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Aesthetic Laser Concepts
Category: Beauty and Spas Hair Removal Laser Hair Removal Laser Hair Removal [Edit]
490 Post StSte 1701
(between Powell St & Mason St)
San Francisco, CA 94102
Neighbourhoods: Union Square, Civic Center/Tenderloin
(415) 956-0111
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
$89 for $180 Deal
Christina H. said: "I have found my hair heroine. I have horrible hair. I mean bad. Think, dark red bleached to neon orange dyed to brown highlighted back to honey blonde…" read more »
34 reviews for Aesthetic Laser Concepts
34 reviews in English
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Review from Leandra K.
San Francisco, CA
3/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
"Laser hair removal doesn't hurt." Liars.
Actually it depends where on your body you are getting the treatment done. The underarms for me was pretty painless but when you get to the lady parts...yikes. It feels like you are being plucked one hair at a time. Before that scares you away, I have had 4 sessions with in the last 6 months and the results are amazing. I wish I had done this years ago instead of subjecting myself to the sadistic ritual that is the Brazilian.
Good to know:
1. The laser targets melanin (pigment) in the hair, so the darker and coarser the hair the more effective the treatments will be. I was told by the nurse Asians usually see the best results. Sweet!
2.Do not tan the area you are treating, before or after. Make sure to apply an SPF before any sun exposure.
3. No waxing at least 4 weeks before treatment. No waxing after that. Shave the area the night before or the day of treatment otherwise the laser will burn the hair instead of zapping the root.
4. The hair will look like it is growing but within a few days to a couple of weeks the hair will fall out.
5. May need anywhere from 6-8 sessions but will depend on the person. After 4 sessions I am 95% hair free but will need touch up sessions once or twice a year.
6. There are many different kinds of lasers. I also go to Aura Skin Spa in North Beach and they do a great job but their laser hurts more. The one they use here is not as harsh on the skin and experience minimal discomfort after the treatment.
7. DO NOT GO A WEEK BEFORE YOUR PERIOD. Your body is more sensitive to pain. Drinking caffeine right before can also increase your sensitivity to pain. If you allergic to the numbing cream like I am you can come in earlier to ice down the area.
8. It's pricy. I recommend waiting for an online deal but do your research! You want to go somewhere reputable otherwise you can get ineffective treatments or worse, get burned by the laser.
My Bloomspot deal is over but I'll continue treatment here since the staff is great, space is beautiful and clean. I only see Jamara, she has a way of making you feel comfortable and coaches you through the session. -
Review from Monika S.
4/12/2012
I have been going to Aesthetic Laser Concepts since they were at their old location many years ago. To make a long story short: they kind of saved my life.
A decade back, I had a horrible imbalance in my hormone levels, causing me to grow facial hair that had to be shaved, waxed or plucked everyday. Needless to say, as a pretty femmy woman it was traumatic. A friend who actually did laser treatments, suggested I try it. OMG- my life changed.
OK, the first treatment was living hell. The lasers react to the pigment of your hair; I was the perfect target: pale skin-dark hair. Mind you I had more hair on my face then a lot of guys, so the pain matched the hair level of lets say your legs-but on a way more sensitive area. Some hair pop out, others sort of melt. It sometimes seems like the hair is growing but actually it just falls out after a couple of days. About two weeks after the first treatment, my skin was baby butt smooth. I cried. I did not have to shave or pluck for almost 3 months. For the first year, I went back every 12 weeks or so. Every time, the pain was more tolerable. Ironically I discovered the numbing cream once I moved into maintenance mode.
Now 10 years later, I go maybe once a year to get the last of the hairs that pop up. Next will be the armpits.
The space is amazing, Keith is lovely and always a joy to chat with, and the crew who do the work all know what they are doing.
Things to know:
# There is no such thing, as all your hair being removed permanently in one session. You hair cycles. Not all your hair is on your body at the same time. Usually you will need multiple sessions for permanent results. Since everyone is different, ask the RN how many they think you will need.
# Use the numbing cream. Even with it, it still is not the most pleasant experience, but compared to ingrown hairs, plucking or waxing, I will do this any day.
