What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a nonsurgical technique for reducing hair growth. Unlike waxing and shaving, it is semi-permanent. Unlike other hair removal methods, it is quick; can be performed on large areas of the body; and does not cause razor bumps, ingrown hairs or skin breakouts.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal directs highly concentrated light at the pigment in the hair shaft inside each hair follicle. This generates heat that damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth.
Before the procedure, a numbing cream can be applied. You and your doctor will both wear protective eyewear during the procedure. The skin on the area being treated will be pulled taut while the laser device is passed over the area. It usually takes about 10 minutes to treat the face or bikini area; legs and larger areas take longer.
Which Areas of the Body are Best for Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is suitable for any area of the face or body where you have unwanted hair. These are some of the most popular areas we treat:
- Back
- Bikini line
- Chest
- Face, especially the upper lip, chin and sideburns
- Neck
- Shoulders
- Underarms
How Soon Will You See Results With Laser Hair Removal?
You will see results immediately following treatment. Because hair grows in cycles, not all follicles will be active when you receive your first treatment. Therefore most patients need between four and six treatments spaced approximately a month apart to achieve the best results.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Hair Removal
Most patients describe discomfort similar to a mild sunburn, the sensation of a rubber band being snapped against the skin or small pinpricks.
After laser hair removal, patients are typically hair-free for several months or longer. When hair does regrow, the hair is less coarse and lighter in color. Periodic maintenance treatments might be needed if hair regrows
Because laser hair removal works by transmitting light into the pigment (color) in each hair shaft, people with gray or white hair might not have enough pigment for the treatment to be effective.
IPL therapy for hair removal is significantly less effective than laser treatment, and requires many more treatments.
At-home devices are less powerful than in-office laser hair removal equipment, so you may still need to shave, wax or pluck. At-home devices can also potentially burn you, so they must be used with caution.
