Berkeley Parents Network: Laser Hair Removal

Berkeley Parents Network

Laser Hair Removal

Berkeley Parents Network > Advice > Beauty & Fitness > Hair Removal > Laser Hair Removal

2008 recommendations

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've seen Dr Christine Browzowski (spelling?) in Berkeley, and as far as I know she's one of the few drs that actually does the treatment herself. I've had extremely good results w/ laser removal on two treatments so far. She had some good previous reviews on BPN, and for some reason I remember reading on yelp.com some incredibly lousy reviews for her, so I checked those out. I will say that the lousy reviews seem to be almost orchestrated, although I can unfortunately agree that she has a lousy bedside manner and is a bit arrogant and dismissive of questions. And I think she may be pricier than most. I have only had hair removal from her, and my results have been great. For the first time in my entire life I spent an entire week in a bathing suit without rushing to shave my legs every single day. You do get a little bit of regrowth, but it's been so minimal that I don't worry about it--I'm pretty hairy, and maybe it helps that I've got the perfect combo of dark hair and olive skin, so the laser ''sees'' it. For the other complaints about her, she's always run basically on time with me, and she only pushed the extra products the first day. (Like the ''prescription strength sunscreen'' which I figure if it was really necessary, and I'm spending $1000 at her office, she should just throw in for free, so I declined.) She didn't even bring it up the second time around. My other complaints about her are a notion that laser treatment doesn't hurt (it is NOT like a little ''popping''-it's like every hair under your skin burning up). She told me ''hmmm-no one has ever complained about that before.'' She could have told me ahead of time to take some ibuprofen (which I did on the second treatment). And the pain, while intense, goes away pretty quickly. (you can also get some topical anesthetic for an extra fee.) And her website talks ALL about ''permanent'' hair removal, but the things you sign before you go in for treatment are ALL about no guarantees. This I think is false advertising, and I feel strongly that she should be more straightforward in her advertising and disclose what you'd have to sign instead of waiting until you've already shown up for your appt. But I also think the places that ''guarantee'' no hair regrowth are full of baloney. (I did electrolysis on my chin years ago, and it was ''permanent'' until my hormones did a number and found some new ways to grow hair. That's just life). I did NOT do any cosmetic treatments, although it looks like there is a menu of cosmetic treatments to choose from, and as I recall, this included vein treatment. I know of a dermatologist who also does these things, but the nurse does the treatments. Don't know how prices and treatments compare among various offices. I just bit the bullet and went for it. So, I can say you'd get consistency w/ Browzowski (and I assume, from my results, that you'd have good results too). And if you don't expect bargain rates or good social skills, you'll do ok. Oh, and her staff is very nice. Good luck.

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.

I went to Dr. Christine Brozowski and I encourage you to read the comments on YELP. I really could not disagree at all with what is posted there. I, of course, read this after I was treated.

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

check out Dr. Brozowski (http://www.doctorofbeauty.com/). Her office is in Berkeley. I also am olive complected with dark skin & her laser treatments did the trick. I used her services for bikini area 2+ years ago & the results are still good. I did not need to let the hair grow out before the first treatment. In fact, she shaves it away before she gets out the laser. Dr. Brozowski is very pleasant & her treatments work. I definitely recommend her. happily less hairy!

I used Dr. Christine Browzowski in Berkeley (# 510-549-3333 www.doctoragogo.com) , and although i'm sure i could have found a less expensive place to go i felt very comfortable with the fact that she was a doctor and not a technician. I think she is really good and i have been very happy with the results on my upper lip. I know that to get at the hair you can't pluck but you can shave and they will want you to grow out the hair and then shave, i'm sure they can explain why better. I hope that helps. Lily Lily

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 had laser hair removal by dr. brozowski. it does hurt - but not as much as waxing- & it isn't cheap. however, it has been permanent. i definitely recommend laser hair removal. even though the cost was initially hard to accept (i'm very cheap when it comes to anything cosmetic), i am so glad i spent the money. during my pregnancy, some of the hair grew back. after i had my baby, though, it never grew back again. this is her website: http://www.doctorofbeauty.com/ & her phone number: 510 549 3333 kris

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

I think you would be a good candidate for laser hair removal. I had a great experience at Dr. Christine Brozowski's office, where I had hair removed several years ago, and, as of yet, have not needed any additional touch-ups sessions. The key is to go with a laser expert, so that you will not need re-treatment later. For this reason, I caution you against going to Kaiser, where they have much less experience, as you get a different result and different practitioner each session. -- I had a friend who tried this with poor results, at a non-refundable cost.

