Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions About Laser Hair Removal, IPL, and Skin Treatments in Calgary—Answered
Laser Hair Removal FAQ
Where is Elysian Laser located?
We’re located at 152 Mahogany Centre SE, Calgary, AB T3M 2V6, in the Westman Village, Mahogany area of Southeast Calgary. We serve clients throughout Calgary, Chestermere, Okotoks, and surrounding areas.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes! We offer complimentary consultations for all services. During your consultation, we’ll assess your skin, discuss your goals, explain treatment options, and create an honest, customized plan with no pressure to book or make any purchases.
What should I expect from my first visit?
Your first visit includes a thorough consultation where we discuss your concerns, examine your skin type, review medical history if relevant, explain suitable treatments, answer all questions honestly, and give a quote for any treatments you are interested in. At this point, you are also welcome to try a small test area of any treatment, like a small IPL area or a small body area (usually underarms) for laser hair removal, so that you can get the entire picture before deciding anything
Which types of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, credit cards (VISA and MasterCard), debit cards, and e-transfer.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book by clicking the “Book Your Appointment” button above, calling or texting 368-399-4013, emailing info@elysianlaser.ca, or booking online. We always respond within 12 hours and offer flexible scheduling.
How much does Laser Hair Removal cost in Calgary?
Laser hair removal pricing varies by treatment area. Small areas (upper lip, chin, underarms) typically range from $50-$100 per session. Medium areas (Brazilian, bikini, lower legs) range from $100-$225. Large areas (full legs, full back) range from $400-$500. Most clients need an average of 6-12 sessions, depending on how much hair they have in a certain area. Some may be below or above this average. You can rest assures that your investment in your laser treatment is valued, as we offer a guarantee that each and every treatment will work properly, otherwise we will touch up any unaffected hair for free (within the 2-4 week period after the laser session where this is visible)..
What should I avoid after Laser Hair Removal?
Avoid sun exposure for at least one week post-treatment and wear SPF 30+ daily. No hot tubs, saunas, or intense exercise for 24-48 hours, as this will cause bacteria to collect in the pores. Avoid perfumed products or acids/retinol on treated areas for 24 hours. Exfoliate gently after 5-7 days to help shed treated hair stubble.
Can I get Laser Hair Removal if I am pregnant or nursing?
We don’t recommend laser hair removal during pregnancy as a precaution, though there’s no evidence of harm. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect hair growth and pain levels. You can safely resume treatments after delivery of your baby and once hormones stabilize.
Will the hair eventually grow back after Laser Hair Removal?
When done properly with medical-grade equipment like our Quanta Evo system, laser hair removal provides permanent reduction of 80-95% of treated hair. Some clients may need occasional partial touch-ups years later for a few random hairs, but the vast majority of treated follicles are permanently disabled when done properly.
Why are lasers better than IPL for Hair Removal?
True medical-grade lasers (like our Alexandrite and Nd:YAG) are significantly more effective and safer than IPL for permanent hair removal. Lasers deliver precise wavelengths that penetrate deeper into hair follicles, providing more permanent results with fewer sessions. IPL uses broad-spectrum light that’s less focused and typically less effective long-term. Additionally, IPL devices can be unsafe for darker skin tones. They are a more cost effective technology which is why many clinics purchase them, but we believe safety and efficacy are more important than cost savings. Our medical-grade laser technology is safer for all skin types and provides truly permanent hair reduction—not just temporary reduction like many IPL devices.
IPL Photofacial FAQ
What is an IPL Photofacial?
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) photofacial is a non-invasive light therapy that treats sun damage, age spots, freckles, redness, broken capillaries, and uneven skin tone. It uses broad-spectrum light through a crystal placed on the skin to target pigment (melanin) and blood vessels (hemoglobin) without damaging surrounding skin.
How much does an IPL Photofacial cost in Calgary?
IPL photofacial treatments typically range from $160-$400+ per session, depending on the treatment area. Full face is $270. Most clients see significant improvement with even one session, though some clients with severe Rosacea or significant pigmentation may need 2-3 sessions spaced 3-4 weeks apart.
