Frequently Asked Questions

Laser hair removal is a approved procedure that uses concentrated pulses of light to target and eliminate unwanted hair on the face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, and other areas of the body. The laser energy penetrates beneath the skin to damage hair follicles, effectively reducing their ability to produce new hair.

While results are highly effective, multiple sessions are usually required to achieve optimal, long-lasting hair reduction. This is because hair grows in cycles, and laser treatment is most effective during the active growth phase.

 
Why We Use the Diode Laser 
At Sophistique Beauty Specialists, we use the advanced Diode Laser — a powerful, clinically proven system known for its precision and comfort.

The diode laser works by emitting a highly concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in your hair follicles. This light energy is converted into heat, which safely disables the follicle’s ability to regrow hair — all in less than a second per pulse.

Thanks to its advanced sapphire cooling tip, the Diode laser system protects the upper layers of your skin throughout the procedure, ensuring a more comfortable experience while allowing the laser to reach deeper into the follicle for superior results.

The diode laser is ideal for all skin types and offers a safe, effective, and virtually pain-free solution for long-term hair reduction.

Laser hair removal is a highly effective solution for reducing and eliminating unwanted hair on nearly every area of the body — with the exception of the eye area, which is not treated for safety reasons.

When you choose Sophistique Beauty Specialists, you’re choosing expert care, advanced technology, and outstanding results. Some of the key benefits of our laser hair removal treatments include:

Non-Invasive & Safe – A gentle yet highly effective solution with no needles or surgical intervention.

Quick & Convenient – Treatments are fast and carried out in-clinic, with minimal disruption to your day.

Expert Practitioners – All procedures are performed by fully certified, experienced laser specialists.

Enhanced Comfort – Our advanced diode system offers a far more comfortable experience than waxing or older laser methods.

No Downtime – Return to your routine immediately after treatment — no recovery time needed.

Skin-Friendly Technology – Designed to target hair precisely, with minimal to no impact on surrounding skin.

Enjoy smoother skin with confidence, knowing you're in the safest hands at our award-winning clinic.

Laser hair removal can effectively treat unwanted hair on many areas of the body. Some of the most commonly treated areas include:

Legs
Bikini line
Arms
Underarms
Upper lip
Chin
Back

At Sophistique Beauty Specialists, laser hair removal is a quick and comfortable treatment that can easily be completed during a short salon visit. Our experienced laser technicians use advanced technology to precisely target hair follicles while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. The procedure is fast, non-invasive, and designed to cause minimal discomfort, making it ideal for even the busiest schedules.

In order for laser treatment to fully remove hair long-term, multiple treatment sessions may be necessary. The exact amount of treatments needed will vary depending on your:

• Hair density
• Hair color
• Skin color
• Hair texture
• Hair growth cycle

Advanced Diode Laser Hair Removal at Sophistique Beauty Specialists

At Sophistique Beauty Specialists, we’re proud to offer one of the fastest, most advanced hair removal systems on the market — our state-of-the-art Diode Laser technology.

This cutting-edge system delivers exceptional results that are faster, safer, and more comfortable than traditional methods such as waxing, or older laser technologies. It’s designed with all skin types in mind, including darker tones, and is suitable for most face and body areas — including the bikini zone.

Why Choose Our Diode Laser?

Speed & Efficiency: Thanks to its powerful output and rapid repetition rate, a full leg treatment can be completed in as little as 30 minutes.

Pain-Free Precision: Featuring a revolutionary sapphire cooling tip and -10ºC crystal freeze contact technology, the system protects the skin’s surface while numbing the treatment area for maximum comfort — no downtime or discomfort.
Clinically Proven Results: Most clients see visible hair reduction after just one session, with optimal results typically achieved in a course of 6–8 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart.

Permanent Hair Reduction: The Diode laser targets the pigment in the hair follicle with a concentrated beam of light, causing controlled thermal damage that prevents regrowth.

Diode technology delivers high-frequency, low-fluence pulses — making it safer and more effective for a wider range of skin types, including tanned or darker skin.

Experience smooth, hair-free skin — faster, safer, and more comfortably — with Sophistique’s award-winning expertise and advanced Diode Laser treatments.

Yes — our diode laser system is designed to permanently reduce hair growth. Once a hair follicle is effectively treated, it will not grow back.

However, it’s important to note that future hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause) can trigger the growth of new hair in previously treated areas. In such cases, additional sessions may be needed.

To maintain long-term results and keep any stray or newly developed hairs under control, we typically recommend 1–2 maintenance sessions per year.

