Tired of having ingrown hairs, little red bumps after waxing, or darker skin and thicker hair growth after shaving? If you are, laser hair removal may be an option worth considering.

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed in the U.S. People commonly focus on areas like legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and the bikini line. The treatment utilizes pulses of highly concentrated light into the hair follicle.

The pigment of the hair absorbs the light after that and destroys the hair follicle. Laser hair removal treatment delays hair growth for long periods of time effectively. You need to go for multiple laser hair removal treatments for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed further down the line.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Regardless of the area that you’re looking to remove hair, laser hair removal can help. Hair follicles are destroyed with minimal discomfort in just a matter of minutes. The treatment uses highly concentrated energy, where hair follicles are targeted and pulses of light are emitted.

The laser’s energy is absorbed by the pigment of the hair, the same way sunlight is absorbed into darker clothing. Laser hair removal has the best effect on those with dark, coarse hair and a fair complexion. A high contrast between skin and hair color results in the best outcomes.

There Are Three Main Types Of Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Here are some of the most popular types of laser hair removal treatments:

Diode: The diode laser is a very effective treatment for light and dark skin.

Alexandrite: It is the fastest type of laser treatment and works best for treating larger areas of the body among patients who have light-to-olive complexions.

Nd:YAG: It is a long pulse laser that can be used safely on all skin types, including tanned skin. It is less useful for light or fine hair.

What Happens During The Laser Hair Removal Procedure?

Before the procedure begins, the treatment area with the excess hair will be cut back to a few millimeters above the skin’s surface. A pair of special goggles will be provided to protect your eyes during the procedure.

A hand-held laser instrument will be pressed on to your skin. Your doctor will activate the laser and the beam will pass through your skin to the hair follicles. It will inhibit hair growth and you may feel a little discomfort.

A cold sensation from the cooling device may be felt. Depending on which area the treatment is being performed on, it could take a few minutes to more than an hour for the complete procedure.

What Happens After The Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

The areas of the skin that were treated will feel a bit sensitive and sore, you will be advised to apply ice and cool it with a cream and cooling compressors.

What Are The Results After The Treatment?

Results will be visible in a few days or weeks after the treatment. When your hair regrows, it usually starts growing lighter in color and more delicate in texture.

Contact Our Office

Interested in learning more about the laser hair removal treatment? Contact Parker Plastic Surgery to schedule your initial consultation with skilled Plastic Surgeon, Dr. James Parker.