What does an IPL treat?
IPL effectively treats sun spots/age spots, freckles, sun damage, redness and rosacea, small broken blood vessels, uneven skin tone, mild acne and acne scarring, and overall skin tone improvement. It’s excellent for facial rejuvenation and creating more even glowing, youthful-looking skin.
How long does it take to see results from IPL?
You’ll notice darkening of any pigmented spots immediately after treatment—this is a good sign the treatment is working. These spots will fade away over 7-10 days, revealing more even skin. Redness will slowly fade over the 1-2 weeks after treatment. Optimal results appear 2-3 weeks after treatment as your skin continues to heal and regenerate.
Is IPL Photofacial painful?
Most clients describe IPL as a warm snapping sensation, similar to a rubber band. It is mildly uncomfortable, but generally well-tolerated and does not require numbing cream. Sensitivity varies by area—bony areas like the nose may be more sensitive than cheeks or jawline. The treatment is quick (15-30 minutes) and discomfort is overall minimal. There is no pain and usually no swelling after the treatment.
Is there downtime after IPL?
IPL has minimal downtime. You may have mild redness or blotchy skin (that looks like a light sunburn, without pain) for a few hours up to 2 days. Treated pigmented spots will darken and gradually fade over 7-10 days. Most clients return to normal activities immediately, though we recommend avoiding sun exposure and wearing mineral SPF during healing. Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours after treatment, as it can dilate blood vessels and increase inflammation in the treated area, which will cause heat, redness and delayed healing.
Can IPL be done on dark skin?
IPL is safest on lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-III) because it targets the contrast between pigmented spots and surrounding skin. For darker skin tones (IV-VI), IPL will cause the skin to retain the heat for longer than intended. This carries a very high risk of hyperpigmentation and burns, and IPL should not be performed on dark skin.
What should I avoid before and after IPL treatments?
Before: Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 6-8 weeks, depending on your skin tone and how quickly your tan fades. Use high SPF sunscreen daily. Avoid retinoids, glycolic acid, or harsh exfoliants for 1 week prior. Arrive with clean skin (no makeup). Non tinted moisturizers are fine.
After: Avoid prolonged sun exposure for 2 weeks and wear SPF 30+ religiously, preferably mineral. No hot tubs, saunas, or intense exercise for 24-48 hours. Avoid harsh skincare products for 1 week. Keep skin moisturized and be gentle.
How is IPL different than laser treatments?
IPL uses broad-spectrum light (multiple wavelengths (depths)) to treat multiple skin concerns simultaneously, while lasers use a single, specific wavelength for deeper, more targeted treatments. Lasers are more powerful and precise for specific concerns. We’ll recommend the best option for your skin type and goals during consultation.
Can IPL be used for hair removal and skin rejuvenation?
Yes, IPL can be used for both, but it’s not ideal for hair removal. IPL truly excels at skin rejuvenation concerns like sun damage, pigmentation, redness, and rosacea—this is where it shines! For hair removal, true medical-grade lasers (like our Alexandrite and Nd:YAG) provide far superior and more permanent results. We strategically use IPL where it works best—photofacials, pigmentation correction, and vascular concerns—while using our advanced laser technology for hair removal. This ensures you get the most effective treatment for each concern rather than settling for “good enough”.
C02 Skin Resurfacing FAQ
What's the difference between CoolPeel and C02 deep resurfacing treatments?
CoolPeel CO2 is a lighter treatment using ultra-short pulses that creates micro columns in the superficial skin layers with minimal heat, resulting in only 1-2 days of downtime (red skin and avoiding any sun exposure). It’s ideal for tightening pores, skin texture, mild sun damage and creating overall glowing, healthy looking skin with a more even tone.
Deep CO2 Resurfacing (DEKA technology) penetrates deeper for more dramatic results on severe wrinkles, significant sun damage, and deep acne scars, with 7-14 days downtime. We’ll recommend the best option for you, based on your concerns, budget and lifestyle.
How much does C02 laser treatment cost?
CoolPeel CO2 typically ranges from $600-$1,500 per treatment. $600 for full face.
