Shaving, waxing and threading all work, but only for a while. Laser hair removal aims to reduce hair growth over the long term, so you spend less time on hair removal and may get fewer ingrown hairs. For laser hair removal in Ipswich, our clinic uses the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus, which suits men and women and every skin type.
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal uses pulses of light to target the pigment in the hair follicle. The hair absorbs the light, which turns to heat and damages the follicle. As a result, the follicle is less able to grow new hair. Meanwhile, cooling protects the surrounding skin.
The accepted way to describe the outcome is long-term or permanent hair reduction, rather than permanent removal. Most people need occasional top-ups, and results vary.
What can laser hair removal help with?
Laser hair removal can help with:
- Unwanted hair on the upper lip, chin or full face
- Underarms, bikini line and Brazilian areas
- Legs, arms, hands and feet
- Back, shoulders, chest and abdomen
- Coarse, dense or stubborn hair
- Hormonal hair growth, including hair linked to PCOS
- Ingrown hairs and irritation from frequent shaving
We also treat bespoke areas. Not sure where to start? Book a free consultation to talk it through.
How the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus works
The GentleMax Pro Plus has two lasers in one device: a 755nm Alexandrite laser and a 1064nm Nd:YAG laser. We choose the wavelength to suit your skin and hair. The Alexandrite wavelength works very well on lighter skin. In contrast, the Nd:YAG wavelength passes more safely through darker skin, so it suits Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI.
Before each pulse, a burst of cryogen spray (the Dynamic Cooling Device, or DCD) cools and protects the skin surface. You can read more about the technology on the Candela website.
Laser works best on pigmented hair, so very fair, grey, white or red hair usually responds poorly.
Your laser hair removal appointment in Ipswich
Free consultation. First, we ask about your medical history, medicines, skin and hair type and goals. After that, we put together a personalised plan.
Patch test. We carry out a small patch test at least 48 hours before your first session.
Treatment. You wear protective eyewear while the practitioner moves the handpiece across the area. Most people describe a quick snap or flick against the skin, eased by the cooling spray. Sessions usually take 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the area.
We offer evening and weekend appointments for laser hair removal in Ipswich, to fit around work and family.
How to prepare
Good preparation makes treatment safer and more effective. Before laser hair removal in Ipswich:
- Shave the area 24 hours before each session.
- Stop waxing, threading and epilating 4 weeks before you start, because these remove the hair root the laser needs to target.
- Avoid sun, sunbeds and fake tan for 2 weeks before each session, as tanned skin is more likely to react.
- Tell us about any new medicines, since some make skin more sensitive to light.
Downtime and aftercare
Downtime is usually minimal. The skin may look a little red or feel warm for a few hours.
For the first 24 hours, avoid direct sun, hot showers, saunas and intense exercise. Between sessions, protect treated skin with a broad-spectrum SPF50. Treated hairs may shed over the next one to three weeks. This is normal.
Less commonly, laser can cause blistering, a burn or temporary lightening or darkening of the skin. Rarely, hair growth increases in or near a treated area. Following the preparation and aftercare advice lowers these risks, and you should contact us if anything concerns you.
How many sessions, and when will I see results?
Hair grows in cycles, and the laser works best on hair in its active growth phase. Because not every hair is in that phase at once, you need a course. Most people need 6 to 8 sessions, 4 to 8 weeks apart, plus occasional maintenance.
Many people notice finer, sparser regrowth after a few sessions and a significant long-term reduction by the end of the course. Even so, hair colour, skin type and hormones all affect results.
Laser hair removal for PCOS and hormonal hair
Laser can still help if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or another hormonal cause of hair growth. However, you may need more sessions and regular maintenance, because hormones can keep triggering new hair growth. Laser treats the hair, not the cause, so keep up any GP care.
Laser hair removal for men
Men often choose the back, shoulders, chest, neck and beard line. In addition, laser can help men who get razor bumps and ingrown hairs on the neck. We also offer a men’s full body package.
Is laser hair removal right for me?
We would usually advise waiting if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have an infection, cold sore or broken skin in the area
- Have a recent tan or fake tan
- Take medicines that increase sensitivity to light, or have taken prescription acne tablets in the last six months
- Have a tendency to keloid scarring, or epilepsy triggered by light
We also work around tattoos in the treatment area. If you want ink removed instead, see our guide to laser tattoo removal in Ipswich. Alternatively, if dark marks bother you more than hair, our pico laser pigmentation treatment may suit you better. For tired-looking skin, read our guide to Dermalux LED light therapy.
Laser hair removal prices in Ipswich
Prices start from £30 for a small area such as the upper lip (see our pricing page for the latest). Examples include:
- Upper lip £30, chin £35, full face £60
- Underarms £40, Brazilian £50
- Half leg £80, full arms and underarms £100
- Full body £250, men’s full body package £350
You can see every area on our Candela GentleMax Pro Plus page.
Frequently asked questions
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Most people find it very manageable, and the built-in cooling helps.
Can you treat dark skin?
Yes. The 1064nm Nd:YAG wavelength is designed to treat skin types IV to VI more safely.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
It offers long-term hair reduction rather than permanent removal. Most people need occasional maintenance sessions.
Book your consultation
Tired of constant shaving or waxing? We would love to help. Book your consultation online for our clinic at 5 The Walk, Ipswich. Alternatively, call 01473 948 271 or WhatsApp us on 07938 168 157.
Recommended aftercare from our shop
- Obagi Sun Shield SPF50 Tint Warm: daily SPF50 for treated facial areas, which helps protect skin between sessions.
- Sensilis Body Spray SPF 50+: easy high-factor protection for legs, arms and back during your course.
- Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich Cream: a comforting moisturiser if your skin feels warm or dry after treatment.
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