I had a free consult with Ideal Image this morning about laser hair removal. While I feel like a complete hypocrite for going (having been a huge supporter of electrolysis only for a long time) even I realized that it would take many, many hours via electrolysis to remove all the hair I want gone. After having about 200 hours on my face (an area I would NEVER use laser) I am not sure I want to spend that amount or more on body hair.
I have to say, I was very impressed. The clinic looked professional, nice but not gaudy, and I was given a complete tour. They offer both the Alexandrite and YAG lasers (both made by Candela) and, best of all from my standpoint, ALL treatments are performed by certified nurse practioners. No dubious “laser techs” here; these are medical professionals. This was very important to me, since I want someone who knows how to handle complications or medical emergencies.
Being a transsexual, I was also pleased with how they handled that. Having had unfortunate experiences before, I wasn’t sure how it would go but they were very professional. Though I look rather androgynous at this stage, I was given the women’s prices which I greatly appreciated.
Speaking of prices, I found them very reasonable. You can either pay session to session, or pay all at once for an area. This last seems best, since it includes 5 sessions, a YEAR of free touch-ups, and a lifetime membership which offers vastly discounted re-treatment if hair returns years later.
I went in about some breast/stomach hair removal and bikini line work. However, they also offer a “full body” package which isn’t much more the the combined total of the other areas I had selected. While it would still be a stretch to pay for it, I could if I saved for several months.
HOWEVER, I am not stupid enough to blow huge sums of money on something that might not work. I think I am going to buy a small area (like hands or feet) and see how I do. If it works and I don’t have any skin problems, I’ll then try and get the full body work done. I am still nervous, however. I don’t make much money, my transition is already very expensive, and I am afraid of wasting limited resources. A best case scenario, it works great and all of my unwanted hair problems are a thing of the past. Worst case, it all grows back, my skin is damaged or burned, and I will have wasted thousands that could have helped pay for my sex reassignment or facial feminization surgery. Remember, my face is hair-free via electrolysis and I don’t need any treatment in this area.
What does everyone think I should do? Buy a cheap area and gauge my results, pay for an area I really want and hope for the best, or try and save up for the full body and pray I get the results I want?