Tag Archives: FAQs

How Sherlase Clinic became one of the First Laser Hair Removal Destinations in the GTA

How did Sherlase Clinic get its start, offering Laser Hair Removal services?
Nearly two decades ago, Sherlase Owner, Sheri, was working as an electrolysis professional and caught wind of a new treatment called “laser hair removal”. She decided to do some research to educate herself on this new, up-and-coming treatment that piqued her interest. Around this time – by pure luck – she met someone who happened to be in the industry of the technology used to do laser hair removal. She had a hunch this treatment would grow in popularity and that it would help many of her clients, so she took the leap of faith.

How has laser hair removal technology evolved over the years? How does Sherlase stay on top?
Decades ago, before Sherlase Clinic introduced laser hair removal to the Markham area, the most innovative way to remove hair was electrolysis. There were other methods that are still around today – such as waxing, threading, shaving and depilatory creams – but these require more frequent maintenance.

When laser hair removal technology was new, the lasers could only be used on fairer skin tones because of the extreme difficulty in targeting hair follicles in deeper tones. There used to be gels involved that conducted the laser’s heatwaves; this intensified the temperature, resulting in a far less tolerable experience than you’d feel undergoing laser hair removal today. Back then, this treatment wasn’t done with success on patients with deeper complexions. The risk of burning due to sensitivity of the laser’s heat was just too great.

Thankfully, laser hair removal technology has improved leaps and bounds year after year. Today, the machines here at Sherlase Clinic allow us to work safely and effectively with patients of all skin tones. There is no gel involved, so the process is less messy. To combat the laser’s heat, our modern machines spray cryo with each zap of the laser, helping cool the treated area immediately. This makes the process much more tolerable.

(Some insight on the release of heat energy into the skin that you may find interesting: the quicker the zap, the deeper the heatwave penetrates, resulting in a more “intense” feeling. The longer the zap, the shallower the heatwave travels, resulting in a more comfortable feeling. Laser hair removal intensity used depends on skin tone.)

At Sherlase Clinic, we strive to stay current with all things laser hair removal by continuously updating our training in techniques and technologies, and staying educated about changes in the industry. We consistently train to ensure we don’t miss a thing. Providing our patients with the very best service – and maintaining our standing as one of top destinations for laser hair removal – are our top priorities.

Have you noticed any changes or trends in laser hair removal clients over the years?
We see more men coming in for laser hair removal than we used to. The majority of them want to treat their backs and chests. Brazilians have also become very common. Almost all female patients that we used to see for intimate laser hair removal treated only the bikini line. Over the last few years, we’ve also experienced an influx in women with hormonal issues visiting us to treat their chins and upper lips. Nowadays it is pretty trendy to be fairly hairless, so we see quite a bit of requests for hair removal on the arms, as well.

Even though laser hair removal has been mainstream for a while now, there are still a few points of confusion or concern that we encounter. We ask clients to shave the area being treated before they come in. For women who are getting their upper lip, face or chin lasered, they worry that this will make the hair grow back fast and furiously. This is not the case.
Another example: some people don’t have laser hair removal done when they’re younger because they plan to take care of it when they’re older; however, what they don’t know is that once the hair is grey/white, it cannot be removed via laser. The machine can only target what it can see – dark hairs.

What are some common misconceptions you have heard about laser hair removal?
Many people are under the impression that hair will be totally, and permanently, gone after a series of, let’s say, six treatments. This is not the case. Typically, hair growth can be reduced by 75-85%, but this usually requires at least a dozen treatments, spread weeks apart. Even after that result is reached, treatments are needed to maintain.

How do you help clients manage their expectations about laser hair removal and how it may benefit them?
Once the client’s goal is reached, it is imperative that the client is consistent with maintenance. We are very transparent about what is required for optimal long-term results. Short term, we stress the importance of avoiding waxing, threading, tweezing and electrolysis, on the treated area in between laser appointments. This can disrupt progress.

