HOW DOES LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORK?

The laser beam passes through the skin and is absorbed in the hair follicle residing underneath the skin’s surface. The laser energy destroys the follicle with the heat that it generates. Destroyed hairs are then either dissolved within the skin or rejected by the body within the next several days.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL BE NEEDED?

Laser treatment impairs the growth of hair follicles when they are in the growth (or anagen) cycle at the time of treatment. Unfortunately, not all hair follicles are at this stage at the same time. Therefore, for effective permanent hair removal, most people require approximately four treatments to achieve the desired results.

WHO WILL PERFORM THE PROCEDURE?

We have both male and female Board Certified Practitioners who perform the procedures. If you have a preference, please mention this when making your appointment.

HOW LONG WILL THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

This varies depending on the area of the body. Treatments on the back or legs can take up to one hour, while treatments of the underarms and bikini generally take 10 minutes. The upper lip and chin can be done in less than 5 minutes.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE-EFFECTS?

After the treatment you may experience a slight reddening of the skin similar to a sunburn that will resolve within a few hours to days. In certain instances (especially in patients with darker complexions) temporary pigment changes may occur, but will disappear within a month.

IS THE TREATMENT PAINFUL?

This is a common initial concern for many of our patients. Our laser uses a special cooling system that lowers the temperature of the skin at the treatment site before, during, and after laser exposure. Therefore, the treatment is generally not painful and is well tolerated. Some patients describe the treatment as a sensation like the snap of a rubber band and “much less painful than the waxing I used to subject myself to.” Topical anesthetic cream is an option for more sensitive areas.

ARE THE RESULTS PERMANENT?

Results vary depending on skin and hair type. Studies have shown that many patients can achieve permanent hair loss of up to 85-90% and remaining hair returns lighter and softer.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY TREATMENT?

For patient instructions click here.