Dec 2009
I have had laser hair removal performed on my legs in a place in Santa Clara,
and they charged by the limb. Now I just have some small areas here and there
that need touch up, and I just want someone to treat those areas, rather than
charging me for an entire 2 legs. Has anyone had a good experience with a
laser hair removal place in Berkeley or East Bay that they could recommend? Do
you know of any places that charge hourly fees, rather than by limb?
Hairy legs
I just read in Good Housekeeping that the pad that you rub on your leg for
hair removal was not that great. They gave it a thumbs down. I think they
said
it was spotty, and most preferred sticking to whatever removal system they
already had.
You have already had the majority of your hair removal done, so what you need
now are touch up treatments. In my office, we do not charge by the hour, but
we do have a touch-up fee schedule where we charge a small office visit fee
and then by the pulse. That way, if you need 10 hairs zapped, you pay for 10
zaps, not the whole treatment area.
Elizabeth
Laser hair removal at Kaiser
Sept 2009
I received a few laser treatments with Nurse Marilyn at Kaiser in Oakland. My
understanding is that Marilyn visits other salons and doctor's offices. Kaiser charges
$150 for the visit and $1/zap.
Does anyone else receive laser treatment with Marilyn? Can you share the cost at the
other location? Thanks!
Also for laser hair removal, I am a big fan of the Laser Center
of Marin. They specialize in lasers and are very competitive
price-wise, especially if you compare them to kaiser which I
did. Also you can get in with short notice unlike kaiser.
www.marinlaser.com
sara
Laser hair removal
August 2008
Does anyone know of a physician office where I can get laser hair
removal and treatment of the small vessels around my nose? I have had
experience with spa laser services and have not been comfortable in
that environment. I also would like a place where the same person
treats me each time so there is consistency. Thanks for your help in
advance.
Anon.
I have been pleased with Diablo Laser Center in Walnut Creek. I've had
broken capillaries on my nose and chest treated with great results. The
treatments are ususally adminstered by an RN, Janet, but there is an MD
associated with the practice. I have not had laser hair removal there, but
Janet says that is a large part of her business. Janet is no-nonsense and
the environment is 100% medical office and 0% spa. The treatments are
uncomfortable - this is not a photo-facial spa treatment - but they are
immediately effective and lasting.
I found the cost really reasonable too.
Hope this helps.
rb
If you prefer to do laser hair removal at home you could try
www.triabeauty.com. Good luck!
Dawn
June 2008
I'm wondering if anyone has done laser hair removal on areas other than
legs? I have super hairy belly and around my nipples. End up plucking
the latter which is painful and looks/feels not that great as they grow
back. Is it safe? Super expensive?
Fuzzy
Several years ago I had laser hair removal on my legs, armpits
and bikini area. It was expensive but I'm very happy with the
results. After 3 treatments, I would say that 95% of the
unwanted hair in my bikini area and lower 1/2 of my calves
(brown hair) was gone. It also got rid of ~50% of my armpit
hair and ~50% of the hair on the upper 1/2 of my calves (which
is blond). Basically the dark hair absorbs the laser energy
better which kills the hair follicle. So the darker hair you
have, the better.
Some people can get changes in skin pigmentation. I got this
only in my bikini area. You can use bleaching creams but it
didn't bother me and it's slowly faded away.
In answer to your question about laser around your nipples--you
can do that and it isn't painful.
I had my laser done at Dr. Elizabeth Lee's office in Berkeley.
I was happy with the results but I did feel like it was quite
expensive. I would suggest calling around for prices and then
having consultations a couple places.
anon
I had laser hair removal on my bikini areas, it wasnt painful. however, it
wasnt very effective either. I have PCOS with excess hair, after 6 sessions
I was told that it wasn't going to make much more of a difference. so,
before you try it, make sure you don't have PCOS
anon
I have been told by doctors that really understand pain (OB/GNY,
Endodontist) that I have a very high pain tolerance.
I found laser hair removal to be pretty painful even with the topical
anesthetic. It felt like someone was sticking both hot and cold pins
into my leg. But, the good news is that there is no lingering pain.