# Best combo for hair removal: light skin/dark hair. My husband who is blonde , did successfully have his slightly darker neck hair removed. He had about 4 sessions and it rarely grows back.
# Make sure to follow their after care suggestions. You want to pamper your skin after treatments, not irritate it!
If laser hair removal is something you have been considering, these guys are pros. -
Review from Gloria Y.
2/21/2012
Waxing for me is a thing of the past. I've been coming here since March of last year for laser hair removal. Sure, it's expensive. Sure, it's painful. BUT, the results are incredible.
I used to go to Striptwax every 3 -4 weeks religiously and spend $60 on waxing each time. Each time it hurt. Each time I knew it wasn't going to be permanent. But after six treatments at Aesthetic Laser Concepts, I barely need maintenance. I"ll continue to go there to work on other parts of my body. This investment is worth every penny because the results are permanent after several sessions. Of course, this may vary from person to person.
Both Nalia and Lisa are wonderful aestheticians. Book with either and you will not be disappointed. They are knowledgeable and efficient. You will be in and out of each appointment faster than you can find parking:)Listed in: Beauty Fix
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Review from Jake B.
San Francisco, CA
5/2/2012
I went in for my first hair laser treatment last night. First, this place is amazing just in that they are open late! So convenient. The front desk staff was super helpful. Everything went great. They were very generous with the numbing cream, which worked amazingly well. I was pretty nervous, and didn't feel a thing! Sylvia, my nurse, was fantastic, so personable, friendly. LOVE THIS PLACE!
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Review from Desiree L.
Honolulu, HI
1/20/2012
Great service! Professional consultations and nurses would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for affordable laser hair removal.
I love the staff here and the penthouse spa setting is so relaxing you can get a multitude of services here in addition to laser hair removal.
Definitely check this place out you won't regret it -
Review from S C.
San Francisco, CA
11/11/2011
Seriously, what is in the numbing cream??? From past laser experiences, I was expecting horrible pain. That said, I hate waxing and was willing to try again after an 8 yr hiatus. After 45 mins of marinating my to-be-lasered parts in their numbing agent, I was laughing because the laser was tickling me. No joke. Truly minimal discomfort. I am still waiting on the results, but feel pretty confident the treatments will work.
The penthouse space is light and airy, and the front desk is super professional and helpful. When I arrived 15 mins late (too late for the numbing agent to take full effect), they were able to fit me in an hour later.
Lisa, the technician, was fast, professional and super personable. And she works Sundays!
My expectations were completely exceeded, and best yet, I am not dreading the next appt. Could not recommend more highly! -
Review from Katie M.
Oakland, CA
7/20/2011
I love love love love this place! I've wanted laser hair removal for a long time but it was always too expensive and I wasn't sure if it would be permanent. I am SO sick of shaving, hair stubble, and double checking my bikini line every time I go out swimming.
So... I did a yelp search and compared all the prices and ratings of all the laser places in the Bay Area. Aesthetic was continuously on top of the list even though I updated and found more places. I thought, what the hell. Go for it.
I tested my underarms and bikini first. The first few days I saw hair stubble and I was disappointed. Wondered if it was a waste of my money and time. Then I realized they were dead hair follicles and they fell out within a week. It was amazing how smooth the skin looked. I noticed a tremendous reduction in hair growth and thickness. I shaved a lot less and going out in a bikini wasn't an issue any more.
I already made my third appointment and I think one more and I'll be good for the yearly check ups. I also made an appointment for lower legs so I am really excited about being hair free in all the right places!
The staff are uber friendly and patient. They understand and are very gentle, especially if you're laying on your back and your hoohah is in the air waiting to get lasered. I never felt awkward or embarrassed. They were very professional and did everything right.
The prices are amazing! The other places are way more expensive and this place is just right. The office is clean and it's on the penthouse floor. Hey! Can't complain with a luxury place like this.
Oh, and I love the pictures on their walls. Beautiful work of body art.
If you're unsure about laser hair, call them. They will really help you. If you're unsure about which place to go for, go to Aesthetic Laser Concept. You won't be sorry!
