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Laser options
and downtime.
Clarity II
Downtime: 24 hours (mild redness)
laser & skin rejuvenation
Laser Hair Removal
Effective hair removal depends on matching the laser to the patient's skin tone and hair characteristics — and not every platform handles the full range of skin types safely. Dr. Martin uses the Clarity II dual-wavelength laser, specifically selected for its clinical efficacy across a broad range of skin tones.
The 755nm alexandrite wavelength targets follicles efficiently in lighter skin. The 1064nm Nd:YAG is the appropriate choice for darker skin tones, where its longer wavelength reduces the risk of epidermal interaction while still reaching the follicle effectively. Multiple sessions are required because laser energy only affects follicles in the active growth phase — and at any given time, a portion of hairs are resting and unresponsive to treatment. Sessions run from a few minutes for a small area to considerably longer for larger ones. Most patients experience mild redness for 24 hours afterward. Dr. Martin individualizes each plan based on hair color, density, skin type, and treatment area, with ongoing maintenance for long-term reduction.
How does laser hair removal actually work?
Laser hair removal works by delivering concentrated light energy into the hair follicle, where it's absorbed by melanin — the pigment in the hair shaft. The energy converts to heat, which damages the follicle and inhibits its ability to produce future hair growth. The key is that the laser targets the melanin in the follicle specifically, leaving the surrounding skin intact. At our practice, we use the Clarity II dual-wavelength laser, which gives us the flexibility to select the most appropriate wavelength for each patient's skin tone and hair type — an important distinction because not all laser platforms are safe for all skin types.
Why does it take multiple sessions to achieve permanent reduction?
Because laser energy is only effective on follicles in the active growth phase — called anagen — and not all hairs are in this phase at the same time. At any given moment, a portion of your hairs are in a resting or shedding phase, which means they aren't responding to treatment during that session. Spacing sessions several weeks apart allows hairs that were previously resting to enter the active phase, where they can then be targeted. At our practice, we typically recommend a series of six to eight sessions to achieve significant, lasting reduction — though the exact number varies based on the treatment area and individual hair characteristics.
Is laser hair removal safe for darker skin tones?
Yes — when the right technology is used. This is one area where platform selection makes an enormous difference. Shorter wavelength lasers that work well on lighter skin tones carry a higher risk of epidermal damage in darker skin because the melanin in the skin absorbs the energy alongside the follicle. At our practice, we use the Clarity II's 1064nm Nd:YAG wavelength for darker skin types specifically because its longer wavelength bypasses the epidermal melanin more safely while still effectively targeting the follicle. Every patient's skin type is assessed at consultation before any treatment parameters are set.
How should I prepare for laser hair removal, and what should I avoid afterward?
Before treatment, you should avoid sun exposure, tanning, and any hair removal methods that disturb the follicle — like waxing or threading — for at least four weeks prior. Shaving is fine and actually recommended shortly before your appointment. Afterward, sun protection is essential during the healing period, and you should avoid heat exposure — hot tubs, saunas, intense exercise — for 24 to 48 hours. At our practice, we provide detailed pre- and post-treatment instructions tailored to your skin type and the area being treated, so you know exactly what to do and what to avoid at every stage of your series.
Begin with a
comprehensive evaluation.
Every patient relationship begins with a thorough assessment and an open conversation. We take the time to understand your history, concerns, and long-term goals before recommending treatment. Complete the form below and one of our team members will reach out to you soon.
Before
and after.
Explore real patient transformations made possible through Dr. Gregory Martin’s comprehensive, all-in-one approach to care. Results vary by individual. These images are provided for educational purposes and do not guarantee specific outcomes.