Clarity II is an advanced dual-wavelength laser designed to safely and effectively reduce unwanted hair.
The laser works by targeting pigment within the hair follicle. The absorbed light energy heats and damages the follicle while minimizing injury to the surrounding skin. Over a series of treatments, this reduces the follicle’s ability to produce new hair.
Clarity II can be used on many areas of the face and body and is appropriate for a wide range of skin tones. Its dual-wavelength technology allows your provider to customize treatment based on your skin type, hair color, hair thickness, and treatment area.
Benefits may include:
Laser hair reduction is most effective on hair containing visible pigment. Blonde, gray, white, and some red hair may not respond well because they contain little or no pigment for the laser to target.
A series of treatments is necessary because hair grows in cycles.
The laser is most effective when the hair is in its active growth, or anagen, phase. Only a portion of the follicles in a treatment area are in this phase during any single appointment.
A typical treatment plan includes:
Your provider will recommend the timing based on the area being treated, your skin and hair characteristics, and your response to previous sessions.
Many patients begin to notice thinner, slower, and more scattered hair growth after the first several treatments.
Laser hair reduction provides significant and long-lasting reduction, but it does not guarantee the permanent removal of every hair.
Some mild regrowth may occur over time due to:
Some patients choose occasional maintenance treatments. Maintenance needs vary and may range from one or more sessions per year to a single session several years later.
Medications and supplements that may influence hair growth include, but are not limited to:
Tell your provider about any changes in your health, hormones, medications, or supplements during your treatment series.
Proper preparation is important for both safety and effectiveness.
If you are physically unable to shave the area, contact the office before your appointment so we can discuss available options.
Recently tanned skin may absorb more laser energy, increasing the risk of burns, blistering, or unwanted pigment changes. Your appointment may need to be rescheduled if your skin is tanned, sunburned, or has visible self-tanner.
If the treatment area is exposed to skincare products:
Ask your provider before discontinuing any prescription topical medication.
If you have a history of cold sores or herpes simplex outbreaks within the treatment area, notify your provider.
Preventative antiviral medication may be recommended beginning several days before treatment.
Treatment may need to be delayed, modified, or avoided if you:
Some medications commonly associated with photosensitivity may require additional precautions. Ensure your provider has a current list of all medications, supplements, and medical conditions before each treatment.
Please arrive:
Your provider will cleanse the skin and confirm the appropriate treatment settings.
Protective eyewear must be worn by everyone in the treatment room while the laser is in use.
During treatment, you may experience:
Most patients tolerate treatment well without numbing medication. If you experience significant discomfort, tell your provider immediately so the settings or comfort measures can be adjusted.
Immediately following treatment, it is normal to experience:
These reactions usually improve within several hours, although they may occasionally last longer.
Cool compresses may be used for comfort. Contact the office before applying unapproved products if your reaction is more significant than expected.
For the first 24 hours:
For the following several days:
Treated hairs may appear to continue growing for approximately one to three weeks before shedding. This is expected and does not mean the treatment was unsuccessful.
Do not wax, pluck, thread, or remove shedding hairs from the root. You may shave as needed.
Most side effects are mild and temporary.
Common effects may include:
Less common risks may include:
Permanent discoloration or scarring is rare but possible.
A paradoxical increase in hair growth is also a rare, documented risk. This is more likely to occur in certain facial or hormonal treatment areas and should be discussed with your provider when relevant.
Please contact the office if you experience:
Hair reduction develops gradually throughout the treatment series.
You may notice:
Results vary based on:
Completing the recommended treatment series and attending appointments at the proper intervals provides the best opportunity for meaningful, long-lasting reduction.