Once the laser moves off the area, the pain is immediately gone. I
also had no sensitive areas after the treatment was over. But there
was the scent of burnt hair and I looked like I had just gotten
waxed....reddened hair follicles.
No matter where you go, I encourage you to find out what type of laser
they will use. IPL is NOT good. Also, find out exactly how big the
treatment area is going to be. Really, what is the bikini area? Ask.
Make sure they are specific in the answer.
As an aside, I was very pleased with the result.
Zapped That.
May 2008
I would love to get updated recommendations for somewhere to get laser hair
removal on my chin. I'm a fair-olive complexion with v dark hair. The most
recent posting here is two years old... I am in SF but am also open to
Berkeley/Oakland/Emeryville clinics that stay open off-hours (weeknight or
weekend). I have heard Kathleen Welsh in SF is good but that they always run
very, very late with appointments and try to upsell stuff. Anyone familiar
with this place? Does this sound fair?
I am seeing some places in SF that advertise really cheap services, like, $60
per session for chin. Is that too good to be true? Maybe not real laser?
Also, I am totally befuddled by some clinics that say, it seems, that you have
to let hair grow out WEEKS before your first appointment. I don't think I
could go even one week without plucking without looking like a gorilla. Anyone
have any insight into this waiting time?
Thanks!
Hair Despair
Aesthetic Laser, 490 Post St. #1701, 415 956-0111. Inexpensive
(compared with other laser places that I investigated) and good.
It won't work well if the hair is plucked because the laser works
by heating up the root. However, you can shave the area (in
fact, you're supposed to shave before the laser treatment). You
may want to use anesthetic cream on your chin about 45 minutes
before your appointment. You can arrive early and they will give
you the cream and you can apply it and sit in a private room
until your appointment time.
Less hairy than before
Dr. Elizabeth Lee's office is the best in the east bay for this.
The service is top notch and you need to be careful when you have
olive skin (I believe it can cause some temporary but not so
beautiful pigmentation if not done right). I'm not sure about
those $60 treatments in SF. That sounds sketchy. Call her
office and ask about it-- they are super friendly so I'm sure
they can explain the difference. The office number is 704-2170.
maureen r.
April 2008
Does anyone know of a good Lazer Hair removal practice. I have used
one office and the lazer was not strong and it did not improve my
problem. Berkeley, Albany, El Cerrito area.
Judy
Check out the Laser Center of marin (www.marinlaser.com).
They have been around a long time, have a nice clean facility
and have good prices. They also have a bunch of different
lasers for different skin types.
Taylor
March 2008
Has anyone had any experience with permanent hair removal? I have
very thick hair on my legs and an wondering: a)would it work on thick
hair, b)will it last, and for how long? c)Does it hurt, and d), does
anyone have any places to recommend it be done?
Oh, and is it very expensive?
Thanks
anon
Laser hair removal works on dark hair on lighter skin. The laser has to
''recognize'' the hair. I've had facial hair removal done and it's been
FABULOUS. I wish I'd been able to do it when I was a teen...
It covers a lot more ground than electrolysis. YES IT HURTS!!!
It feels like a rubberband being snapped on your skin...but it's quick and if
the practitioner puts ice on it right away it eases the pain.
There is a new machine that doesn't hurt. Dr. Kawai used it in her Albany
practice(she was murdered last year) but I don't know who bought her equipment.
The zapped hairs/roots do not grow back, but if there is lighter hair around
it, those hairs will grow back (you have to shave before or else the heat burns
the hair and it smells like burnt hair)...You have to go a bunch of times for
touch ups till it's all done. I highly recommend it.
I now go to the Skin Care Center on Apian Way at Terra Hills Rd.
It's not cheap....Typically $150.00 for 15-30 minutes, depending on the place.
I found the Skin Care Center to be pretty reasonable (it's been a while since
i''ve been there so I don't remember how much I paid). Good luck.
hairy no more
I did laser hair removal in 2003-2004 and was really pleased with the results.