On average, 6–8 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart are recommended to achieve optimal results. This is because laser hair removal is only effective on hairs that are in the active growth phase (anagen) or visible at the skin’s surface. Since hair grows in cycles, multiple treatments are necessary to target all follicles effectively.

Thanks to the high power output and advanced skin cooling technology of our medical-grade diode laser, most clients see results with fewer sessions — typically 6–8, compared to 8–12 or more with older IPL or lower-grade laser systems.

In some cases, additional sessions may be required due to hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause), which can stimulate new hair growth. To maintain smooth, long-lasting results, 1–2 maintenance sessions per year are often recommended to manage any stray or newly emerging hairs.

A patch test is required at least 48 hours before your first treatment (20 min – £25) 

Recommended courses:
Typically 6 sessions are needed, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Occasionally 6–12 sessions may be needed, depending on hair type and hormonal factors. All courses are valid for 6 months from purchase and are non-refundable 

Face Treatments
Brows (middle only): £32 per session or £179 for a course of 6
Upper lip: £32 per session or £179 for 6
Chin: £32 per session or £179 for 6
Upper lip & chin: £56 per session or £311 for 6
Sideburns: £56 per session or £311 for 6
Half face: £68 per session or £377 for 6
Full face: £116 per session or £641 for 6
Neck: £68 per session or £377 for 6
 
Upper Body Treatments
Underarms: £68 per session or £377 for 6
Half arms: £107 per session or £587 for 6
Full arms: £131 per session or £719 for 6
Hands: £116 per session or £641 for 6
Fingers: £59 per session or £323 for 6
Shoulders: £107 per session or £587 for 6
Upper back: £119 per session or £653 for 6
Full back & shoulders: £179 per session or £983 for 6
Lower back: £119 per session or £653 for 6
Chest (excluding nipples): £119 per session or £653 for 6
Chest (including nipples): £131 per session or £719 for 6
Nipples: £68 per session or £377 for 6
Naval area: £68 per session or £377 for 6
Beard: £140 per session or £773 for 6
 
Lower Body Treatments
Bikini line / Standard bikini: £68 per session or £377 for 6
Brazilian: £116 per session or £641 for 6
Hollywood: £164 per session or £905 for 6
Perianal area: £116 per session or £641 for 6
Buttocks: £143 per session or £665 for 6
Thighs (including knees): £116 per session or £641 for 6
Lower legs: £116 per session or £641 for 6
Full legs (excluding feet): £164 per session or £905 for 6
Feet or toes: £32 per session or £179 for 6
 
Full Body Packages
Full body (women, excluding face and neck): £2,160 for 6 sessions
Full body (men, excluding face and neck): £2,400 for 6 sessions 

Booking reminder:
Book your patch test at least 48 hours prior to starting any course. Sessions are scheduled 4–6 weeks apart, and courses must be completed within 6 months

To ensure your safety and achieve the best possible results, please follow the pre-treatment instructions below carefully:

1. Shaving & Skin Preparation

The treatment area must be completely free from all creams, lotions, makeup, deodorant, and topical products.
Shave the area 2–12 hours prior to your appointment. Shaving too close to your session can increase skin sensitivity.

2. Sun Exposure & Tanning

Although tanned skin can be treated, we advise avoiding direct sun exposure and sunbeds for at least 2 weeks before treatment.
If sun exposure is unavoidable, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30–50+ sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and keep the area covered where possible.
The more natural your skin tone at the time of treatment, the better your results will be.

3. Tanning Products

Discontinue tanning creams and sprays at least 1 week prior to treatment.
Ensure the area has been thoroughly exfoliated to remove any residue before your session.

4. Hair Removal Methods

Do not wax, pluck, epilate, or bleach the area for at least 4 weeks before your treatment. These methods remove the hair root, which is essential for laser to work.
Depilatory creams (e.g. Veet, Nair) should be avoided at least 1 week prior.

5. Skincare Products & Medications

Avoid essential oils on the treatment area for 48 hours prior.
If prone to cold sores (especially when treating the upper lip), take antiviral medication 5 days before and 5 days after treatment as a preventive measure.

If you are currently taking antibiotics, wait at least 2 weeks after completing the course before starting laser sessions.
Following these guidelines will help minimise side effects and ensure the laser can target hair follicles effectively. If you have any questions about preparation or need advice, please don’t hesitate to contact the clinic before your appointment.

To ensure optimal results and protect your skin following laser hair removal, please follow the aftercare advice below:

1. Calm & Soothe the Skin

If any redness or mild swelling occurs, apply a soothing gel such as Aloe Vera to the treated area as needed. This is normal and typically subsides within a few hours.

