What You Need to Know About Laser Hair Removal

        Are you frustrated with shaving, tweezing, and waxing to remove your unwanted hair? It’s time for laser hair removal! Laser hair removal is accomplished through directing highly concentrated laser energy into the hair follicle. Pigments in the follicles absorb the energy which destroys the hair. Lasers can be used on the face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, and many other areas. Are you interested in laser hair removal? Here is everything you need to know.

        Laser hair removal is significant because it targets unwanted hair without damaging the surrounding skin. Usually, treatments need to be completed in multiple sessions to increase effectiveness. Laser hair treatments will greatly reduce the amount of unwanted hair you have, but not necessarily result in permanent hair removal. It is effective long-term, which makes it totally worth it!  Wondering if you are a candidate for laser hair removal? Whether you are a man or a woman, we all have unwanted hair and laser hair removal can change that. The lasers are attracted to pigment, so dark hair is best for this procedure to be most effective. Lighter hair individuals will more likely need more treatment to get the results they are looking for.

        Before your laser hair removal appointment, you should limit plucking or waxing to the area you wish to remove hair, for at least six weeks. This is because the laser targets the roots of the hair which are temporarily removed when waxing or plucking. Shaving is okay before your appointment. Sun exposure should also be avoided for six weeks prior to and following the treatment as it can make laser hair removal less successful and can increase the likelihood of complications following treatment. You should also keep your skin free of lotion, creams, self-tanner oils, or any other products. Clean skin will be necessary. You should also let us know about any medications you make be on because they may need to be out of your system in advance.

        Prior to the procedure, the hair being treated will be trimmed to a few millimeters above the surface of the skin. The laser hair equipment will be calibrated to the color, thickness and location of the hair being treated in addition to the patient’s skin color. The patient’s skin will be protected by a cold gel or special cooling device and this will also help the laser penetrate the skin. Appropriate eye protection will also be worn, and you will need to expose the area being treated. A laser will be placed on the area of your skin and will concentrate a beam of laser energy to target the pigment of your hair. There is minimal discomfort with new laser technology, but you might feel mild discomfort, like a small rubber band flicking on your skin. How long the procedure will take depends on the area being treated.

        Scheduling your next laser hair removal session should be done for roughly four to six weeks later. Recovery is simple and painless. You may have some mild redness, but it should resolve quickly. Be sure to wear sunblock and protected clothing on the area that was treated if you are going to be in the sun. You also should avoid working out or any activity that will resolve in sweating the same day after your treatment. For the best results, you will need multiple sessions, so make sure to make a series of appointments. Dr. Kurzman and team will recommend how many sessions based on your specific needs.

        Now that you know everything there is to know about laser hair removal, do not wait any longer to make your appointment! Fall is the perfect time for these treatments because it easier to avoid the sun and you’re less likely to be waxing like you would be in the summer months. What are you waiting for? Call now set up your laser hair removal appointment, or to schedule a free consult to learn more about laser hair removal. 718-317-0941