Deep CO2 resurfacing ranges from $600-$1,800+ depending on treatment area (face, neck, decollete, etc). Full face is $1,200. Many clients achieve their goals with a single treatment, which lasts for years, though some may benefit from 2-3 sessions spaced several months apart for optimal results.
How long is the recovery from C02 laser?
CO2 laser effectively treats moderate to severe wrinkles and fine lines, significant sun damage and age spots, acne scars and other scarring, skin laxity and sagging, uneven texture and rough skin, enlarged pores, age-related skin changes, and precancerous lesions (with physician consent).
How long is the recovery from C02 laser?
CoolPeel: 1-4 days of mild redness and light flaking, similar to a sunburn. There is no pain beyond 1-2 hours post treatment. Most return to normal activities within 1-2 days with makeup and mineral sunscreen.
Deep CO2: 5-10 days of more significant redness and some swelling on Days 1-2. Initial healing takes 5-10 days; pinkness may persist 1-3 weeks (depending on the intensity of the treatment) but can be covered with mineral makeup. We provide very detailed aftercare instructions and products to optimize healing.
Am I a good candidate for C02 laser?
Good candidates have realistic expectations, are in good health, live decently healthy lifestyles, have specific concerns (wrinkles, large pores, sun damage, scars), can commit to proper aftercare including sun avoidance. They aren’t currently taking Accutane, blood thinners, biologics or similar medications. A consultation will determine if (or which type of) CO2 laser is right for your skin type and goals.
What should I do before Laser Hair Removal?
CO2 laser provides long-lasting results because it actually remodels your skin structure and stimulates new collagen production. Many clients enjoy results for several years or longer with proper skincare and sun protection. Aging continues naturally, but treated skin treated with C02 lasers remains significantly improved over time, compared to untreated skin.
CO2 Treatments look scary in online photos, should I be concerned about damaging my skin or scarring from this treatment?
While researching CO2 laser treatments, you may feel concerned after seeing dramatic recovery photos online. These typically represent intensive, deep-ablative procedures performed by plastic surgeons that require weeks of downtime. They also seem to reflect the lack of proper after care, which is crucial. In contrast, at Elysian Laser, we use advanced Tetra Deka technology for precisely controlled treatments that balance safety with excellent results, making complications extremely rare when performed by our experienced technicians.
The key to successful treatment is simply following our detailed aftercare instructions and maintaining communication with your technician. Scarring is not typical and generally only occurs if infection develops, which is easily prevented with proper aftercare. We monitor your skin’s response closely, and many clients are surprised by how manageable recovery is, especially with our gentler CoolPeel® option that offers minimal downtime while still improving skin texture and tone.
What does recovery look like after a more aggressive CO2 treatment?
The recovery from an intensive CO2 laser treatment requires careful attention and dedication to the healing process.
After a CO2 laser treatment, expect your skin to feel hot and tight like a sunburn for 1-2 hours, followed by redness (2-8 days) and swelling (especially around the eyes) for 2-3 days. Use ice packs, Tylenol for pain, apply plenty of the skin care creams provided and stay very hydrated. Throughout recovery, follow a strict aftercare routine with gentle cleansing and healing ointments to prevent infection and optimize results.
Is C02 laser safe for dark skin tones?
CO2 laser can sometimes be performed on darker skin tones, but it requires advanced technology and proper preparation to prevent hyperpigmentation. Our DEKA CO2 technology is significantly safer for darker skin than traditional CO2 systems, with better control and less heat damage. For darker skin (Asian, South Asian, Filipino, etc) , we typically recommend a Hydroquinone prep protocol 4-8 weeks before treatment to reduce melanin activity and minimize the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This preparation, combined with our advanced DEKA technology and 10+ years of experience, ensures optimal results with minimal complications. Often, the deepest settings cannot be used on darker skin tones, however.
Why is skin prep with Hydroquinone important for darker skin tones before C02 laser?
