Question
After months of research I went for my first treatment today. I ended up going with Gentlelase. Doing an extended bikini and underarms. I am mostly a type III (some IV) Used EMLA thoroughly (test spot killed without it). Drank a ton of water, didn't have any coffee (as instructed on prior chains). Took a couple of advils and had a nice breakfast.
I think I pretty much tried everything I could to make it as painless as I could.
It was painful, but it could be handled. She used 18 on the underarm area and most of the bikini areas and 16 and even 14 on a couple of spots (inner part) where the skin was a little darker. She was shocked that I had all these questions about the levels she was using. She said most clients have no idea (hm.............)
Since this forum helped me so much with my research, I thought I would return the favor and keep you posted with the results.

Answer
After months of research I went for my first treatment today. I ended up going with Gentlelase. Doing an extended bikini and underarms. I am mostly a type III (some IV) Used EMLA thoroughly (test spot killed without it). Drank a ton of water, didn't have any coffee (as instructed on prior chains). Took a couple of advils and had a nice breakfast.
I think I pretty much tried everything I could to make it as painless as I could.
It was painful, but it could be handled. She used 18 on the underarm area and most of the bikini areas and 16 and even 14 on a couple of spots (inner part) where the skin was a little darker. She was shocked that I had all these questions about the levels she was using. She said most clients have no idea (hm.............)
Since this forum helped me so much with my research, I thought I would return the favor and keep you posted with the results.

Answer
thanks! keep us posted. yes, unfortunately most people don't question the techs etc on settings as they don't do enough research to know what they should be. which is technically how it should be, right? we don't question doctors when we go in for treatments. but unfortunately, this industry is so unknown and there are so many ppl out there that are operating laser that don't knwo what they're doing or how to achieve the absolute best results, that I think everyone should be doing it. good luck.