Laser Hair Removal

A. Most patients feel a light stinging sensation when the laser pulses are activated to treat areas of unwanted hair. The level of discomfort varies from person to person and can be controlled with a topical anesthetic if necessary. Often, the sensation during treatment is compared to a rubber band snap against the skin. Discomfort following treatment is minimal.

A. Laser hair removal is also more comfortable and, in many cases, more effective than electrolysis, a procedure that involves shocking each hair follicle one by one with a tiny needle. Also, there is a slight risk of scarring following electrolysis treatments, which laser hair removal avoids.

A. Most of our patients enjoy a quick recovery with minimal discomfort following their laser hair removal treatments, although experiences vary. The skin, particularly around the hair follicles, may be red and irritated for a brief period after treatment, but any minor discomfort should not keep you from carrying on with your day’s activities. Moisturizers can be used to soothe treated skin if needed.

As the treatment area recovers, it is important not to shave or pluck hairs, and avoid any cosmetic products that will overly dry the skin. In addition, you should avoid exposure to sunlight and use a sunscreen rated at SPF 30 or higher if you are planning to be outdoors.

A. Laser hair removal achieves long-lasting hair reduction, not total elimination of all hair at a treatment site. The degree of hair removal varies from patient to patient. Over the long term, you should be able to achieve a 75% to 85% reduction in the amount of unwanted hair.1

Our hair removal laser is effective on almost all skin types. Treatment works best when a patient’s skin is lighter than the hair being treated, so people with light blonde, red, or gray hair may see more limited results than those with very light skin and very dark hair. For a personal assessment of what this treatment can achieve for you, request a spa consultation online or call us today.