Tip: take public transportation. Parking is frustrating, after all it's San Francisco!
Tip 2: Book your appointment as soon as possible. They are really popular and you might have to wait a bit. It's well worth the wait!
Tip 3: Get the numbing cream. It does make the experience a lot more relaxing, as in less painful. -
Review from Luzette P.
San Francisco, CA
7/6/2011
I LOVE THIS PLACE.
initially they cancelled my appt, which i wasn't too happy about but then they got me in on the weekend and it was awesome.They even gave me a 10% discount as well as the numbing cream for free. I have been going to another place for a year and my hair slow down in growth but after going to 1 treatment here, it seemed to just stop. Seriously!! They have a great hourly rate. I was able to get my bottom legs, bikini, upper lip, stomach, and underarms done in an hour. I can tolerate the pain pretty good. I only put numbing cream on my lip and bikini area. All areas that i got done pretty much stopped growing and i have only done my bikini area once! I have a small patch of hair growing on my lower legs so i will have that taken care of in a few weeks!
I really recommend this place! -
Review from Sona P.
San Francisco, CA
12/16/2011
Laser hair removal here rocks! Lisa is the best - she's very knowledgeable about the process and results, and has helpful hints. She's also very friendly and sweet. Compared to other medspas, Aesthetic has comparable or better laser machines. I used a Bloomspot deal initially, but plan to continue at the regular price. Worth the service.
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Review from Natasha M.
San Francisco, CA
2/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
Professional staff, lovely setting even with construction. Really appreciated the little patio on a nice day like this. Did not appreciate how cold it was. Umm HELLO, disrobing here for a spa or laser treatment, mind keeping it warm?
Lisa was great, made it very comfortable. It really is fair priced and reasonable. So don't be scared (doesn't hurt) it's worth it and yes more than one treatment is needed. -
Review from Neety P.
San Jose, CA
5/29/2008
Ladies - If you've ever dreamed of laser hair removal, but just couldn't bare to spend the big bucks......this is your place!! Prices are great. They have tons of combo deals, etc. Consultations are FREE.
I've been for one treatment so far and literally have seen a 80%improvement in hair growth already. I had done one session at Kaiser (boo! so expensive and impersonal) on my underams, with this second treatment at Aesthetic Laser Concepts, I don't need to shave for weeks.
I also got my hoo-ha done.....again...great results so far. I look forward to the second session. It hurts like a mofo though. I opted to not get the numbing cream cause I'm a tough lady.....I do recommend it for other people....especially if you're doing the brazillian, landing strip, etc.
The staff there is super nice. I mean I felt 100% comfortable while a lady (Lisa!) was pointing a laser at my coochie. That's pretty darn good service!
Another major plus is their hours....Open 7 days a week! Note that their address has changed from the one listed on this profile. I don't know the new address, but it's within 2 blocks of the old one on Post street by the Donatello hotel. When you set up your consultation, make sure to ask for it. -
Review from Erica M.
San Francisco, CA
11/7/2006
The nurses are competent and very nice. Treatments are effective -- though you need to research laser hair removal to see if it's right for you. The price cannot be beat.
However, there is one major blemish on this establishment -- the scheduling people are not always on top of the appointments. In fact they're so incompetent that I knocked off two stars for this reason alone. I've had appointments canceled twice, once without my knowledge prior to arrival. Bear this in mind when scheduling -- and if you don't receive a confirmation call, you may not be in their books when you arrive! -
Review from Chloe B.
San Francisco, CA
10/19/2011
I can't believe I haven't written a review for this place yet. I'm an aesthetician and I refer my clients to Lisa all the time. She's fast, thorough, warm, and really makes the experience much more bearable than one would expect. I've ha laser at other places and have never had such a positive experience. I've done my bikini and underarms which are almost done now. I went through 5-6 treatments and the difference is amazing! I'm going back to get started on my legs. The pricing is REALLY reasonable considering the amazing location and the quality of the work and Keith at the front desk is great! He remembers me every time and is always nice to chat with while waiting for my appointments. I highly recommend this place to anyone interested in laser hair removal. I'm also planning on getting some visible veins removed so I'm sure I'll have more positive things to say in the future.
