Laser hair removal is a non-invasive method for permanently reducing unwanted facial or body hair using a gold standard diode.
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser produces a beam of highly concentrated light. This light beam passes through the skin and targets dark pigment called melanin. When the beam hits the melanin in the follicle, the intense heat destroys the hair follicle. The end result is permanent hair reduction.
What are the advantages of this procedure?
Unlike waxing, after your sessions are complete you should be virtually hair-free. Hair that does grow back will be lighter and thinner in texture.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments will vary since everyone’s hair grows differently depending on age, weight, metabolism, hormones, ethnicity, medications, and other factors. Interestingly, not all hairs are growing at the same time. Hair is in one of three distinct phases of development which are anagen (active), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting). The laser only works on follicles in the active growth phase. On average it takes a series of 4 to 6 treatments spaced 4 to 12 weeks apart to guarantee permanent hair reduction.
Is this treatment painful?
Most clients tolerate the procedure well. Some clients feel a slight burning or stinging sensation as the laser pulse is delivered. A topical anesthetic cream can be applied one hour prior to treatment on any area of the skin. In addition, our laser systems have a powerful skin cooling device incorporated into the handpiece. Cold compresses or soothing gels can also be applied after treatment.
What do I need to do to prepare for my laser treatment?
· You must be off any medications that cause photosensitivity. Call our office and we will be able to advise you how long you need to be off of a certain medication before treatment.
· Do not use electrolysis, pluck, bleach, or wax hair 3 weeks prior to your treatment.
· Do not take Accutane (Isotretinoin) 6 months prior to treatment.
· Do not use Retin-A or any Retinol products one week before treatments.
· Shave area the morning of treatment.
· Make-up, perfume, lotion, powder, or deodorant should not be worn to treatment.
· Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for 3 weeks prior to your treatment.
· If you have a history of Herpes Simplex (cold sores) it is recommended you start Valtrex the day before treatment. Please call the office for a prescription.
What can I expect after treatment?
Immediately following the laser treatment, you may notice some minor redness, swelling, or tenderness. It’s OK! These side effects are minor and are totally normal. During the next few weeks, it may appear that you have new hair growth, but it is actually the shedding of the dead hair. After the hair is shed you should be virtually hair-free until the next cycle of hair growth.
Is it permanent?
Yes, 90% of hair follicles destroyed by the laser will never return. Any hair follicles not completely destroyed by laser will grow back lighter and finer in texture. Blonde, gray, or red hair cannot be destroyed by laser.