2. Avoid Irritants

Refrain from using perfumes, antiperspirants, or deodorants on the treated area for 24–48 hours, especially for underarm or facial treatments.

3. Keep Cool & Avoid Heat

Avoid hot baths, saunas, steam rooms, jacuzzis, massages, or intense exercise for 2–3 days post-treatment. Heat and sweat can irritate the treated skin and delay healing.

4. Sun Protection Is Essential

Avoid sun exposure and sunbeds for at least 2 weeks following treatment. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can cause damage to sensitised skin.
Apply a high-factor SPF 30–50+ sunscreen daily that protects against UVA and UVB rays, and cover the area when possible.

5. Manage Discomfort & Reactions

Antihistamines may be used to relieve any itching that may occur (although rare).
Do not scratch or pick at the treated area.
6. Skincare Product Caution

For 7 days post-treatment, avoid active skincare ingredients such as:

AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
Glycolic Acid
Salicylic Acid
Retinoic Acid (Retin-A)
These can irritate the skin and interfere with the healing process.
 
Following this aftercare routine will help minimise side effects and enhance your long-term results. If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with our clinic for personalised advice.

Laser hair removal may not be suitable for clients with the following conditions or circumstances:

Pregnancy
Epilepsy
Recent sun exposure or tanning within the past 4 weeks (including sunbeds or tanning products)
Birthmarks, moles, or beauty spots within the treatment area
Use of oral or topical medications that may cause photosensitivity or skin thinning (e.g., isotretinoin, certain antibiotics, retinoids)
History of keloid scarring or abnormal wound healing
Open wounds, cuts, or abrasions in the treatment area
Photosensitivity due to illness or medications
Active Herpes Simplex (cold sores) in the treatment area
Presence of pacemakers, metal implants, or surgical grafts in or near the treatment zone
History of skin cancer or any active cancer diagnosis
Active infections or immunosuppressive conditions
Use of immunosuppressive medication
Clotting disorders or use of anticoagulants (blood thinners)
Diabetes, particularly if poorly controlled or with skin complications
Phlebitis (inflammation of the veins)
Raised or keloid scars
Active skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis in the treatment area
 
If you have any concerns about your suitability for treatment, please contact the clinic before booking. A full medical history will be taken during your consultation to ensure safety and efficacy.

Electrolysis can treat any colour hair on any skin tone. There is no ‘ideal’ candidate – any person who has unwanted hair can have their hair removed, 100% permanently, with electrolysis.

You can have electrolysis in any non-mucosal area on any area of the body.

Different factors like how much hair is in the area, medical history and medication, hormonal issues, genetics and previous hair removal method will all determine how long the process will take for you. It may take a total of 10 hours – it may take 100+. Depending on how often you have treatment, this could take 8 months – 18 months+, it is therefore impossible to say and the only question I am unable to answer with any accuracy.

Naturally, the more often you can attend for full clearance of unwanted hair – the quicker you will see results.

No. The only way to remove any length of unwanted hair between treatments is to trim or lightly shave. Better still; schedule your appointments so that trimming is not needed so hair can be targeted in its Anagen (active growing) stage.

Electrolysis treatment requires you to ‘grow out’ you unwanted hair. Typically for a few days, but depending on speed of hair growth, hair needs to be visible – 3 - 4mm in length is ideal for optimum treatment. Hair need not be much longer – if it is, please trim the area prior to your appointment.

Certain medical conditions deem electrolysis unsafe to proceed. See the list below for a quick guide to those conditions which unfortunately, definitively rule out electrolysis. Other conditions may be restrictive which aren’t listed and it may be that a GP note is sought prior to any treatment being offered.

• Accutane (active use needs to have stopped for 12 months)
• Active Cancer (all forms)
• Active Herpes Virus / Cold Sores
• Blood Thinning Medication
• Blood Disorders
• Cochlear Implants (for advanced electrolysis treatments)
• Dermatographia
• Haemophilia
• Keloid Scarring
• Pacemaker
• Pregnancy 
• Recent Scar Tissue (in the treatment area)
• Retinoids (prescription strength)
• Rosacea (active) (in the treatment area)
• Skin Diseases / Disorders
• Sunburn (in the treatment area)

If you feel you have a condition or medical history which may be definitively contra-indicative to treatment, or restrictive in any way – please get in touch prior to booking your consultation.

Hair needs to be long enough for treatment. If there’s no hair there, or it’s just not long enough to grab easily with tweezers – the treatment can’t go ahead.

