Laser Hair Removal Specialist

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a nonsurgical cosmetic treatment that uses concentrated light beams to remove unwanted hair. It works by emitting light that gets absorbed by hair pigment, where light energy converts to heat and damages hair follicles.

This damage delays or prevents future hair growth and is a convenient alternative to waxing, plucking, and shaving.

Which areas does hair removal work on?

Laser hair removal reduces hair on nearly any area of your body where unwanted hair lurks, such as your:

• Chest
• Face
• Upper lip and chin
• Bikini area
• Neck
• Shoulders
• Back

Because laser hair removal may not result in permanent hair loss, periodic maintenance treatments might be necessary.

What types of lasers are used?

At Specialists in Dermatology, your dermatologist may use the following lasers for hair removal and other skin conditions:

Alexandrite laser

The alexandrite laser emits high energy light through an alexandrite crystal. The length of light determines how far into the skin the laser penetrates. In addition to hair removal, the alexandrite laser helps treat age spots, spider veins, and vascular birthmarks.

Yag laser

The Nd:YAG laser, or Yag for short, produces light beams that reach deep skin layers and target melanin at variable depths. In addition to hair removal, the Yag laser improves the appearance of spider veins, varicose veins, and vascular birthmarks. It also reduces wrinkles, pigmented lesions (such as freckles and brown age spots), and much more.

What should I expect during laser hair removal?

After a thorough consultation with your dermatologist, you arrive for a laser hair removal session. During treatment, your provider applies a hand-held laser to your skin that emits a beam of light into the affected area. The laser pulses, allowing hair to absorb light and produce heat.

You may feel a cooling sensation from the laser instrument to enhance comfort, and warm pinpricks from the laser’s heat. The amount of time laser hair removal lasts depends on the area treated. It might take just minutes for small areas on your face or over an hour for large areas, such as your back.

What happens after laser hair removal treatment?

Side effects may occur during the first few hours after laser hair removal and can include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Skin irritation

Apply ice to affected area as needed, and avoid sun exposure and tanning beds after and between scheduled treatments. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin. Treated hair might not fall out right away, but you can expect shedding over a period of several days or weeks.

Because a series of laser hair treatment is often needed to maximize results, your provider may recommend scheduling sessions every 6-8 weeks initially. Results from laser hair removal can last several months or years. If hair does eventually regrow, it might be finer or lighter in color.

Am I a good candidate for laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal works well on men and women with light skin and dark hair, but is appropriate for many skin types. Your provider lets you know if laser hair removal or another aesthetic treatment best matches your needs.

When you’re ready to get rid of embarrassing hair on your face or body, call Specialists in Dermatology today.