Laser Hair Removal Faq

Laser hair removal is a very common aesthetic procedure. Unlike shaving, tweezing, or depilatory creams and solutions, lasers remove hair permanently. An intense beam of light from the laser penetrates the hair follicle. Laser hair removal is usually more effective with dark hair on light skin (dark skin tends to absorb the light beam and make it less effective), but newer technologies have also made it more effective in people of color

Lasers emit a concentrated, intense beam of light. They work best on dark hair as the pigment absorbs the light, which damages the hair follicle. When the patient’s skin is light, it also helps reflect the light into the darker hair, which makes it more effective; dark skin absorbs the light. The hair in the damaged follicle will be shed in one to three weeks and will not regrow. Laser hair removal is effective only if applied at the right point in the hair growth cycle.

Hair slated for removal will be trimmed short. A special gel or cooling device is applied to protect the skin, and eye protection is necessary for the patient’s eyes. After a test treatment to adjust the laser to the patient’s skin color and hair color, thickness, and location of the hair, the doctor or nurse will direct the laser light from one spot to another to remove the hair. Ice packs and anti-inflammatory creams can be applied to relieve any discomfort.

Each patient is an individual, and factors like hair color, skin color, hair thickness and location all affect the need for treatments. The hair growth cycle also makes a difference, as does the patient’s hormonal balance; for example, a condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome in women can affect hair growth. In most cases, a minimum of three treatments is necessary. If hair regrowth occurs, additional treatments may be needed at a later date.