Benefits wise, laser hair removal is obviously a great choice for those looking for silky, hairless skin. Unlike shaving, the hair won’t reappear within a couple short days. A benefit people may not be aware of is that, unlike other hair removal methods, laser hair removal eliminates ingrown hair/folliculitis.

What sets Sherlase Clinic apart from others in the area who offer laser hair removal?
We are not estheticians in a beauty salon. Sherlase Clinic is a medical skin clinic, staffed my trained medical estheticians. We also have an in-house doctor and nurse. We have been experts in laser hair removal for nearly two decades – we were the first to offer this treatment in Markham and the surrounding area.

Laser Treatments FAQs

Looking for smooth, hairless legs? Want to minimize the appearance of spider veins? Perhaps you’d like to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, without the use of Botox or dermal fillers. If this sounds like you and your 2019 esthetics or self-care goals, read on to get the fast facts about the variety of laser treatments we offer here at Sherlase Clinic.

1. What sorts of outcomes or benefits can I expect from laser skin treatments?
We offer several laser treatments, each using different technologies that work to achieve a variety of esthetic goals on the face and areas of the body. Each benefit/outcome is dependent on the treatment you choose and your unique characteristics, but generally speaking, laser treatments can be used to:

• Reduce/remove hair
• Minimize the appearance of spider veins
• Correct discolouration, such as sun spots
• Resurface the skin; improve texture, minimize and/or reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Restore vitality and elasticity to the look and feel of skin
• Refresh the complexion, supporting a more youthful, luminous appearance
• Stimulate your body’s own collagen production, helping to smooth out the skin

2. Which laser treatments does Sherlase Clinic offer?
We proudly offer an array of diverse laser skin treatments. Read on to learn more about each treatment.

Laser Hair Removal
Achieve silky smooth skin. Nd:YAG and elōs™ technologies gently remove hair of many colours and types from all skin tones. Sherlase Clinic was the first to bring medical grade, FDA approved laser hair removal machines to the Greater Toronto Area in 2000. Learn more.

Laser Vein Treatment
An effective and safe way to reduce spider veins on the legs, face (around the nose and on the cheeks; including Cherry Angiomas), or anywhere on the body. Learn more.

Photo-Rejuvenation
A non-invasive procedure using intense pulsated light to target and correct discolouration, such as sun damage or Rosacea. Can be used to treat many areas, including the face, neck, and hands. Learn more.

ReFirme™ Skin Tightening
Combined energies work to comfortably achieve noticeably lifted, smoother, and more toned skin. No downtime required. Learn more.

Matrix RF™ Skin Treatment
Suitable for all skin tones, this cutting edge procedure works to resurface the skin by effectively treating wrinkles, reducing discolouration and textural irregularities, and accelerating your skin’s natural healing processes. Learn more.

Matrix IR™ Fractional Wrinkle Treatment
This procedure involves the gentle, targeted heating of connective tissue. The result? Collagen stimulation that works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and give your skin a more smooth look and elastic feel. Learn more.

Triniti Laser Skin Series
A non-surgical, three-in-one treatment to achieve a more youthful, glowing complexion. A combination of Photo-Rejuvenation, ReFirme™, and Matrix IR™. Learn more.

3. How can I prepare before my appointment?
Though there are similarities in how to prepare for most laser treatments, there will be slight differences depending on the treatment and the area being treated. Across the board, it is advisable to limit sun exposure and the use of topical skin products that darken your skin tone (e.g., spray tans and gradual bronzing lotions) in the weeks leading up to your visit. You will also want to avoid the use of blood-thinning or anti-inflammatory medications in the days immediately before your appointment.

The day of your appointment, ensure the area being treated with laser is cleansed, and free of cosmetics, skincare products, deodorant, and fragrance.

Below we cover some additional preparation guidelines specific to different types of laser treatments.

