Everything you need to know about laser hair removal and facials at Luma Skin NYC.
Updated June 2026
This wording is required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Laser technology — including the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus we use — is officially cleared by the FDA as a "permanent hair reduction" device, not "permanent hair removal."
Here is what that actually means in practice:
What we achieve: After a complete series of 6–8 sessions, most clients see 80–90% permanent reduction in active hair. The hair that does grow back is significantly finer, lighter in color, and grows more slowly — often barely visible.
What we cannot promise: A guarantee of 100% lifelong elimination of every single hair. Hormonal shifts (pregnancy, menopause, PCOS, thyroid conditions), certain medications, and the natural hair-growth cycle can reactivate dormant follicles years later. That is why annual touch-up sessions are sometimes recommended.
Bottom line: "Reduction" is the accurate, FDA-approved term. The everyday result feels permanent for the vast majority of our clients — but legally and medically, we are not allowed to call it "removal." Any clinic that promises "100% permanent removal" is making a claim the FDA does not allow.
Most clients describe it as barely noticeable. The Candela GentleMax Pro Plus has a built-in Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) that sprays cryogen onto the skin a millisecond before each pulse — eliminating the heat sensation almost entirely.
Most clients are surprised by how comfortable the treatment is compared to waxing or threading.
Most clients achieve 80–90% permanent hair reduction in 6–8 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Hair grows in cycles, so multiple sessions are needed to target all active follicles at the right stage of growth.
We'll create a personalised treatment plan during your consultation based on your hair type, area, and skin tone.
Yes — the Candela GentleMax Pro Plus is a dual-wavelength system (755nm Alexandrite + 1064nm Nd:YAG), which makes it safe and highly effective for all skin types, including darker complexions (Fitzpatrick IV–VI).
This is one of the key reasons top clinics worldwide choose this laser. Your specialist will select the optimal wavelength for your skin during consultation.
Session length depends on the area:
Underarms — approx. 15 min · Brazilian — approx. 20 min · Half legs — approx. 30 min · Full legs — approx. 45 min · Full body — approx. 90 min.
Shave the treatment area 24 hours before your appointment. Avoid sun exposure, tanning (including self-tanner), and waxing or plucking for at least 2 weeks prior. Come with clean, product-free skin.
We'll walk you through all prep and aftercare during your first consultation.
Absolutely. The Nd:YAG 1064nm wavelength on the GentleMax Pro Plus is specifically designed for darker skin tones. It bypasses the melanin in the skin surface and targets the hair follicle directly — making it both safe and effective for Fitzpatrick types IV through VI.
We treat virtually any area on the body: face (upper lip, chin, sideburns), underarms, Brazilian/bikini, lower legs, full legs, half arms, full arms, back, chest, stomach, and full body packages.
No downtime at all. Most clients return to their regular schedule immediately. You may notice mild redness or a slight sunburn sensation for a few hours after treatment — this is completely normal and fades quickly.
Avoid direct sun exposure and hot showers for 24–48 hours post-session.
Simply book your first appointment through our Vagaro booking page — the discount is automatically applied to any area you choose for your first visit. No codes or vouchers needed. Spots are limited, so book early!
It depends on your skin concern. For oily or breakout-prone skin we recommend the Deep Pore Cleansing Facial. For anti-aging and firmness, the Luxe Lift Facial is our top pick. For an instant glow before an event, try Oxygen Therapy. For relaxation and puffiness, the Face Massage works beautifully.
Not sure? Book a consultation and our esthetician will guide you.
For best results, most clients book once every 4–6 weeks — this aligns with the skin's natural renewal cycle. If you're targeting a specific concern like acne or hyperpigmentation, more frequent sessions may be recommended initially.
Yes. All our facials can be adapted for sensitive skin types. We use professional-grade, fragrance-free formulas and adjust pressure and products based on your skin's needs. Let your esthetician know about any sensitivities or allergies before your appointment.
Most of our facial treatments are 60 minutes. Please arrive a few minutes early to complete a brief skin intake form.
We typically recommend spacing them out — laser hair removal and facial treatments are best performed on separate days to give your skin time to settle. Your esthetician will help you schedule them for optimal results.
Come with a clean face — remove makeup before arriving if possible. Avoid strong exfoliants or retinol for 48 hours before your appointment. Let your esthetician know if you're currently using any prescription skincare.
All appointments are booked through our Vagaro page — click the "Book Now" button at the top of this page. You can browse available times and select your treatment online in under 2 minutes.
We're located at 304 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10001 — in Midtown Manhattan, steps from Penn Station and the B/D/F/M/N/Q/R lines.
Yes — your first laser session includes a complimentary skin consultation and test patch. Our specialists will assess your hair type, skin tone, and treatment goals before starting.
We ask for at least 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee. You can manage your appointment directly through your Vagaro booking confirmation.
We operate by appointment only to ensure each client gets dedicated, private treatment time. Same-day bookings are often available — check our Vagaro page for real-time availability.
Call us or book a free consultation — we'll answer everything in person.