Jane E.
Yelp
I found Beam through its impeccable Yelp ratings, and I'm back here to pile on to the existing load of rave reviews. It is everything you hope for in a high-end laser hair removal clinic: the best state-of-the art laser (Candela GentleMax), the cleanliness of a well-run medical office combined with the relaxing girly ambience of a spa, extremely knowledgeable and skilled staff, and fair and consistent pricing. They don't do Groupons or special promos other than the 6-pack promotional price. Laser is not a cheap, but it works -- which is why people pay more for the best machines, and why you should be wary of deals that are too-good-to-be-true.
More than anything other factor, you want to get treated with the best quality laser on the market, because a top-quality machine will mitigate any other variables (such as technician training, for example) and get you more consistent, long-lasting results. The Candela GentleMax is one of the best lasers out there, featuring both the Alexandrite and the Nd:Yag wavelengths (the Alexandrite is best for fair/medium skin, the Nd:Yag for women of color).
It's worth it to buy the 6-pack of treatments, since you will need at least 4 sessions, and up to 6 (or more) if your hair/skin types are stubborn. But you can also buy sessions individually and see how many you need. The best candidates have fair skin with very dark coarse hair, but the laser technology has improved drastically over the past few years, and even women with darker skintones can see great results with the Nd:Yag.
At the free consultation (where there isn't upselling or sales pressure), you get a free zap on a test patch, to see how you'll respond to the treatment. Based on my free zap, I went back for the full Kit & Caboodle. My technician, Amanda, is the sweetest, most knowledgeable person: you feel comfortable while getting zapped.
I did research on the best lasers and procedures beforehand, comparing prices and salons in New York, and Beam came out on top. I started my laser sessions in May 2012, and I have had INCREDIBLE results as of December, about 4-5 sessions in (note: I have fair skin, dark Asian hair, so I was an ideal candidate for laser removal). By "incredible results," I mean I have not shaved at all in 2 months, which means going to yoga or anything requiring skin exposure no longer requires pre-planning. It is the most liberating change in my life.
Note on pain: Laser hair removal does hurt, and more than just a "rubber band snap" in my opinion. But it's less far painful than a Brazilian wax! I think the pain on underarms is mild. The pain in the bikini area is significantly greater since there is less adipose tissue there to absorb the laser's heat. To counteract this, you can get a Rx from your dermatologist for a topical lidocaine cream. I apply it sparingly to the area to be zapped (it is toxic if absorbed through skin in large doses) about 30 minutes before the laser session. The lidocaine needs to be removed from skin with a cleansing pad, right before the laser is used. Be sure to talk to your technician to confirm this is appropriate for you, and let her know if you are using lidocaine so it can be cleansed off properly.