Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses pulsed laser energy to remove unwanted hair from a targeted area while leaving the surrounding skin unharmed. Common areas on which laser hair removal is performed are the chin, upper lip, chest, underarms, back, bikini line, and legs.
Although there are many temporary treatments, including tweezing, shaving, using depilatory creams and waxing, to remove unwanted hair, patients seeking more permanent and less irritating/painful methods are frequently good candidates for laser hair removal. Through what is a safe and usually painless procedure, hair can be removed from nearly any area of the body (the eye area is an exception because of the possibility of serious eye damage).
Candidates for Laser Hair Removal
Because the laser beams used to remove hair target its melanin (pigment), the best candidates have dark hair and light skin. Conversely, those with blond, red, gray, or white hair and dark skin are usually not good candidates. Recent technological advances have made laser hair removal for those with dark skin more successful, while techniques for using lasers to effectively remove light-colored hair are being investigated.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
There are many benefits to having unwanted hair removed through the use of laser therapy. They include the following:
- Hair is precisely targeted
- Procedure is quick
- Results are permanent (for 90 percent of patients) or long-lasting
For many patients, laser hair removal is painless, although some experience minor discomfort, usually described as something like a rubber band‘s snapping against the skin.
Introducing Vectus Hair Removal Treatments!
Vectus treatments offer quick, easy and customized laser hair removal using smart technology. You can now permanently reduce unwanted hair with a treatment personalized to your specific skin type.
Hair Removal Made Easier
Shaving, plucking, tweezing, waxing—all are temporary fixes for unwanted hair. With our laser hair removal treatments, you can quickly and easily reduce unwanted hair on your body or face with longer lasting results.
The secret lies in technology. Cynosure’s laser hair removal treatments target and destroy the hair cells responsible for hair growth without damaging the surrounding skin. The result is smooth, hair-free skin that lasts!
Laser Hair Removal Procedure
Laser hair removal is performed while the target area is numbed by a topical anesthetic. A handheld device that emits intense laser pulses is moved across the area, focusing on individual hair follicles. There are several different methods of laser hair removal, some of which combine laser impulses with radiofrequency. The appropriate method for each patient is decided in consultation with the physician administering treatment.
Hair growth takes place cyclically, in three stages. The most effective laser hair removal takes place during the androgen (full-growth) stage because the hair follicles in this stage are susceptible to laser energy. But, because all hair is not in the same stage of growth at any given time, several laser treatments, usually between three and five, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, are necessary. To some extent, the length of treatment depends on the texture of the patient‘s hair and the location from which it is being removed.
Recovery From Laser Hair Removal
Some redness, soreness, or swelling may occur immediately after laser hair removal, but they almost always disappear within a few days. Cold compresses or ice packs, moisturizers, and anti-inflammatory creams may minimize discomfort. Sun exposure should be avoided as much as possible for some period of time.
Complications of Laser Hair Removal
The most common complication of laser hair removal is the regrowth of unwanted hair. Frequently, however, the hair that regrows is finer and lighter than the hair that was removed. Usually, regrowth can be addressed with a few additional treatment sessions. Other complications that may arise after laser hair treatment include skin irritation such as blistering and crusting; changes in pigmentation or texture of the skin; and scarring at the removal site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Treatments are virtually painless and will vary patient to patient. Patients describe a range of sensations during treatment from tingling to the snapping of a rubber band.
How Long Are Treatments?
Treatments can take from just 5-60 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
A series of 3-6 treatments is recommended for optimal results but, every patient is different. Work with your provider to develop a plan that is right for you!
Why Are Multiple Treatments Needed?
Our hair naturally grows in 3 different stages. All our hair is not in the same stage at the same time, so when an area is treated only a percentage of hair follicles will be affected. Therefore, to effectively reduce your unwanted hair, multiple treatments are necessary.
Is Laser Hair Removal Right For Me?
This treatment is safe for all skin types, including light and dark skin and most hair colors. Work with your provider to determine the best treatment options for you!
Additional Resources
Before and Afters
Before and Afters
