Laser Hair Removal FAQ

A specific wavelength of light is absorbed by melanin in the hair follicle and converted to heat, damaging the follicle's ability to grow new hair. This process — selective photothermolysis — is the clinical foundation of every professional laser device.

Most patients need 6–10 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart, depending on body area, hormonal factors, and skin type. Coarse hair on the underarms or Brazilian often responds faster than finer facial hair.

The FDA classifies the result as permanent hair reduction. After a full cycle, treated follicles produce dramatically less hair — permanently — with occasional touch-ups for hormone-driven regrowth.

Most patients describe modern laser as a warm rubber-band snap with contact cooling between pulses. Sensation varies by area — the underarms and bikini are more sensitive than the legs or back.

Visible shedding begins 1–3 weeks after the first session, and most patients notice meaningful density reduction by session 3–4. Full results build cumulatively across the treatment cycle.

Yes — it is one of the most studied and widely performed medical aesthetic procedures. Safety depends on device selection, clinician training, and appropriate calibration for your Fitzpatrick skin type.

Yes, when the right device is used. Stubble treats all Fitzpatrick types (I–VI) safely using wavelengths — particularly Nd:YAG at 1064nm — calibrated to darker skin.

Mild redness and slight follicular swelling for a few hours after treatment are normal. Blistering, burns, or persistent pigment changes are rare with correctly calibrated devices.

Active pregnancy, certain photosensitizing medications, recent isotretinoin use, active infections in the treatment area, and specific medical conditions warrant deferral or modification.

Yes, with careful sun protection. Treated skin must not be tanned at the time of treatment, and SPF 30+ is required daily throughout the cycle.

Shave the treatment area within 24 hours, avoid sun exposure and self-tanner for two weeks prior, skip retinoids and exfoliating acids for 3–5 days, and arrive with clean, product-free skin.

Laser targets the follicle beneath the skin. Surface hair burns and creates unnecessary discomfort, so shaving within 24 hours is required to keep the treatment safe and comfortable.

Waxing, plucking, threading, sun exposure, self-tanner, retinoids, and exfoliating acids in the days before treatment. All can affect safety or results.

Yes. Photosensitizing medications (some antibiotics, isotretinoin, certain diuretics) require deferral. Always disclose current medications during your consultation.

For 72 hours: no heat (sauna, hot tub, intense workouts), no direct sun, no harsh actives. Cool compresses, gentle moisturizer, and SPF 30+ daily.

Wait at least 24–48 hours before intense workouts. Elevated body temperature and sweat on freshly treated skin can cause irritation.

Wait 48–72 hours for pools and 24 hours for the ocean. Chlorine and salt can irritate healing follicles.

Skip physical and chemical exfoliation for at least 5–7 days after treatment. Reintroduce gradually once redness has fully resolved.

Mild redness, follicular swelling, or small bumps for 24–48 hours are normal. Persistent pain, blistering, or crusting warrants a call to your provider.

Waxing is temporary and requires monthly appointments forever. Laser is a defined 9–12 month cycle that ends. Most patients spend less on a full laser cycle than they would on two years of waxing.

Shaving is daily maintenance with recurring irritation and ingrowns. Laser is a one-time clinical cycle that ends the routine. Most patients recover the cost within 5–7 years.

No. IPL emits scattered broad-spectrum light at lower energy and produces temporary thinning. Medical-grade laser uses a single precise wavelength at clinical energy and produces permanent reduction.

Both are permanent. Laser is dramatically faster for larger areas of pigmented hair; electrolysis is the only option for white, grey, and blonde hair or very small patches.

Stubble treats with the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus — a dual-wavelength platform pairing 755nm Alexandrite for lighter skin and 1064nm Nd:YAG for darker skin, with integrated cryogen cooling for comfort.

Stubble is a clinical laser program built around one job done at the highest standard — with medical oversight, standardized settings, and a defined treatment cycle. It is not an à la carte menu.

As a single defined cycle, not a subscription. You pay for the full clinical outcome rather than session-by-session up-charges.

Sessions carry across the cycle. Reach out to your provider and we will accommodate reasonable schedule adjustments.