I did it on my legs and bikini line. I had done electrolysis before that, but
found it extremely painful and extremely slow-going.
My understanding is that your success rate with laser hair removal is
determined more by the contrast between your skin and hair color than by the
thickness of the hair. I'm pale and my hair is relatively dark, so I was an
ideal candidate for it.
For some reason the effects have lasted a lot longer on my legs than on my
bikini line. In fact, I was noticing the other day that I really only have a
few hairs left on my legs and went from having to shave every other day to once
a week, maybe. I could really go weeks without shaving, but those individual
hairs get long after a while.
The laser doesn't feel great, but that all depends on your tolerance for pain.
For especially sensitive areas I used LMX lidocaine cream (bought it at Costco,
through the pharmacy, but doesn't require a prescription). To get the cream to
work properly you have to occlude it, which basically involves putting it on an
hour before the laser session and then wrapping it with plastic wrap to get it
to soak into the skin. That part's a total pain and can be very messy, but for
wimps like me it was the best solution. The LMX cream is also pretty pricey.
The laser itself was expensive, but so, so worth it in the long run. I do think
it's getting cheaper and plan to get more of my body done when I'm not pregnant
as I am now. I did it at Kaiser in Walnut Creek. The nurse who did it said you
didn't have to be a Kaiser patient to get the service done there but I've read
that Kaiser has since dropped laser procedures altogether. I have no idea how
accurate that info is.
Good luck!
Anon
I have gone through quite a bit of permanent laser hair removal with the
company Hair Today Gone Tomorrow (unfortunately, they're only located in the
Midwest) on different parts of my body.
What color is the hair on your legs and what color is your skin? Generally, the
thicker and darker the hair is, and the lighter your skin is, the better the
treatments work. Permanent hair removal isn't completely permanent. Even after
you complete your treatments, they usually recommend that you do a touch up
treatment once every year/ half a year. However, I finished my treatment on my
legs over a year and a half ago and I still haven't had to do a touch up.
Your leg hair grows in approx. 7 cycles (each one takes 1-3 months to grow
depending on the person). This means that you need about 7 treatments (spaced
out) to see a significant difference. So, it does take time. But you DO see a
great difference. I considered myself pretty hairy before and now I have very
''normal'' looking arms, and legs that need shaving only now and again. If I
don't shave, you can really only see the remaining fine hairs if you take a
good look. (The hairs that remain after laser hair removal are only the most
light/most fine hairs).
If hair has been a constant source of annoyance/agony/etc. for you, I say do
it. Even though it was expensive, I am so very glad that I did it. In the long
run it will save you a lot of time and can actually save you money. If you wax,
for example, the cost for full legs would be $60-$100. And then, depending on
how fast your hair grows you have to continue to go back again and again for
your whole life. You can get the full set of laser treatments on your legs and
see a huge (practically) permanent difference for around $1000 (maybe more,
maybe less) so in the end it can cost much less than waxing. I'm not sure about
the exact price because I purchased my package around 4 years ago (I think
prices have gone down since then) and I had multiple areas done, all included
for around $5000: full legs (including feet), full arms (including hands), and
extended bikini.
It does hurt, but not any more than waxing. It feels like someone snapping you
with a rubber band, lighter or harder, depending on how sensitive the area is.
For me, it barely hurt on my legs, the only part that was sensitive were my
ankles.
I hope this information is helpful!
anon
a)would it work on thick hair: Yes, especially if you have dark hair and light
skin (the contrast helps the laser target the hair more effectively. b)will it
last, and for how long?: It's permanent, but you have to get it done a bunch
of times (at least 5). After each time, you will have less hair; some people
do it a few times and the reduction in hair is good enough and they stop.
c)Does it hurt: Yes, but less than labor. :-) I go early and put anesthetic
cream (which they sell) on the areas to be treated, which helps. It hurts less
than waxing. d), does anyone have any places to recommend it be done?:
Aesthetic Laser (in SF, a few blocks from Powell St. BART): 415 956-0111. Tell
them the formerly hairy mother of two from BPN referred you.