I am VTCT level 4 qualified in Aesthetics. I am Local Authority (Allerdale) licensed (regulated by the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982) by Environmental Health and insured to meet all of your Health & Safety requirements. I implement strict disinfection procedures. A single use sterile disposable probe is used for each client and is disposed of in a sharps container after each use.

Electrolysis is the only medically approved form of permanent hair removal, as supported by the BMA (British Medical Association), FDA (U.S Food and Drug Administration) and AAA.

Every person has their own personal description as the sensation is totally objective. You may feel nothing and be able to sleep through treatment; you may feel warmth or an itch. Some people describe it as a tiny pinch or a tiny zap with each insertion.

It is important to note that every skin and body is different and some people naturally have much more of a sensitive skin. Hormones have a big part to play in skin sensitivity too – a hormone imbalance or high stress levels amongst other things can create differences in skin sensitivity at any point for any person.

Each skin reacts differently however erythema (a reddening of the skin caused by dilation and congestion of superficial capillaries) and oedema (localised swelling) are considered ‘normal’ for up to 48 hours post epilation. You may display tiny pin dot crusting which may take a little longer to heal. There is a risk of small, temporary bruising, which can occur when small blood vessels leak their contents into the soft tissue beneath the skin or if you have taken aspirin or other blood thinning medication or supplements. An infrequent side effect of electrolysis is the appearance of a tiny white-ish pustule a day or so after treatment.

Some people have no or little visible signs of having any treatment immediately after epilation.

Written and verbal aftercare is always given and you are asked, at consultation, to sign to say you have received this.

For quicker healing, it is advised to avoid the following for 24 – 48 hours:
Touching the area – however clean your hands are – they are full of germs and bacteria and you increase the risk of infection
If you experience pin dot crusting – do not pick, rub or scratch.
Do not use: Hot baths or showers, saunas and steam rooms, Swimming (Chlorinated or Open-Water) Intense Exercise (excessive sweating can trigger a build-up of bacteria and increase risk of infection) Make-Up (in the treated area)
Perfumed products including soaps when washing (deodorant if treating underarms)
Do not tweeze, wax, thread, sugar or use an home epilator on the area (only trimming & light shaving)

Anyone who wants to remove excess hair permanently is a perfect candidate for electrolysis. It is a very desirable solution for unwanted hair for those suffering from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Hirsutism, Hypertrichosis and those going through gender transition.

Though there are no age restrictions for anyone wishing to have electrolysis, parental, child and GP written consent will be necessary for under 18’s.

Absolutely - Sophistique is a LGBTQIA+ safe space, inclusive and will not tolerate any form of hate behaviour.

Details of how your blemish will be treated will be done at consultation – as it’s a different approach for each type of blemish. Aftercare is very much so the same to that listed for electrolysis – but you will be given personalised written and verbal guidance at your appointment. Blemish removal is very much an instantaneous treatment that may take up to 28 days for your skin to fully heal. Repetition of treatment is largely unnecessary unless further unwanted blemishes develop. A treatment plan will always be discussed with you prior to any treatment going ahead.

* A GP letter is required before any treatment is offered for a mole: xanthalasma : sebaceous hyperplasia 

I value your time and schedule greatly. I have a strict Booking Policy in place which you agree to prior to any booking being made. Cancellations will be subject to the terms within my Booking Policy.

Strictly by appointment only, we operate on a 1-1 basis so we are unable to accept walk-ins without a pre-booked appointment.

To book an appointment:

• Click book now in the right-hand corner of our website.
• Select the treatment you would like
• Pay your 50% booking fee this will secure your booking

You are now booked in - we look forward to seeing you at your appointment.

If you have any questions please phone 01973 49021 or email us at hello@s-beauty-s.co.uk and we will get back to you as soon as we can. 

No cancellations or changes allowed within 2 days of the appointment.

Sophistique understands that sometimes schedules change and therefore requests at least 48 hours notice when cancelling or rescheduling your appointment. A booking fee is required to hold your appointment. Appointments cancelled within 48 hours or for which clients are a “No- Show” for will incur a charge of 50% of the service amount. If you cancel on the day or simply do not show you will be charged for the full appointment as you have not given us any opportunity to fill the appointment. If you change your mind to a less appointment you will still be charged for what you booked.

Please note that if you are over 15 minutes late for your appointment we may have to reschedule your service if it cannot be completed in the time frame. If we do not hear from you 15 or more minutes into your scheduled appointment time it is considered a “No-Show” and your card will be charged for 50% of the service.

If you have any questions regarding our policies please give us a call at 016973 49021.