Dr. Brozowski is the most well-known laser expert in the Bay Area, and you will need the least number of treatment sessions with her. Also, her staff is lovely, and the experience feels almost spa-like. The website is doctorofbeauty.com.

Laser is not cheap (price depends on area treated), but is MUCH less expensive than electrolysis, and less than a lifetime of waxing. It is uncomfortable, but not as painful as electrolysis. Never having to shave again is fabulous. :) care and hair-free

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

2007 recommendations

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

You cannot go wrong with Dr. Christine Brozowski in Berkeley. She is an expert in laser hair removal, and her staff is very knowledgable. I was treated by dr. b after an unsuccessful (and frustrating) experience at Kaiser; dr. b will get your hair to go away with the least number of sessions possible. good luck to you

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

2006 recommendations

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

I am a big fan of Dr. Christine Brozowski's office in Berkeley, where she performs laser hair removal/photofacials and microdermabrasion herself. I feel safer seeing a physician for this, than going to a spa or laser center. I found out about her because she was featured on the Channel 7 news sometime ago. I've also found her staff to be really excellent and knowledgeable.

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 is discontinuing its laser hair removal program. So I've started seeing Dr. Christine Brozowski in Berkeley, which is going very well. Her office is lovely, and staff are very nice and helpful. Best, ofcourse, it's working!

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

2005 recommendations

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

I would only trust a doctor to remove facial hair, so you should find out who does the hair removal there first. It is your face, and lasers are serious equipment. I have been seeing Dr. Brozowski in Berkeley, and am VERY pleased. I haven't had any problems/side effects, although I know some others who have gone to a 'spa' and have had. Personally, I think you get what you pay for.

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

Earlier reviews

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.

I do recommend that you get a physician to do this for you, however, as you can get burning/scarring if done improperly. I recommend Dr. Brozowski's office in Berkeley. Her number is 549- 3333 and web www.doctoragogo.com. Good luck! happily hairless

Well this is a timely process. It takes about a year of sessions to completely remove the hairs (i.e. chin). However, the bikini line may take longer because of the coverage area. Try Laser Hair Removal instead! It's more effective, less painful and much less expensive in the long run. In the Elmwood area, you can try Dr. Brozowski's office at 510-549-3333. Her website is www.doctoragogo.com anne p.

Kathryn Carron at Avenue Electrolysis ~ is highly recommended 4331 Piedmont avenue 94611 510.658.1010 www.avenue-electrolysis.com Blossom

Re: Electrolysis in Elmwood (Jan 2004)

Try Laser Hair Removal instead! It's more effective, less painful and much less expensive in the long run. In the Elmwood area, you can try Dr. Brozowski's office at 510-549-3333. Her website is www.doctoragogo.com anne p.

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

I think in the past lasers did not work as well on darker skin, and the older lasers only treated lighter skin. There are newer lasers that treat all skin types, but you must be sure to find a physician that has this type of machine (and fyi, that's NOT what they have at UCSF). I saw Dr. Christine Brozowski, an excellent cosmetic dermatologist in Berkeley, and I've had really great results. What was immediately noticeable was the reduction in ingrown hairs. People with darker skin often have coaser hair (like moi), which result in hideous ingrowns and even caused me to have acne. If you're nervous about it, you can always do a test spot and make sure you have no discoloration. I'm a complete convert to laser and can't believe I ever did anything else. I'm planning to do my legs next! won the hair war

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

I too tried electrolosys for very unfortunate hair on chin/neck. Hated it! painful and slow. I am currently undergoing laser treatment with Dr. Christine Brozowski in Berkeley -- it is not as painful and the doc tells me I will probably be done in three sessions. Not cheap though, but worth it for a feminine neck. hopefully hairless soon

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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