Do the laser hair removal--you won't regret it. I just wish it had been
available when I was younger. It would have saved me a lot of angst about my
hairy legs.
No longer hairy
Jan 2008
Can anyone recommend a good laser hair removal place (preferably in the
East Bay that doesn't cost an arm and leg)? I am currently going to a
dermatologist in Walnut Creek and she is charging $350 per appt. which
is too expensive.
thanks
I am having great -- and very affordable -- results at a place in SF
called Neoskin, which is just outside the Montgomery BART station. I
take the BART there every 6 weeks or so for a treatment and I am quite
happy.
I'd gotten an estimate at a clinic in Berkeley and was quoted $2,300.
Neoskin is doing the exact same job for $675, which covers 12
treatments with no expiration date. I'm durrently on my 6th or 7th
treatment with them and have seen dramatic reduction.
Check the alt-weeklies for ads from Neoskin. They are having a price
special right now. You can email me offlist if you have any questions.
Lisa
Sept 2007
Has anyone used one of these ''inexpensive'' laser hair removal clinics like, for
example, Neoskin, for the bikini and/or legs? They offer packaged deals at a single
price for up to 12 treatments. Most of the recommendations on BPN are at doctors
offices which are substantially more expensive. If anyone has used an inexpensive
alternative, I'd love to hear about it. Also, does anyone know if the
techniques/machines used the same?
End of Summer Thoughts
I am in the middle of a 12-session treatment at Neoskin and I am very very
happy. I am paying a flat rate of 75 for what a clinic in Berkeley wanted
to charge me ,300 for. Yes you read that right.
- dariwali
March 2007
I would like to have the fine hairs on my upper lip removed, but am not
sure the best
way to have it done. I don't want to do wax or bleach. Can anyone
recommend
someone for laser hair removal for this type of procedure?
anonymous
I've been going to Aura Skin Care on San Pablo ave in Albany in
teh Alta Bates medical building.
The treatements have been SO effective for me. It works best on
dark coarse hair medium to light complexion. The finer hairs
take a little longer. At Aura they now have a new and better
laser machine that doesn't hurt. WHat a difference.
The number there is 527-3739 Good luck
no more moustache
I saw Dr. Laurie Schweitzer in Berkeley her office is just
behind Alta Bates for laser hair removal. Her office number is
510-548-1717
Aniesha
Epi Center at 450 Sutter St. in San Francisco is very reasonable
and professional. $99 for lip & chin hair removal. Go in 1/2
hour early to put on free numbing gel and you'll only feel a hot
zap for a few seconds and VOILA! You'll have to go back a few
times, but it's so worth it! I can't believe folks still suffer
thru electrolysis and waxing when this is so much easier and
cost-efficient. 415-362-4754.
Hair-free & Happy
March 2006
Hi- I am a woman in my mid-30s and would like to get the facial hair above my
lip removed permanently and wondered if anyone can provide me with good
recommendations for this- probably a laser hair removal place?. Cost is an
issue for me as well and I'd love to hear about your experience with the person
you send me info. about. Also I have a patch of little mole-like tissue which
looks to most people like acne but is not- I have had it since I was a child and
would finally like to get it removed. Is this what laser resurfacing is for? What
exactly IS laser resurfacing and is it painful? I'd love recommendations on this
as well! Thank you so much BPN friends. Kathryn
Try contacting Myrna Taiariol, at Tribez Salon. She's been
doing skin care for years and is deeply knowledgable about all
matters dealing with skin. Her number in Danville is (925)212-
3150. Please don't be put off by the distance. She's worth
every minute of your trip!
Julie
I've been getting laser hair removal on my face at Aura Skin
Care (they're in the phone book). They are on San Pablo avenue
in Albany in that big medical building before the plaza(west
side of street).
The woman I see is Deirdre but there are others who do it too.
I've been extremeley satisfied. I have an olive complexion with
dark hair. My upperlip and chin hair have plagued me most of my
adult life. I've done electrolysis (too painful and time
consuiming) and bleaching over the years.
