Laser Hair Removal can be a great option for anyone who has unwanted body hair. This no-downtime procedure uses laser energy to target and damage the hair follicle thus eliminating hair growth.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
It is a procedure that utilizes laser technology to remove unwanted hair safely and with minimal discomfort.
How does Laser Hair Removal work?
A concentrated beam of laser light is aimed at the unwanted hair. The light is absorbed by pigment in the hair which damages the follicle enough to stop future growth.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
There are many benefits to removing hair through laser hair removal including the following:
- Hair is precisely targeted
- The procedure is quick
- Results are permanent or long-lasting (for 90 percent of patients)
For many patients, laser hair removal is painless, although some patients experience minor discomfort, usually described as something like a rubber band’s snapping against the skin.
Candidates for Hair Laser Removal Treatments
While laser hair removal can be performed on virtually any skin color and hair type, hair color is the most important factor. The light emitted from the laser is attracted to the melanin, or dark pigment, in the hair follicle. This means that dark hair is treated most effectively. People with lighter skin can usually obtain faster clearance of dark hair.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment Areas
Laser Hair Removal can be done on any area of the body except the eye area. The areas most commonly treated include the bikini area, back/shoulders, underarms, face and legs.
How many Laser Hair Removal treatments are needed?
We recommend it will take 4-6 treatments to effectively treat an area, as lasers are only effective in removing hair when it is in the growth phase. Hair type and hair color can also influence the number of treatments needed.
Laser Hair Removal Procedure
First, the target area is numbed by a topical anesthetic. A handheld device that emits intense laser pulses is moved across the area, focusing on individual hair follicles. There are many different methods of laser hair removal, some treatments combine laser impulses with radiofrequency. The method for each patient is discussed in an appointment with our team.
Hair grows cyclically in three stages. The most effective time for laser hair removal is during the andogen (full-growth) stage. This is because the hair follicles are susceptible to laser energy. Since the stage of hair growth different with every patient, several laser treatments, usually from three to five, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, are necessary. To some extent, the length of treatment depends on the texture of the patient’s hair, and the location from which it is being removed.
Laser Hair Removal Recovery
After the treatment, some redness, soreness or swelling may occur. Usually, these side effects go away within a few days. Cold compresses or ice packs, moisturizers, and anti-inflammatory creams may help minimize discomfort. It is very important that sun exposure is avoided as much as possible forthe period of time after your treatment.
Does Laser Hair Removal hurt?*
It depends on the patient’s pain tolerance. Most patients feel a slight discomfort. Some compare it to a rubber band being popped on your skin.
How long do Laser Hair Removal results last?*
While “permanent” laser hair removal is a misnomer, after six treatments, you can expect a marked reduction in hair, which can be maintained by occasional touch up treatments.
Can I receive Laser Hair Removal on blonde or gray hair?
Laser hair removal targets the pigment in your hair. Light hair (blonde, gray, or white) is not targeted by the laser and cannot be treated.
Risks of Laser Hair Removal
The risks of laser hair removal are minimal and will be thoroughly discussed at your consultation.
Schedule a Consultation
Beaty Facial Plastic Surgery holds over 20 years experience and only provides a luxurious standard of patient care. Contact our office today to schedule your Laser Hair Removal consultation with our staff nurse.
*results may vary
Our providers specialize in non-surgical procedures, facial plastic surgery options and more.
If you would like to learn more about our services, please contact us to speak with one of our experts.