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Review from Jessica B.
San Francisco, CA
6/19/2008
I've gone for three treatments and have seen amazing results. Unfortunately, it hurts really bad the first time and then just bad the next few times. I think this is because there is less hair to laser, which, of course, is the objective. I've been extremely pleased with the results and have seen a dramatic decrease in hair growth. I've been to to other places and have paid much more, and gotten poor results. You have to be sure you go back each time until the nurse feels you are done. If you skip appointments you may not get the great results.
Lisa (my nurse of choice) is fantastic. She is nice, friendly and very skilled. She makes you feel comfortable even when you are in a really embarrassing position. She is also understanding of the pain and tries to make it as bearable as possible. -
Review from Nilu r.
San Francisco, CA
4/8/2010
I waited until a few treatments to write this review...just to make sure I was getting results. Well I can say that so far so good.
I'm middle eastern and while that sounds really cool (sigh) its not all fun and games being a little fur ball!
I have gone to these guys 3 times so far and the hair is GREATLY reduced and nearly gone in most places. I realize that it is not permanent and just a reduction but even so, it is worth it.
The people are so friendly and wonderful and make you feel so comfortable.
Lisa is absolutely fabulous...I cant believe I enjoyed my session with her...we talked the whole time and it flew by!
Nalia is also wonderful...so sweet and personable.
The price is lower than most places and I couldn't be happier with the results thus far! -
Review from Raya K.
2/20/2009
I've been doing laser here for almost one year, and after doing some extensive research I really don't think you can beat their prices. I started off with my armpits, and now also do my bikini, upper lip, chin and will add legs sometime this year!
Minus one star because I got slightly burned once on the bikini. The staff dealt with the issue professionally and fairly. I was impressed with the treatment I received before, during and after the incident.Listed in: Beautify me
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Review from Ms K.
Los Angeles, CA
12/9/2006
Imagine life without razor stubble and never having to shave or wax.
Aesthetic Laser Concepts is the best place in the bay area to get laser hair removal. I did a lot of research before I chose this place. ALC uses the most effective laser machines, and its done by RNs. (Lisa is super nice and works really quickly.) Plus, they're open 7 days a week and have late evening hours.
What's amazing is how inexpensive it is compared to other places. They don't make you buy packages, like most places; instead, you pay as you go. It takes like 5-6 sessions, but after 3-4 sessions it seems like all the hair is gone. Each session gets cheaper because there's less hair to zap. If you add up your annual costs of waxing, laser hair removal is actually the cheaper option.
Be sure to ask for the numbing cream! -
Review from Sookhee K.
San Francisco, CA
3/23/2012
Very disorganized place. The most disorganized person is their receptionist...Kieth. Very unprofessional. He also goes by the title of a "client relations liason" or equivalent. His job is to quote you prices that are posted on their website already. Without getting a consult with him (an utter waste of time) you cannot get an appointment even if you have had the laser hair removal done before. Also, he has no experience with providing the laser hair removal treatment, is not an RN, or MD. Yet, he proceed to tell me that I would need at least 10 treatments for the bikini and legs. My doctor that I see (who happens to be an out of the way drive for me so I am looking for a trustworthy place in the City) had done a patch test on my arm in early Feb and the hair has still not grown back there. So, 10 treatments or more coming from the ALC rep is NOT trustworthy. The fact that they have an ignorant person conducting their client relations gives me the impression that they are irresponsible and do not care about their patients and are just interested in making money. I hope your experience with them is better than mine. Do get a patch test anywhere you go so that you can gauge whether or not the clinic you choose is right for you. The impression that ALC left me with is that their technicians may not know what they are doing if it takes them 10 sessions to do bikini and legs. I think that is more sessions than anywhere else in the country for a Type 4 skin. So, ignorance and irresponsible staff members will keep me away from this place.
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Review from Victoria N.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 5/1/2011
I love this place. I've been coming for years. I've referred a good 15-20 friends to this location (and they've all referred friends too).