For clients with darker skin tones or those prone to hyperpigmentation, prepping with hydroquinone 2-4 weeks before CO2 laser is crucial for preventing post-inflammatory darkening. Hydroquinone temporarily reduces melanin production, making your skin less reactive to the laser’s heat and significantly lowering the risk of dark spots developing after treatment. Our DEKA CO2 technology already offers superior safety compared to older systems, but combining it with proper skin prep ensures the best possible results, especially for medium to darker skin tones. We’ll assess your skin during consultation and create a customized prep protocol if needed.
Acne & Milia Treatment FAQ
What types of acne can you treat?
We effectively treat active inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, cystic acne, acne scars (ice pick, boxcar, rolling scars), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks after acne), and ongoing breakouts. Our combination approach often uses Nd:YAG laser, C02 laser and IPL therapy for comprehensive results.
How does laser acne treatment work?
Our Nd:YAG laser penetrates deep into skin to target inflammation, reduce oil production by increasing blood flow to the skin, shrinking sebaceous glands, killing acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes), and reducing redness and swelling. IPL therapy complements this by targeting surface redness, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and promoting overall healing. C02 laser can help to remodel and smooth acne scars.
Can laser treatment cure acne permanently?
Laser treatment significantly reduces acne by addressing underlying causes (bacteria, oil production, inflammation), but acne is a complex inflammatory condition influenced by hormones, genetics, diet and lifestyle. Most clients experience temporary improvement with laser, though maintenance treatments may be needed if hormonal factors persist. We recommend a comprehensive approach including laser, proper skincare, and consulting with a dietician or naturopath to discuss healthy eating habits and possible supplements to help with the internal inflammation that causes the acne flare ups.
What is Milia and do I have it?
Milia are small, white, hard bumps that form when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin’s surface, creating tiny keratin-filled cysts. They commonly appear around eyes, nose, and cheeks. Causes include heavy skincare products, sun damage, skin trauma, or sometimes no identifiable cause. Unlike acne, they won’t resolve on their own and usually cannot be removed by picking or using needles to extract them at home.
How do you remove Milia?
We use tiny, heated needles (called cautery) to create a tiny opening in the skin, allowing the keratin buildup to be safely extracted. The procedure is quick (usually 15-30 minutes depending on the number of lesions to be treated) and is minimally uncomfortable. Numbing cream can be used for an extra charge, although most clients find they don’t require it. Unlike DIY attempts, professional removal prevents scarring and typically ensures complete removal.
Is Milia removal painful?
Most clients report minimal discomfort. The sensation is brief and tolerable—often described as a quick, hot poke. For sensitive areas or larger clusters, we can use numbing cream if requested. There is no pain after the treatment. The relief of finally being rid of stubborn bumps usually outweighs the momentary discomfort.
Will Milia come back after they are removed?
Once professionally removed, those specific milia are gone permanently. However, new milia can form if underlying causes persist (heavy skin care products, sun damage). We provide guidance on prevention including proper skincare product selection (lightweight moisturizers, gel cleansers, retinol, etc), gentle exfoliation, and sun protection with lightweight mineral sunscreen to minimize future milia from forming.
Can I remove Milia myself at home?
We strongly advise against attempting to remove milia yourself. Unlike pimples, milia are keratin-filled cysts beneath the skin’s surface—trying to squeeze or pop them can cause scarring, infection, and often doesn’t work. Professional laser or cautery removal is quick, safe, and provides immediate results without damaging your skin.
What are these small flesh colored bumps on my face?
You’re likely describing sebaceous hyperplasia—small, flesh-colored or slightly yellowish bumps (often with a tiny indent in the center) that commonly appear on the forehead, nose, and cheeks. These form when oil glands become enlarged, trapping sebum beneath the skin. They’re completely harmless but can be bothersome cosmetically. We can safely remove them using advanced laser or cautery technology.
Why do I get small white bumps that won't pop?
If you have small, hard white bumps that don’t respond to typical acne treatments and won’t pop or go away on their own, you’re likely dealing with milia. These form when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin’s surface. They’re very common around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. Professional removal with laser technology is the most effective solution—usually taking just 15-30 minutes with immediate results.
Pigmentation, Sun Damage & Redness FAQ
What causes sun spots and can they be removed?