I''ve had 4 sessions so far. I paid for 6 in advance to get a
discount. It takes 4-6 sessions to do a complete job.
It's not cheap, but cheaper than it used to be. It's $150.00 per
session at Aura. It was worth it to me to get this taken care
of. I LOVE not seeing dark hair on my uper lip and chin (and
cheeks).
Go for it!!
happy to have hairless face
For laser hair removal, I recommend The Laser Center of Marin
in Corte Madera. I have done my face, legs and bikini and have
had great results. The prices are competitive, the staff is
great and the facility is very clean (pet peeve). Check out
their website at www.marinlaser.com. They also do a lot of
other services including Restylane, skin tightening and
chemical peels. I have had treatments at another facility
before and had a bad experience. I suggest you visit the clinic
and make sure you are comfortable before committing to a
treatment package. Also, stay away from the chain clinics like
Sona. I had a friend that got screwed when the clinic she was
going to (Sona in SF) went out of business without warning.
Taylor
April 2006
Has any one tried Laser hair removal or any other cosmetic
services at Kaiser San Francisco? Let me know how your
experience was . Thanks
Tia
I've been to a few laser centers and Kaiser was my first. They
charge by the pulse which sounded good, but it turned out to
much more expensive than going to one of the laser centers.
Also, the doctor that did the procedure did not seem real
comfortable with the laser and, after talking to him, realized
doesn't do that many procedures. The treatment ended up not
being that effective. Now after having treatments with an RN, I
would choose an experienced RN over a non-experienced physician
in a heartbeat.
Taylor
Kaiser has a very good center for these treatments. Good prep and
education. Good staff. The laser hair removal process has
improved over the last three years, but keep in mind several
facts. Several treatments will be necessary, and the elective
min. charge is quite high ($500.) for even a small area. They
may allow you to combine several areas to meet the minimum. In
addition, light hair will not be affected! If you have a
combination hair color, light and dark hairs, for removal,
current lasers will only affect dark/darker color, leaving the
light hairs intact. It takes six weeks between treatments, and
you have to be treated with the hair to be removed at 1/4 ''
length. For dark haired men or women, this is quite effective.
For fair haired individuals, not as effective and more expensive,
due to even more multiple treatments. Plan to go when you don't
have to socialize prior to treatment for a week, as you have to
let hair grow out.
Fair haired
July 2005
I'm very interested in getting my facial hair treated with
laser. I have semi-dark skin, and I have hair practically all
over my face. Does anyone know if all the facial areas can be
treated with laser? Any recommendations for a good place? Has
anyone tried Aura Skin on San Pablo for hair removal? Any ideas
what it might cost me? Thanks a lot.
Toni
I highly recommend Advance Laser Clinics on 2397 Shattuck Ave.
486-1460.
My husband is having his back done, 2 sections so far they
recommended 6 for him.
It is looking great, he gets red for maybe 24h.
After that you can't tell it was done except for less hair.
Hairless husband
May 2005
I am interested in having my bikini line hair permanently
removed using laser treatments. The last recommendation I found
on this subject was more than a year ago. I live in Oakland
and would be willing to go to Berkeley for the service. Anyone
have a good recommendation?
hoping to be hairless down there
I know you said you were looking for somewhere in Oakland or
Berkeley, but I found a place in SF that is way cheaper than any
of the places I called in the East Bay. Aesthetic Laser
Concepts, 450 Sutter (Suite 2433) @ Powell, 415 956-0111. You
can pay extra to get anesthetic cream that you apply about an
hour before the lasering; I definitely recommend doing that
unless you have high pain tolerance.
Hair today, gone tomorrow
Hi! I've been going to The Laser Center of Marin -
http://www.marinlaser.com/. Their prices are very reasonable,
the procedure is done by an RN, the office is quiet and clean.
If you have any questions about the procedure feel free to
contact me.
