Laser Hair Removal FAQ

If you're considering laser hair removal, consider this: the results can be great, but if you're treated with the wrong laser or if it's on the wrong setting, you won't get the maximum hair reduction (there's no such thing as total removal). Wherever you go—a derm, a med spa—be sure to ask questions before.

What patients should know

Treatments should be performed by or under the direct supervision of a physician or an experienced technician who has appropriate training and expertise.
In general, 6 or more treatments are required to achieve permanent hair growth reduction.
Darker hair responds best to laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is ideal for patients with dark hair and light skin, although nearly anyone with unwanted facial or body hair can benefit from this procedure.
Lighter-colored hair is least responsive, but topical medications can be used in an effort to increase effectiveness.
Patients seeking laser hair removal are advised to avoid tanning or sunless tanners and to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen for two weeks prior to and after the treatment.
Since hairs grow at different times, multiple treatments will be needed for all patients at intervals of four to six weeks. Virtually pain-free, laser hair removal safely and visibly reduces unwanted hair over a series of 6-9 treatments.

Expected results

The percentage of hairs removed per session varies by location on the body, with thinner-skinned areas (e.g., armpits and bikini area) generally responding better than thick-skinned areas (e.g., back and chin).
About 10 percent to 25 percent reduction in hair growth can be expected with each treatment.
Treatments are repeated every four to eight weeks.
After laser hair removal, patients may experience redness, puffiness and sunburn sensations for the first few days. You may return to work and other regular activities as soon as you feel comfortable.
The hair that regrows following treatment tends to be lighter and finer in texture.
Three to seven days after treatment, patients may notice what appears to be a re-growth of hair, but is actually a shedding of the treated hair, which will fall out and not grow back.
Patients are instructed to avoid sun exposure and to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher following the procedure.

FAQ:

How does the laser work?
Lasers safely remove unwanted facial and body hair by selectively targeting melanin (pigment) inside the hair follicle, generating energy in the form of heat at the root of the hair, and destroying the hair without damaging the skin.

Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Laser hair removal treatments are extremely safe and should be performed by certified laser specialists.

Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Most individuals experience no more than a slight stinging sensation as the laser pulses are applied. Some parts of the body do tend to be more sensitive than others and a topical numbing cream is available.

How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Does It Take?
The number of treatments required for long-term benefits depends on the area being treated, your hair density, and the hair's growth cycle. There are three phases of hair growth — Anagen (active), Catagen (regression) and Telogen (resting). Laser technology is designed to treat hair in the Anagen phase of growth. Additional factors, including age, ethnicity, weight, hormones, diet, medication and metabolism, influence hair growth and play a role in the location, thickness and resilience of your hair. Although each client is unique, experience tells us that you can expect an average of 4-8 treatments spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, depending on the body location of the unwanted hair.

How Long is the Laser Hair Removal Treatment Session?
The length of an individual laser hair removal treatment is determined by the density of hair growth and overall size of the area to be treated. Small areas may take as little as fifteen minutes, while larger areas, such as the back and leg, may require up to an hour or longer.

How Much Does It Cost?
Compared to a lifetime of waxing, shaving or purchasing depilatory creams, laser hair removal is more affordable. Price is based on the size of the area to be treated.