Sun spots form when UV exposure causes your skin to overproduce protective pigment cells (melanin) that accumulates at the surface. They’re essentially your skin’s ‘memory’ of past sun damage concentrated into visible brown patches. Even damage from decades ago can suddenly appear. They can be effectively removed using IPL or different laser treatments that target and break up excess melanin, which your body then naturally eliminates.
What is the best treatment for sun damage and pigmentation?
IThe best treatment depends on your skin type and sun damage severity. Here are some examples:
– **Light skin + mild sun damage:** IPL photofacial (1-2 sessions)
– **Light skin + moderate sun damage:** CoolPeel CO2 and/or IPL series of 1-3 sessions with laser treatment of any deep, stubborn pigment spots.
– **Light skin + severe damage:** 2-3 Sessions of IPL and laser for deeper pigment or Medium to Deep CO2 resurfacing.
IPL and laser can also be combined with C02 to ensure complete removal of any stubborn or annoying spots.
– **Medium or dark skin tones + any level of sun damage:** CoolPeel combined with lightening skin care products like Skinceuticals Phloretin or Discoloration serums, retinol, Hydroquinone, etc
We’ll assess your skin and recommend the most effective, safest option during your consultation.
How long does it take to see improvement with pigmentation?
IPL: Spots darken immediately, flake off in 7-10 days, with continued improvement over 2-3 weeks. Optimal results are seen after 2 weeks. 2-3 sessions may be needed for more extensive dun damage.
Alexandrite Laser: Similar timeline, lesions may be more red for a few days than IPL, but often more dramatic results per session. More effective for deeper sun damage.
CO2: Immediate improvement for sun damage (approx. 7 days). Progressive improvement for skin tightening over 6-9 months as new collagen forms and skin regenerates.
Can you treat Melasma?
Melasma is challenging because it’s hormonally driven and can be stubborn. It is also worsened by heat and UV exposure. We can help to lighten melasma, but results vary and require realistic expectations. As lasers can worsen melasma, we recommend Medical-grade skincare (hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C) and asking your health care provider about supplements like Zinc and Glutathione. SPF Sun protection (preferably mineral) is absolutely critical for melasma management.
What causes broken vessels on the face?
Broken capillaries result from sun damage, rosacea, genetics, aging, trauma, alcohol consumption, temperature extremes, or hormonal changes. Once damaged, they don’t repair themselves and remain visible at the surface of the skin. Professional treatment is the only way to effectively eliminate them.
How do you treat Rosacea and facial redness?
We use ND:Yag laser or electrocautery therapy to target hemoglobin in blood vessels. The light or heated needle energy heats and collapses dilated capillaries, which are then absorbed by your body. This reduces overall redness, visible blood vessels, and flushing. Most clients see significant improvement after even one session, with maintenance treatments as needed.
Is facial redness permanent?
Treated vessels are permanently eliminated. However, rosacea is a chronic condition and new vessels can form over time, especially without proper management (sun protection, gentle skincare, alcohol avoidance). Many clients find that maintenance treatments every 1-2 years keep redness controlled.
What's the difference between age spots and sun spots?
They’re actually the same thing! “Age spots” is a common term, but it’s a bit misleading—these spots aren’t caused by aging, they’re caused by sun exposure over time. That’s why dermatologists call them “sun spots” or “solar lentigines.” The spots you see today were created years or even decades ago from UV damage. Whether you call them age spots, sun spots, liver spots, or brown spots, they’re all treated the same way—with IPL photofacials or laser treatments that target and break up the excess pigment.
Can hyperpigmentation be permanently removed?
Yes! With the right treatment, hyperpigmentation can be permanently removed or significantly reduced. IPL photofacials and laser treatments break up concentrated melanin deposits, which your body then naturally eliminates. However, your skin can always create NEW pigmentation if exposed to UV rays without protection, so daily SPF 50+ is essential to maintain your results. For hormonal pigmentation like melasma, results can be more challenging and may require ongoing maintenance, but we create customized treatment plans for lasting improvement.
How long does it take to see results from pigmentation treatments?