Hairless and loving it!
ritter
I have been going to Advanced Laser Clinics. They are a
franchise opperation and their prices are resonable and they use
the newest laser technology. THey just opened an office in
Berkeley, but I've been going to Sausalito (which I'd recommend
just because the atmosphere there is like a spa!). Go to the
website www.advancedlasercinics.com and then click locations and
search for Berkeley. Beware: It HURTS! Get some numbing cream
and take a vicodin before you go.
Rebecca
The office of Elizabeth Lee, MD, is the best place you can go in
the East Bay for laser hair removal. Her office number is
704-2170. Everyone I know who has gone to her has had a very
positive experience.
Maureen
I recently went to a new laser hair removal salon in SF, called
Sona MedSpa. I did the first treatment (in what will probably be
5-6 treatments) for bikini and underarm. Thought it's too early
to tell you the final results, I was very happy with this initial
visit. They are extremely professional, informative and pleasant.
I was a little nervous because of previous pain-managment issues
with electrolysis. This was MUCH better and will ultimately
happen much more quickly. Already, one treatment has made a
difference.
SonaMedSpa is at 415-986-9100 and you can check them out on the
Web at www.SonaMedSpa.com/SanFrancisco.
Hirsute No More
Feb 2004
I am interested in having my bikini line hair permanently
removed preferrably through laser hair removal rather than
electrolysis. Right now I have to have it waxed often, leaving
me with ingrown hairs, not to mention the pain of the waxing
itself. I'm wondering if anyone out there has had this done (I'd
like to hear about results), and if anyone can recommend a good
place to have it done. Any information would be very helpful...
thanks
FYI, it may take more than one session. but after that, it is
permanent. i do not have a recommendation about where to go
however.
anon
I had laser hair removal done a year ago, and would do it again
in a minute! The results are amazing: my skin in smooth and
hair free, and I've had no regrowth. Now I go swimming or on
vacation and don't even think about it. I'm so glad the hassle
of waxing, ingrown hairs and regrowth are over. I honestly wish
I had done it years ago, but the technology was not very good
until recently. For me, it took five treatments to get get all
the hair, which, while not cheap, was certainly less expensive
than a lifetime of waxing or shaving. It's also a LOT cheaper
than electrolysis, which takes forever and is painful. The
laser can be uncomfortable, but hurts less than waxing, and you
have the option to use a numbing cream if you want.
Kathryn Carron at
Avenue Electrolysis ~ is highly recommended
4331 Piedmont avenue 94611
510.658.1010
www.avenue-electrolysis.com
Blossom
Laser hair removal on dark skin?
Oct 2004
I am a light-skinned African-American person who is considering
laser hair removal. Years ago, I read that dark-skinned people
were bad candidates for laser hair removal because of the
increased risk of scarring. Are there any darker skinned people
who've had laser hair removal that can tell me if it did or
didn't work for them? Where did you go?
Tired of the hair war
Hi,
I don't have dark skin but have had extensive laser hair
treatment on my bikini line and underarms. I had this done at
the doctor's office. Just wanted to let you know that it is
quite painful (like a rubber band snapping on your skin) and
requires 3-6 sessions to be effective. The doctor warned me
that since I tan pretty easily, it is possible to get some dark
pigmentation/scarring. I got a few marks that were darkish but
have faded away with bleaching cream and time over the past few
years. I now am not hairless in these areas but do have very
thin, sparse hair that is really easy to shave and/or wax. I
probably need a couple more sessions but it is costly and I'm
pretty satisfied with what I have for now. Also, I don't want
to deal w/ any more discoloration.
So, after babbling on, my recommendation would be to see a
really good dermatologist and discuss it with them. Maybe do a
test patch in a discrete area. I now go to
Dr. Katie Rodan in
Oakland. She is the co-creator of Proactiv Solution and is an
EXCELLENT doctor. I highly recommend that you go to a doctor w/
a good reputation. Hope this helps. Feel free to email me with
any questions.
jackiez
I am a carmel complexed african american & I have had laser
removal on my bikini area. I had a great response to the laser.
