Laser & Electrolysis Studio

Laser & Electrolysis Studio was founded in 1971 by Cheryl Piquard. Ownership passed to Sascha Asghari in 2017, and the studio continues to offer both laser hair removal and electrolysis from its Balcones Drive location in Austin.

According to the studio, its goal is hair removal that is safe and effective for every skin type, delivered with inclusivity, professionalism and individual attention. The studio describes itself as a respectful, affirming space for everyone and says it supports the LGBTQIA+ community. It reports having served thousands of transgender and gender-diverse clients, and alongside hair removal it provides treatment plans for gender-affirming procedures, including GRS, FFS and phalloplasty, that are directed by a physician.

Clients can book a free consultation to talk through whether laser or electrolysis suits them. Laser treats a whole area in one session and is the studio's choice for dark hair and larger areas. It uses an Alexandrite laser that targets melanin in the skin and a Yag laser that targets the blood supply to the follicle, and the Yag is used on all skin types. The studio notes that laser is less effective on red, white and blonde hair, so test spots are used for lighter hair, and that laser is not painless, with clients often comparing the feeling to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Electrolysis treats one follicle at a time with a fine sterile probe and a small electrical current. It works on all skin types and hair colors, and each program is tailored to the client, since past hair removal methods can affect how many treatments are needed. The two methods can be combined, with laser used first on dark hairs and electrolysis used for stubborn or lighter ones.

Before laser, clients avoid waxing, tweezing and electrolysis for three weeks. For 48 hours before and after, they avoid retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids and glycolic acid products. Sun exposure and tanning beds are avoided during sessions, and SPF 30 or higher is used on treated skin for seven days afterward. Electrolysis works best on hair that is visible and actively growing, so clients are asked to allow three to five days of growth before a session. Aftercare for both methods includes avoiding sun and leaving the treated area undisturbed. A histamine reaction is described as rare and may be treated with antihistamines.

The studio says it is in-network with VA insurance and that hair removal is fully covered for veterans, and it says it is the second business in Texas to offer VA-covered hair removal. According to its FAQ, laser reduces hair by 75 to 90 percent and does not destroy every hair, and the FDA approves laser hair removal for long-term hair reduction. The FAQ also describes electrolysis as an FDA approved permanent method that requires a series of treatments. Electrolysis cannot be performed on clients with a pacemaker, and pregnancy, skin lesions, infections and contagious skin disorders are listed as contraindications.

Focused on safe, effective hair removal for all skin types, with inclusivity, professionalism and personalized care at the center of its work.