Laser Hair Removal
Avoid other hair removal methods (e.g., waxing, sugaring, plucking and electrolysis) for approximately one month before your appointment. It is generally advisable to shave the area that will be treated 24-48 hours ahead of your appointment; however, this may vary and details will be provided to you during your consultation. If you are treating an area on your body, arrive to your appointment wearing loose fitting clothing so that you are comfortable post-procedure.

Laser Vein Treatment
Preparation tips are similar to those outline above under Laser Hair Removal. If you are having Laser Vein Treatment done on your face, we will provide you with specifics relating to if, and how, you should remove hair prior to your appointment.

Laser Skin Treatments
In addition to the general preparation tips above, we may advise that you cease using certain topical products (e.g., Retin-A) in the weeks leading up to your appointment.

Regardless of the laser procedure you choose, know that areas treated with laser are sensitive to the sun’s rays. After your appointment, take care to diligently use broad spectrum sunscreen and limit sun exposure.

4. Will there be any downtime, post-procedure?
Downtime is dependent on the laser treatment you choose and your unique characteristics. Some treatments are more intensive than others. For example, Photo-Rejuvenation and Matrix IR™ Laser Fractional Wrinkle Treatment are so gentle that they can be performed during your lunch hour, with no downtime, whereas the Matrix RF™ Skin Treatment is our most aggressive laser therapy, requiring approximately 2-4 days downtime.

During your consultation, we will inform you about the general downtime associated with the laser procedure you are considering so that you may take this into consideration when scheduling your appointment.

5. Does laser skin treatment hurt?
Though pain is subjective, most patients tolerate laser treatments extremely well.

6. Will I see results after one treatment?
Certain laser therapies will offer visible results with just one appointment, such as our ReFirme™ Skin Tightening treatment; however best results for laser treatments are always seen with multiple appointments, spaced weeks apart.

We will work closely with you to develop a custom treatment plan based on your unique characteristics and goals, and provide our recommendation on the total number of treatments needed.

7. How can I decide which laser skin treatment is right for me?
Each laser treatment offers its own benefits. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Our team of experts will work with you to find the right laser therapy solution for your unique characteristics and goals.

Have you done laser treatments here at Sherlase Clinic? We’d love to hear about your experience! Drop us a line on Facebook or Instagram, or pop over to Google Review to share a review.

If you haven’t tried laser treatments before, but are considering it, and have a question we didn’t answer here, please email us at info@sherlaseclinic.com! We’re more than happy to help.

Dermal Fillers FAQ

Here at Sherlase Clinic, we have watched injectable fillers skyrocket in popularity over the last few years. With so many advantages over surgical solutions, it’s easy to understand why.

We are committed to sharing our knowledge and expertise with you whenever we can, so that you are better able to make informed decisions about how to proceed with your aesthetics. This blog post was created in that spirit and we hope you find it helpful!

1. What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers are injectable gels made from hyaluronic acid, a sugar found naturally in your body. There are many fillers on the market, each with differing properties. At Sherlase Clinic, we offer a variety of hyaluronic acid fillers, including Juvederm, Teosyal, Stylage and Restylane.

2. How do dermal fillers work?
Fillers fill the soft tissue beneath your skin’s surface, resulting in an outwardly visible reduction of fine lines and deep wrinkles, and enhanced plumpness. Because fillers are hydrophilic – meaning they attract water – it’s like moisturizing your skin from the inside out.

Hyaluronic acid injections have also been shown to stimulate collagen production.

3. How can dermal fillers help me achieve my aesthetic goals?
Injectable fillers can be used in many ways to restore the skin’s vitality or freshen up your appearance. At Sherlase Clinic, our clients frequently choose fillers in order to soften fine lines around the mouth and nose, plump lips, restore lost fullness to cheeks, chin or temples, fill hollows and deep wrinkles, and lift sagging skin.

4. How can I decide which filler is right for me?
Due to the different properties of each filler, Dr. Jennifer Rotstein will choose the filler that is best suited to your individual characteristics, goals, and the area being treated.