It worked well & now my bikini area is as soft as a baby's
bottom. I went to Dr June Engle. Her number is 925-284-3764. She
just moved so I don't know if that number is the same, but her
new address is 3799 Mount Diablo Blvd, in Lafayette. She uses a
new laser machine that I have yet to experience, but I know for
a fact that the old one worked, so I'm sure the newer does
too....new & improved. The process was a year, I went once a
month, it cost about $500 each time, but it was truly worth it
because I was real hairy. There is some scaring after the
procedure for a few days, but it does fade away. If you have any
more questions feel free to email me.
http://www.lasersolutionsmd.com/
Shelly
Laser hair removal can cause hyperpigmentation or darkening of
the skin in treated areas, particularly in darker skinned
people. A new laser called the Gentle YAG has been developed
just for this problem. This laser is much kinder to dark skin
than the Alexandrite laser, and pigmentation problems after
treatment are much less common. In my practice, I also pretreat
patients who are darker skinned with Hydroquinone which helps
prevent hyperpigmentation caused by the irritation of the laser.
It is important to know that different types of skin problems
are handled best by specific types of lasers. However, lasers
are expensive and many offices and spas try to purchase a laser
that is versatile and can treat many conditions. These lasers
often treat none of these conditions well. It is therefore
important to make sure that you are getting treatment where the
Gentle-YAG is available to minimize your risk of
hyperpigmentation.
We are providing hair removal services in my office, and bring
in the specific laser required to treat a specific condition.
We work with the Gentle YAG. Please feel free to call the
office for more information.
510 704-2170
Elizabeth Lee, M.D.
I also have dark skin so when I went of a few clinics in San
Francisco they told me laser hair removal would not be very
effective. Then I went to Dr. Usha Rajagopal at 490 Post St.
(suite 430) in San Francisco.
The doctor is east-indian herself, so she specializes in hair
removal for dark skin types. I found out that there is a special
type of laser called a Lyra laser that works on dark skin types -
and that only a few doctors in the area have that type of laser.
My experience was great - her staff were all very caring and
knowledgable, and they were open evenings and weekends. I ended
up having laser hair removal on my chin, lip and underarms and it
only took me 8 treatments. I've had a little bit of growth on my
upper lip - but I just go back once every 3 or 4 months and get
it zapped again. It's been 3 years and I am so satisfied.
Anyways, you should check out Dr. Rajagopal's website - it
explains the laser proccess better than I can. Its
http://www.sfcosmeticsurgery.com/procedures/laserprocedures/laserhairremoval.htm
Also, they're phone number is (415) 392-3333. They are right by
union square so it's very easy to get to - you can take the Muni
to Powell St. Station and just walk up Powell to post.
Good luck!
Kristiane
Sept 2004
Does anybody have a recommendation for laser hair removal in Berkely/ North
Berkeley area. I used to go over to the city, but don't have the time anymore.
Thanks
We will be providing laser hair removal services in my office in
Berkeley starting next month. Please feel free to call for more
information. 510 704-2170.
Thank you for your interest
Elizabeth Lee, M.D.
April 2004
I'm in my second year of electrolysis for hair removal on my
chin. I have some hairs on my upper lip area but understand that
electrolysis in that area is extremely painful. I wondered if
anyone has had a good experience with laser hair removal on the
face. Is it painful? I'm concerned about scarring as well.
Please let me know if you have someone to refer me to.
thanks
Lauren
I've had electrolysis on my upper lip and laser hair removal on
my legs. I think they are about equally painful. Both are
bearable if you use anesthetic cream (e.g. Emla) first. Apply to
upper lip about 20 min before treatment; to legs about an hour
before.
Electrolysis is a better choice if you have scattered dark hairs.
Laser hair removal is appropriate if you want an area completely
bald. You have to shave the area before laser treatment--I
wouldn't want to shave my upper lip; I just want to get rid of
the scattered dark hairs. Also, laser hair removal is more
expensive--about $200-$250/hr vs. ~$60/hr for electrolysis.
If you are interested in laser hair removal, I've used the place
in SF at 450 Sutter (Suite 2433) @ Powell, 888 846-5273.
