The laser hair removal procedure uses pulses of heat to destroy the hair follicle, leaving your skin smooth and hair-free. The process is quick, relatively pain-free and very effective. It is a great solution for men and women who are tired of shaving, waxing or tweezing their hair. Laser hair removal is a permanent solution for unwanted hair in many areas of the body, including the face, neck and arms.
The best candidates for laser hair https://www.413medicalaesthetics.ca/services/laser-hair-removal removal have light skin and dark hair because the contrast in pigment makes it easier for the laser to target and damage the follicle while avoiding the surrounding tissue. The process can be performed on any part of the body, except for the delicate eyelid area. It can be especially useful on the face and neck for removing unwanted hair and treating ingrown hairs, as well as on the back, chest, arms, legs, and abdomen.
When performed by an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, laser hair removal offers a safe and effective way to achieve the smooth, silky skin you want without having to bother with razors or shaving cream. It also minimizes the risk of unwanted side effects like blisters, burns or ingrown hairs.
During the consultation, your dermatologist will discuss your goals for treatment and the specific area of the body you want to treat. They will then review your medical history and perform a physical exam to ensure you are healthy enough for the procedure. It is important to disclose any medications you are taking, as some can interfere with the results of your laser hair removal treatments.
Before your treatment begins, your doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to the area that will be treated, if necessary. Then, the technician will place a protective shield over your eyes. They will give the laser a pulse of light and watch for several minutes to ensure the correct settings are used. You may be asked to shave the area two to three days before your appointment so that the hair follicle is exposed and can absorb the light energy. You should also avoid tweezing or plucking hair in the treatment area.
You can expect some hair to regrow after your treatment sessions are complete, but the new hair will be thinner and lighter in color than the previous growth. The difference in appearance will become more noticeable over a period of about two months as the old hair falls out and the newly treated hair grows in.
To maximize your results, you will need to have regular re-treatments. These will be scheduled according to your hair growth cycle. For example, your facial hair will need re-treatments every 4 weeks, while the axillae (armpit) and bikini area will need them more frequently. In between your treatment sessions, it is recommended that you keep the treated area protected from sunlight and tanning beds as these can cause discoloration and adverse side effects.