I attempted to use this provider for six (axillary) laser hair removal treatments in response to a Living Social promo earlier this year. I have not used their other services which seem to be very good. Past reviewers are correct, they charge a ‘medical consult’ fee. When I was there the form to be signed was a checklist regarding the client’s perception of their own skin type. This is done to appear in compliance with State law which regulates operation of medical devices. The lobby was bustling with new clients in response to the promo and an unidentified male (from “Corporate”) was circulating the room collecting the ‘medical consult’ forms. The spa may have a professional affiliation with a doctor, but there was no actual exam by a dermatologist.
Laser treatments were administered without a lidocaine -type topical anesthetic. What was claimed to be an aloe vera gel was applied immediately before treatment. The laser pulses were almost unnoticeable unlike other effective treatments I’ve had with lidocaine-based anesthetics. Based on my observation, a low pulse setting was used. Not surprisingly, most if not all of the dark, non-graying hair in the treated areas returned. I also requested specific areas be focused on due to areas starting to gray which would not respond to the laser. She refused to do so, stating she had to do the 'entire' area. This was suspect as unpigmented hair follicles respond poorly to laser treatment.
After each treatment the front desk employee added an exorbitant 'tip' (approx. 10% of the total package fee) to the 3 minute session (not disclosed in the Living Social promo), and tried to charge duplicate tax on the full cost of the package. Note that the tax on packages was collected, along with the ‘medical’ fee, prior to the initial treatment.
Amber Skin Spa has the equipment to perform effective laser hair removal treatments - when they elect to do so. Use caution and stay alert if you decide to use this facility.
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