Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a laser – an intense, pulsating beam of light – to remove unwanted hair. During laser hair removal, a laser beam passes through the skin to an individual hair follicle. The intense heat of the laser damages the hair follicle, which inhibits future hair growth.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
The most commonly treated areas include the upper lip, bikini area, underarms, chest, back and legs.
Is Laser Hair Removal FDA Approved?
Laser hair removal is FDA approved.
Who Are Good Candidates for Laser Hair Removal?
The best candidate for laser hair removal would be someone with very light skin and dark hair. That’s because the laser “see” the hair without “seeing” the skin because the hair, not the skin, needs to absorb the laser light. Basically anyone who has some pigmentation to their hair is a good candidate for laser hair removal. This is as long as the hair is not around the eyes. So that means that almost everyone is a good candidate as long as their hair has some pigment and has realistic expectations.
How Is a Laser Hair Removal Procedure Performed?
Highly controlled pulses of laser light are selectively absorbed by hair follicles lying below the surface of the skin. The absorbed light heats and destroys the hair follicle, preventing regrowth from occurring and without damaging surrounding tissues. The hairs go through three different stages during their life cycle at different periods of time. The hair is most vulnerable to laser at one of those stages, which is why several treatments are required to assure the destruction of hair follicles.
How Long Does a Laser Hair Removal Last?
Although laser hair removal effectively slows hair growth, it doesn’t guarantee permanent hair removal. It typically takes several laser hair removal treatments to provide an extended hair-free period. Periodic maintenance treatments may be needed as well.
What Are Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?
Side effects are rare. You may experience some slight reddening or local swelling at the treatment site, but this typically goes away within hours. On rare occasions, some blistering or bruising may occur, but typically resolves quickly. The skin may also become lighter or darker following treatment, but will generally return to normal within a few weeks. Limiting sun exposure before and after treatments will minimize risk of complications.