At Sherlase Clinic, all fillers are sold by the vial. There is no difference in price between the fillers we offer. Why do we do this? Because we don’t want patients choosing fillers based on price. It is important that Dr. Rotstein uses the right filler for each unique patient and his or her concern.

5. How long do fillers last?
Typically, dermal fillers last between 6 months and 2 years, depending on the filler used, the individual characteristics of the patient, and the area treated.

6. It is my first time getting fillers. What can I expect from Sherlase Clinic?
Pre-appointment
Every filler patient experience begins with a consultation with Dr. Rotstein. (Initial consultations are always complimentary and can be booked by clicking here.) Dr. Rotstein will sit down with you in order to better understand your aesthetic goals and answer any questions you may have. This is the stage during which a treatment plan will be created for you, based on your needs, goals, and the most realistic way to achieve the best possible results while maintaining a natural look. The purpose of this consultation is for Dr. Rotstein to present you with all the information you need, in as much detail as possible – including different treatment options and potential side effects – so you are better equipped to make an informed decision before proceeding with treatment.

Avoiding blood thinners – including alcohol, Advil, aspirin, green tea, and fish oil/omegas – may be advisable 7-10 days before the date of your actual dermal filler procedure. We recommend this in an effort to minimize possible post-treatment bruising. Please also note that Dr. Rotstein will not administer injections if you have had an infection (e.g., cold) or dental work done within two weeks prior to your appointment, or plan to have dental work done within four weeks following your appointment.

During the appointment
Depending on the area Dr. Rotstein treats, your appointment will take 20 minutes to an hour.

The dermal fillers are blended with anaesthetic so the injected area numbs quite quickly. Though pain is subjective, most patients tolerate the procedure extremely well.

Post-appointment
You will see a difference right away. Results will continue to improve over time, with best results seen at 4-6 weeks, as the filler integrates completely with the skin and has maximal lifting effect.

There is always the potential for bruising any time the skin is pierced with a needle. Certain areas, such as around the mouth, are more prone to bruising. Should bruising occur, it may last anywhere from a few days to a couple weeks (though this is uncommon). Bruising varies patient by patient and is impossible to predict. Consider the upcoming events in your personal schedule and the potential for post-injection bruising when choosing the date to book your procedure.

7. How much filler will Sherlase Clinic use during my treatment?
The amount of filler needed will be based on your aesthetic goals. Each vial of filler contains only 1ml of liquid.

As an example, if you are looking to really build volume in your lips, this will typically require one vial, with touch ups every 3-6 months. If you are simply looking to rejuvenate your lips, one vial per year is the approximate amount of filler required. Everyone is different so these estimates may vary.

8. What are the benefits of opting for fillers over surgery?
There are many advantages to choosing injectable fillers over surgery. These include: less downtime, reversibility, no general anaesthesia, and less risk of service/permanent adverse effects.

9. I’m concerned everyone will notice that I’ve had fillers done. Should I be?
There is a common misconception that dermal fillers make people look puffy or so different that their friends and family will notice they’ve had the treatment done. When administered properly and in the appropriate amounts, your face will not be radically changed – you will simply look like a more refreshed version of yourself.

10. Who should avoid getting fillers?
If you are allergic to dermal fillers, you should not get them. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those with autoimmune disease, should also avoid getting fillers.

In general, if you are aged 18 or older and in good health, you are a suitable candidate for injectable fillers.

11. What should I look for in a clinic or doctor when deciding where to go to get fillers?
It’s important to thoroughly research clinics and doctors before making a decision. Read as many reviews as you can find to gain a deeper, truer sense of the doctor and/or clinic’s reputation, experience, level of expertise and satisfaction level of real clients. Also, be sure to look for before and after images.

At Sherlase Clinic, Dr. Rotstein administers all filler injections. She is a family doctor by training, but exclusively practises cosmetic medicine and has done so for almost thirteen years.

Do you have questions about injectable fillers that we haven’t answered here? Reach out to us on Facebook or Instagram!