Laser hair removal is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure that involves using concentrated beams of light to pinpoint hair follicles and prohibit their future growth. People love laser hair removal procedures, because they eliminate shaving time! At Siperstein Dermatology Group, we have laser hair removal experts who are here to answer your most pressing questions.
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Yes, there is some discomfort associated with LHR, but in many cases, we may be able to apply topical numbing medicine ahead of time depending on the surface area of the body being treated. This can help significantly.
Will I Get A Rash?
Many people experience some redness in the area treated, but this fades quickly and is just associated with the inflammation from the procedure itself – it is not a rash.
How Long Do You Have To Wait Between Treatments?
This completely depends on the area being treated and the hair cycle in that area.
How Long Do The Effects of LHR Last?
Effects are very long-lasting, but it is possible that patients will need touch up treatments in the future. Of course, certain factors like hormones can stimulate hair growth long after laser is complete.
What Are The After Effects?
Some patients can experience redness and irritation/inflammation, but this fades quickly.
What Is The Best Hair/Skin Type For Laser Hair Removal?
This depends on skin type. Individuals with darker skin will require a different laser wavelength than individuals with lighter skin to avoid hyperpigmentation.
What Should Be Done Before/After Laser Hair Removal Appointments For Best Results?
Do NOT wax prior to LHR or in-between sessions. It is imperative that the hair remains under the skin surface in order for the laser to be attracted to the follicle. It is advisable to shave prior to the procedure.
When Will The Results Be Noticeable?
After a LHR session, the area will be smooth. You will notice after several treatments that the amount of hair progressively lessens.
What Shouldn’t I Do After My Treatment?
You should NOT go into the sun after a LHR treatment. You will risk hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin in the area treated.
Why Can’t I Take Antibiotics On Treatment?
Certain antibiotics cause an increase in photosensitivity, or sensitivity to light. This can put you at increased risk for complications from LHR. Discuss with your dermatologist if your medications would prevent you from doing the procedure.
Can I Shave After The Treatment Or Let The Hair Grow Until Treatment Removes It?
You can shave in between treatments, but it is not advisable to remove the hair in any other way in between treatments. The laser is attracted to the pigment of the hair and, therefore, hair must remain under the skin surface in order for the laser to be effective.
What Type Of Laser Treatment Works Best?
This depends on skin type. For individuals with a lighter skin-type, we have a 755nm wavelength laser. For those with a darker skin type, a 1064nm wavelength laser works best to avoid change in pigment.
What’s The Difference Between Home Laser Hair Removal Kits And Getting It Done At A Dermatology Office?
The technology available in office is far superior to that you can purchase for at home use. LHR technique should be tailored to the specific patient, and not generic as would be with an at-home device.
What Is The Laser Actually Doing To The Hair?
The laser emits a certain wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle. This is why only dark hair is amenable to LHR. This energy is converted into heat, which causes damage to the follicle.
How Many Settings Does The Laser Have?
There are endless combinations of settings. These will be specifically customized to your needs.
Can The Laser Give You Cancer?
No
Why Do I need to Wear Goggles / Protective Glasses During Treatment?
The eye absorbs the wavelength emitted by the laser, which can damage the lens, cornea, and retina. Therefore, proper eye protection is necessary when undergoing LHR.
I Had A Series Of 8 Treatments Over The Period Of A Year But 3 Months After Treatments Were Done ALL The Hair Came Back. Why?
This can be a patient-specific situation. There are several factors that could have been important in this situation, such as medications, other medical conditions, etc. We will review your medical history, and if there is anything that would prevent effective LHR, we will review that with you.
Is It Advisable To Do Your Whole Body In One Shot Or Stick To Treatments On Smaller Areas First?
This depends completely on tolerance of the patient. Whole body treatments can be done at once if the patient prefers.
Which Areas React Best To Treatment?
As long as the hair is dark, it should be amenable to laser treatment.
At Siperstein Dermatology Group, our laser hair removal experts offer complimentary consultations! We have two offices in Boynton Beach and Boca Raton with the most state-of-the-art equipment to make your experience comfortable and eliminate unwanted hair. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