Newy at the front desk is awesome. He's always super accommodating. Actually, EVERYONE is. I cant say a single bad thing about this place (except maybe the parking situation but thats standard in SF!)
If there is ONE place in SF you should frequent, its this one.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/7/2009
Totally the most affordable laser in the bay area... I feel safe and totally trust them- Lisa and… Read more »
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Review from Serene M.
San Francisco, CA
10/31/2007
Ok i just downgraded from 5 stars, only because they got this new laser that hurts like a mofo.
And my fave technician hasnt been around, Lisa..where are you?
I've done 5/6 treatments for my "brazilian" area and Im gonna stop here I think, its all I need...but seriously this place is great. They are moving, so I dont know how that will change things, but price cant be beat (I've shopped around), its super effective, and professional staff that is really upfront about everything, no shadyness factor here. -
Review from chris p.
Oakland, CA
11/6/2011
First of all - the location is insane - in the heart of Union Square and super easy to get to. Second, the office is located in the penthouse suite and when you walk in, the patio doors immediately to your right open out to a charming patio overlooking the city. I've been here for 4 decades and this was the first time I've been on an outdoor rooftop overlooking straight downtown SF and the bay like this and it was pretty cool. Get there 20mins early so you can hang out there, read the latest mags and drink tea. Last and most importantly, Lisa was my specialist and she's wonderful and great at what she does. I live in the East Bay and it's a schlep to SF ... but this place is worth it!!!
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Review from Dina M.
Oakland, CA
4/26/2011
I had laser hair removal done a few years ago and was looking to have more done. I decided to make an appt at the place I went to previously, even though I didn't care for them that much (they did a fine job, I just didn't appreciate their hard sell tactics every time I went in...plus they were expensive!). Lo and behold I got one of those deal e-mails (Groupon or someone) for this place and i decided to check it out. The reviews on here were almost all very good, and when I called them up to ask some questions I got a really good vibe from the person who answered the phone. So, I went for it (and cancelled my appt at the other place). I've been to just one appt so far, but I'm really, really pleased! Their office is gorgeous, and ALL the staff that I encountered were just great. I'll definitely recommend them to my friends!!!!!
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Review from Kirsten V.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2007
This place is great! They knock $50 off for referrals too. Very professional, the most flexible times imaginable and very very affordable. Do not go anywhere else for laser. I've shopped around, trust me!
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Review from N K.
San Francisco, CA
5/21/2011
This would be an okay place except they don't spend enough time on the hair removal and they overcharge you for all kinds of things. I felt 10 minutes for bikini line laser was not enough. I was trying to tell the nurse that she is missing spots but she rudely told me I don't know what I am talking about. Sure enough, in a week, the area treated is completely spotty. After my appointment, they announced that I owe them $15 for numbing cream. This was very unprofessional because I was never informed of this additional charge prior to the treatment - they would not waive it afterwards.
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Review from Jade P.
San Francisco, CA
7/31/2007
i was here to clear hair from my face & neck (i'm trans). i consider myself lucky in that i was never extremely fuzzy to begin with.
i tried this place twice. their office suite is beautiful & comfortable; it feels like a spa. the competence of their staff is more lacking, kinda clumsy. this is not a clinic; you are a customer, not a patient.
they suggested i come in every 4 weeks, whereas another laser place said that was excessive, a waste of my money, & possibly even dangerous for my skin. the other place instead recommended every 6-8 weeks, which i personally found to be more appropriate.
spa-laser might be ok for cosmetic bits here & there, but for something more serious & important, something that requires more individual care & memory, i would go to a medical clinic. -
Review from Katherine N.
Los Angeles, CA
9/25/2007
Last year I chose to either buy a piece of jewelry ( just a small bauble) or have laser hair removal.
All I can say is no matter how great a bauble it would have been it can't beat not having to shave legs, bikini, and underarms, not to mention the additional waxings of all of the above for 20,30,40 years !
It was the best money I've ever spent.
The nurses that work there are the most professional, caring and not to mention discreet people you'll ever meet because it can get a bit intimate at times depending on the area. They see everything all the time and are very comforting.
