Medical Hair Removal - Ikebukuro Clinic

What is Medical Hair Removal?

Medical hair removal is a treatment that aims for long-term hair reduction and permanent hair removal effects by irradiating high-output laser onto hair roots and hair matrix cells, which can only be used at medical institutions, damaging the tissue itself where hair regenerates. Unlike light hair removal (flash hair removal) performed at aesthetic salons, the procedure is performed by medical professionals such as doctors and nurses. Our clinic uses the "GentleLase Pro," an alexandrite laser hair removal device approved by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Because it reacts pinpoint to the melanin pigment of hair, it minimizes damage to surrounding skin while demonstrating high hair removal effectiveness.

Difference Between Medical Hair Removal and Aesthetic Hair Removal

Aesthetic hair removal (light hair removal) irradiates light with reduced output, so while skin burden per treatment is minimal, it may require many sessions to complete hair removal. Medical hair removal, on the other hand, uses powerful lasers, so results can be expected with fewer treatments. Additionally, should any abnormality occur during the procedure, there is peace of mind knowing a doctor is present to respond immediately.

Equipment Used: GentleLase Pro

GentleLase Pro is a hair removal device that irradiates alexandrite laser at a wavelength of 755nm. It has a high selective absorption rate to melanin pigment and boasts high reach to hair roots. It is equipped with a "DCD (Dynamic Cooling Device)" function that sprays cool gel simultaneously with irradiation, significantly reducing pain during the procedure and skin damage. It is an established device adopted by many medical clinics.

Procedure Flow and Method

First, during counseling, we confirm the treatment area, number of sessions, and pricing plan. We ask for self-shaving of the treatment area by the day before the procedure (if there are missed spots, we will handle them in-clinic, but an additional ¥550 (tax included) will be charged). On the day of the procedure, after cleaning the treatment area, laser irradiation with GentleLase Pro is performed. Use of the cooling device minimizes pain during irradiation. After irradiation, soothing care is provided and the procedure is complete. If you wish to have irradiation on the day of your counseling consultation, please let us know in advance and we can accommodate this.

Downtime Guide

Redness or mild flushing may occur immediately after treatment, but typically subsides over several hours to the next day. On the day of treatment, use only lukewarm showers and avoid bathing, alcohol consumption, and strenuous exercise. Sun exposure can cause inflammation and pigmentation, so please be thorough with UV protection before and after treatment. Rarely, side effects such as folliculitis, paradoxical hypertrichosis, or ingrown hairs may occur, but our clinic is rigorous in technical management to minimize skin troubles.

Results and Treatment Frequency Guide

Please visit once every 1-2 months in accordance with the hair growth cycle. While there is individual variation, many people notice that hair becomes difficult to grow with 3-4 irradiations, and long-term hair reduction effects can be expected with 5-7 sessions (approximately 1-2 years). For those with tanned skin or naturally dark skin, there is a risk of over-reaction of the laser, so UV protection before and after treatment is especially important.