We offer a range of light-based hair reduction options at Best You, including SHR, Diode and IPL. During your consultation your therapist will advise which option is most suitable for you, based on your skin tone, hair colour and other factors we will discuss with you.

SHR, or Super Hair Removal, is a light-based technique used to achieve long-term hair reduction. The system blends the latest technology with the advantages of pulsating light methodology, and can treat hairs that were previously challenging to target. Compared to conventional systems, the treatment is more comfortable and offers better protection for your skin.

What sets SHR and conventional IPL apart?

Conventional laser and IPL methods typically use short pulses lasting around 2-300 milliseconds, delivering significant energy (12-120 Joules per square centimetre). Melanin channels this energy to the hair root, generating temperatures of 65-72°C. However, this energy absorption is not exclusive to melanin: the skin and red blood cells also absorb similar levels, which can cause swelling lasting days, or burns.

SHR technology partially uses the melanin pathway, reaching down to the follicles responsible for hair growth. A slower, longer heating process is used rather than high-energy short bursts. The device glides over the skin 6-10 times, using low energy with rapid repetition (up to 10Hz). This gradual heating at a comfortable 45°C affects hair melanin and the surrounding stem cell tissue.

What are the benefits?

Repeated low-energy impulses in the same area build to an effective intensity, which makes for a more comfortable treatment and better protection for the skin than traditional methods.

How do different hair and skin colours respond?

Fair skin with dark hair responds best. Alongside targeting melanin, SHR technology also acts on the chromophore, a follicle protein, which widens the range of skin tones that can be treated safely. Results on very fair, red, grey or white hair are less predictable, because there is little pigment for the light to target, and we will be honest with you about what to expect at your consultation.

How many sessions will I need?

Hair grows in cycles and only actively growing hairs respond, so a course is always needed. Most people need 6-10 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, and many find they want occasional maintenance sessions afterwards. This is hair reduction rather than permanent removal: the aim is a significant, long-lasting reduction in hair growth, not a guarantee that no hair will ever return.

Before your treatment

Shave the area 24 hours before your appointment. Do not wax, pluck or use epilation for at least four weeks beforehand, as the root needs to be present. Avoid sun exposure, sunbeds and fake tan for two weeks before and after treatment. Let us know about any medication you take, as some medicines increase light sensitivity. A patch test is required before your first treatment.

Afterwards

Some redness and a warm, sunburn-like sensation in the treated area is normal and usually settles within a few hours, though it can last a day or two. Avoid heat treatments, saunas, hot baths, swimming pools and vigorous exercise for 24 hours, and apply a broad-spectrum SPF to any exposed treated skin.

Who it is not suitable for

Light-based hair reduction is not suitable during pregnancy, over tattoos or permanent makeup, on recently tanned skin, or where you are taking photosensitising medication such as certain antibiotics or roaccutane. Some skin conditions and medical histories also need consideration. Your therapist will go through a full consultation and patch test with you before any treatment goes ahead.