OK, now time for the important stuff, YES, it can hurt, not on every area , but if there is a bit of discomfort they simply turn it down a level to a comfortable range for you.
YES, you need to go several times, for some areas more than others, they can't predict it so just give it a chance.
YES, you will see immediate results in that I never needed to shave everyday even after the first treatment, that immediately made me a laser lover. Not to have to bikini wax or shave everyday anymore, ABSOLUTELY.
If I can help only one person this year have a positive laser experience I must say that Laser aesthetics have definitely made my life a lot easier.
I also shopped around initially and I found them to be the most fair and affordable.Listed in: What Do I Buy Her....., The Hair Gods, The Docs That Get It Done
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Review from Nicholas H.
Walnut Creek, CA
1/15/2011
Great staff and excellent results. They are truly professional. However they are at 490 Post not 450 post-I initally could not find them. Very fairly priced.
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Review from Michelle B.
San Francisco, CA
3/10/2006
LOVE THIS PLACE! Their prices are soooo reasonable and after 3 or 4 sessions, your hairless! yippee! of course, a few touch ups once a year or so.....
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Review from Vanessa A.
Berkeley, CA
12/18/2006
I went to this place for 2 sessions over 2 years ago and was super impressed with the staff and the results. The nurse who helped me was amazing. I finally went back for that 3rd appointment about a month ago to find that the nurse was replaced with an equally competent and charming woman. They gave me the return visitor rate (score!) and I also found out that they had a wider and stronger laser than when I had originally been there. Hairless is so much better. After 3 treatments, I don't have to shave my underarms at all, and my legs can go for weeks. The upper lip is tougher, but since I had it done for the first time on my 3rd visit, I don't mind going a few more times for it. Just remember - once it gets lasered, it ain't coming back, so think hard about those fad bikini styles before you zap it away.
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Review from Laura H.
San Francisco, CA
6/4/2008
I've gone here for 4 treatments so far, on my legs, bikini line, and underarms. The staff is friendly, professional, and discreet (you can feel pretty exposed at times). I find it painful, but really well worth it. I have skin allergies that are aggravated by hair follicles, and laser removal has almost completely rid me of the allergic reactions. It's also SO nice to not have to shave ever!
I love this place. The prices are great, the new space is nice, if a little hard to find, and the nurses are super nice. -
Review from Kyle T.
San Francisco, CA
12/31/2008
I've been here several times. the new location is amazing! So upscale, modern and sophisticated! Definitely an expensive spa vibe, not a stale Dr's office feeling at all. Staff is so friendly and professional. I recommend this place to all my friends...
I'm having my facial hair lasered.. It hurts a bit, but it's so worth it.
This place is amazing!! -
Review from Anonymous A.
San Francisco, CA
1/18/2009
I am writing this review because I CARE about the lives of OTHERS, unlike Nurse, Cynthia at Aesthetic laser. She burned me last week!! ... BEWARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Review from Eric A.
San Francisco, CA
3/18/2010
Out of all the laser hair removal places in the city this is probably your best bet unless money is not an issue (I have tried 3 or 4 places, and also shopped around). This has by far the cheapest price (still expensive though) and close to the best service. However, no matter what they tell you and what you are led to believe: Laser hair removal is not permanent. It is permanent hair reduction at best. REDUCTION. Some places let you believe that once will do it. haha.. no. then they say it will take 3 times.....no. then they say 6 times... no. then they say 10 times.. seeing a pattern? Over 10K bucks later I can tell you without a doubt that laser will not work 100%. 2 weeks after your treatment, once all the hairs have fallen out, you will be perfectly hairless for maybe 3 or 4 weeks. That's the sweet spot, but it will come back. It is faster and less painful than electrolysis though which I found to be unbearable torture. This is my favorite place but loses a star because these places really don't drive home the truth about laser hair removal and the costs.
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Review from Fi C.
South San Francisco, CA
2/22/2008
Lisa was very professional which made the whole process less painful. Choose the $90 per 20mins option. Prices cannot be beat!