Getting less hairy
February 2003
I am chagrined to say, that I am growing dark hair on the fair
skin of my chin and neck (ICK!)
I understand that I am a good candidate for laser hair
removal. I would love recommendations for good, reputable
practitioners (doctors okay, too). I figure that the high up-
front cost of this will more than make up for the mental
anguish and expense of the other chronic, long-term solutions.
(I am an experienced patron of waxing and other services, so no
need to provide insight there).
Thanks.
hairy and hating it
I went to the office of Dr. Rajagopal in San Francisco (415
392-3333), with reasonably good results. I now have just
peach fuzz on my upper lip, though I also developed some
slightly increased pigmentation with resulting darkened
patches in the treatment area. I am olive-skinned to begin
with, which I think may have made me more susceptible to
that: if you are fair-skinned, it may not be such a risk for you,
but it's a good idea to ask about it.
Dr. R is a plastic surgeon and she met me for the initial
consult, but the treatments were performed by staff
technicians, who are aestheticians of varying skill and
experience. I was happiest with Eunice, who was very
gentle and knowledgeable. One of the techs was rather
trigger-happy - apparently she ''zapped'' herself with the
thing whenever she saw the slightest shadow of unwanted
hair - and urged me to use higher potency levels to get the
quickest results. I was eager to rid myself of the upper lip
hair, but reluctant to go too fast, so I did not take her advice.
That may be why I ended up taking twice as many sessions
as I was initially told I'd need, but then the doctor did not tell
me there was flexibility around how strong the treatments
would be. I'd ask about that as well: who decides on the
potency-setting of the laser? I think the MD shoul be
involved.
I know of another SF MD named Kulyk, who performs the
laser removal himself. A friend of mine with an especially
stubborn problem went to him, and was impressed at first
with the methodical approach, before and after pictures, and
the fact that he does not delegate to techs, but when he
insensitively joked to her that she was a ''hairy beast,'' she'd
had enough!
I wish I could rave about someone but all I have to offer is
my experience with these two. Since I never had the
patience or pain-threshhold for electrolysis, I was really glad
when this technology came along. It's not perfect, but for me
it was really worth it and I'm happy I did it. If I need more I'll
go back to Eunice at Dr. R's office. I hope this is helpful.
Good luck.
anon
I tried laser hair removal to remove the hair on the nape of my
neck. Two very expensive treatments (one followed up by the
recommended waxing which was said to guarantee success)resulted
in no long term improvement. This may just be a tough area to
treat. However, when I'm ready to address this again, I'll be
using the much more time consuming but predictable method of
electrolysis. (At the prices I paid, I'm betting the two
treatments will be of an equivalent cost in the end.)
Good luck.
Anon
Jan. 2002
Can anyone give me feedback on laser hair removal? I'm considering this
procedure, but don't know where to start. How effective is it? How long does
it typically last, and are there any specific doctors you would or would not
recommend? Thanks
I recently had my bikini line and underarms done. It does hurt a bit but it
is tolerable. It feels like a rubber band snapping on your skin but you can
ease the pain by icing the area before its done(cold coke cans applied to
the area!!).
From what I understand you need to have it done 2-3 times before never
shaving again. I was told that hair grows in stages so one time won't work.
I have some hair growing back (since I have only had one appt) but it is
definitely less. I think it's not cheap ( a few hundred dollars each time)
but probably not horrible if you add up the waxing prices over the rest of
your life!!! My father-in -law is a Dr. out of state and did it for me -so
sorry I can't recommend anyone.
anon.
I had my bikini line done at UCSF Laser Center, (415)353-7878, and
highly recommend them. To ease the pain they recommend to apply topical
cream ELA-MAX with lidocaine 1 to 2 hours before the procedure and it
does not hurt. One time I was not careful in applying the cream and the
difference was enormous. I got this recommendation from my
dermatologist, who told me that they have top quality equipment. Personaly,
I cannot compare them with other centers since they are the first and
last for me so far, but the nurses and doctors I met were all very nice
and professional.
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