Results vary by treatment type. With IPL photofacials, treated spots darken immediately (a good sign!), then flake off over 7-10 days, revealing clearer skin. You’ll see continued improvement over 4-6 weeks as your skin regenerates. Most clients achieve optimal results after 2-3 IPL sessions spaced 4 weeks apart. For deeper pigmentation or CO2 laser treatments, improvement is progressive over 3-6 months as new collagen forms and skin continues to renew. During your consultation, we’ll set realistic expectations based on your specific pigmentation type and skin tone.
Laser Technology & Safety FAQ
What equipment do you use?
We use the Quanta Evo system—top-tier, medical-grade technology made in Italy. It features both Alexandrite laser (755nm) and Nd:YAG laser (1064nm) for hair removal, plus IPL capabilities. For CO2 treatments, we use advanced DEKA CO2 technology. This equipment was carefully chosen for safety, effectiveness, and superior results with over 35 years of research behind the manufacturers.
Are laser treatments safe?
When performed by trained professionals using medical-grade equipment, laser treatments are very safe. Our 10+ years of experience, quality equipment, proper setting selection for each skin type, and thorough consultations ensure your safety. We conduct test spots when appropriate and never recommend treatments that aren’t safe or suitable for your skin.
Do you perform test spots?
Yes! For laser hair removal on blonde/red hair or darker skin tones, we offer complimentary test spots to ensure safe, effective treatment before committing to full sessions. Test spots are also available for other concerns and treatments if you’re uncertain about how your skin will respond, or want to see how the treatment will feel.
What training and experience do you have?
Alaina has over 10 years of specialized experience in laser aesthetics as well as certifications for laser and medical aesthetics. She continually updates her knowledge with ongoing education, manufacturer training, and industry developments. Her priority is providing honest, safe, effective treatments customized to each client’s unique needs—never using aggressive sales tactics just to sell more treatments.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, we require a deposit to secure your appointment for longer treatments like full body laser hair removal or Deep C02 treatments. Deposits are applied toward your treatment cost. This ensures committed bookings and respects everyone’s time. Deposit policies and cancellation terms are clearly explained when booking. Clients who cancel their appointments last minute or no-show their appointments may be asked to pay a deposit to secure future appointments.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24-72 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling, depending on the length of the booking. Late cancellations or no-shows forfeit deposits. We understand emergencies happen—please communicate with us as soon as possible and we’ll work with you when we can.
Can I bring someone or my child to my appointment?
You’re welcome to bring a support person or your child to your consultation. For treatments, we prefer clients come alone to maintain a calm, focused environment and ensure safety, but exceptions can be made in some cases, if needed.
Do you offer package deals?
Instead of traditional packages, we believe in a more client focused system and use a flexible “punch card” system—pay per session as you go. After completing 5 of the same treatment, your 6th session is FREE! This approach is easier on your budget with no large upfront costs, gives you flexibility if you need to pause or change treatments, and means no refund complications if life circumstances change. It’s all the savings of the packages offered by other clinics, without being locked in.
How do I know if a laser clinic is using quality equipment?
Quality equipment makes a huge difference in safety and results. Look for clinics using medical-grade lasers from reputable manufacturers (not IPL devices marketed as “laser”). At Elysian Laser Aesthetics, we use the Quanta Evo system—top-tier technology from Italy with over 35 years of research and development behind the manufacturer. Red flags include clinics that can’t or won’t tell you what equipment they use, advertise “laser” treatments that are actually cheaper IPL devices, or offer prices significantly lower than competitors (often indicating lower-quality equipment). Ask about the specific laser type (Alexandrite, Nd:YAG, CO2, etc.), the manufacturer, and the technician’s training. Quality clinics are transparent about their technology because it’s a competitive advantage.
Have a question not answered here?
📞 Call or Text: 368-399-4013
✉️ Email: info@elysianlaser.ca
🌐 Website: www.elysianlaser.ca
📍 Location: 152 Mahogany Centre SE, Calgary, AB T3M 2V6
We typically respond within 12 hours and are happy to answer any questions about treatments, pricing, or whether we’re the right fit for your needs. Book your free, no pressure consultation today!