LASER HAIR REMOVAL

How does laser hair removal work?   Our laser delivers pulses of light energy to destroy actively growing hair follicles while sparing the surrounding skin.  Not all hairs are actively growing at the same time however.  Because hairs will enter this active growth phase at different times, serial treatments (on average 4-6) are necessary to destroy all of the hair follicles in a given area.

Who can be treated?   Our laser allows treatment of virtually all skin tones.  The best results are obtained with dark hair.  Very light, white or grey hair does not respond as well.

What areas can be treated?  Our laser system can remove hair from virtually all parts of the body including the face, legs, arms, underarms, and back.  It can also be used in sensitive areas like the chest, nipples, and bikini line.

What do laser treatments feel like?  Our laser cools and soothes as it glides along the skin.  When the pulse of light is delivered, some patients experience a mild pinching or stinging sensation.  No local anesthesia or pain medication is typically required; however, we will provide a topical anesthetic when sensitive areas are treated.

How many treatments will I need?  Most areas require 4-6 treatments, but the number treatments you may require for optimal long-term benefits depends on various factors such as your hair’s thickness, the area treated, and your hair’s growth cycle.  Some patients are sufficiently pleased with the reduction in hair they achieve in two or three sessions and opt out of further treatments.  However, if a patient desires the maximum amount of hair removal, multiple treatments will be necessary.

What happens after the treatment?  Immediately following your treatment, the area may appear a bit red similar to a mild sunburn.  This will dissipate within a few hours.  Over the next few days and weeks, the destroyed hairs will be shed from the skin and any surviving follicles will enter the active growth phase, ready to be treated at your next appointment.

Are there any restrictions on my activity after treatment?  Following the treatment, you can return to your normal activities right away.  However, since some temporary redness may occur, you may want to plan your work or social engagements accordingly.  The use of sunscreen of SPF 30+ is recommended on any treated areas exposed to the sun.

What are the possible side effects?  Although patients experience few side effects, the most commonly noticed are temporary slight reddening and local swelling of the skin, similar to sunburn or razor burn.  These effects typically last for several hours or less.  In rare instances, blistering may occur.  Our doctors can provide complete information on the risks and benefits of treatment.

How does laser hair removal compare with other hair removal methods?  Shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams are all temporary methods which must be repeated on a frequent basis.  Electrolysis, while permanent, is a tedious and painful process that involves inserting a needle into each individual hair follicle and delivering an electrical charge to them one at a time, often requiring years of treatments at regular intervals.

How much does it cost? Patients have the option of paying by the treatment or purchasing an area package up front.  Visit our website frequently to view our monthly promotions.  Click here for more information on pricing.