Laser Hair Removal
- Procedures
- Body
- Laser Hair Removal
Evidence Based
Laser hair removal is a temporary hair removal solution that removes hair and then significantly delays future regrowth.
E
Written By: Erin Storm, PA-C
Article History
Procedure Overview
Concerns
Ideal Candidate
Recovery
Side Effects
Results
Average Cost
Pros
- Reduces Hair Growth
- Precision
Cons
- Multiple Sessions
- Expensive
- Specific Skin Tones
- Specific Hair Colors
- Not Permanent
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
The Skinny
Average Recovery
1 days
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Laser/Light Therapy
Surgical
No
Cost
$125 - $1250
AEDITpro
Before & After Images by Provider
Sheila Barbarino, MD, FAAO, FAACS, F.A.C.S
Laser Hair Removal
Torrance, CA
Julie Russak, MD, FAAD
Laser Hair Removal
New York, NY
Laser Hair RemovalBefore & After Images by Provider
The Specifics
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removalis a temporary hair removal solution. Laser hair removal uses heat and light energy absorbed by the pigment cells of hair to heat the hair follicle causing significant, but temporary damage. Treated areas will see a loss of hair with a long period of time before hair grows back in.
Laser Hair Removal works most effectively on those with dark hair, coarse hair and a lighter complexion. Unlike electrolysis, which is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for permanent hair removal, laser hair removal and IPL are considered semi-permanet hair removal solutions.
What cosmetic concerns does a laser hair removal procedure treat?
Unwanted Hair: Laser hair removal temporarily damages hair follicles to cause hair to shed, and significantly delays the growth of new hair.
Who is the ideal candidate for a laser hair removal procedure?
The ideal candidate for laser hair removal has a light skin color with a dark hair color and is seeking unwanted hair removal from the face and body. Laser hair removal is not recommended for light colored or fine hair. This procedure should be used with caution in individuals with darker skin tones due to risk of scarring.
What is the average recovery associated with a laser hair removal procedure?
Most patients experience one to two days of recovery following a laser hair removal. Redness and swelling typically resolve within hours. Candidates should not use any other forms of hair removal or bleach their hair following this cosmetic procedure. Sun exposure needs to be avoided for six weeks.
What are the potential side effects of a laser hair removal procedure?
Possible side effects following a Laser Hair Removal procedure include redness, swelling, scarring, changes in skin pigmentation, and blistering.
What can someone expect from the results of a laser hair removal procedure?
The results of laser hair removal begin to develop in days to weeks. Hair will fall out in this time, although results vary significantly and are difficult to predict. Repeated treatments are usually necessary. Hair growth that is hormone dependent may not be affected by Laser Hair Removal.
What is the average cost of a laser hair removal procedure?
A laser hair removal procedure can cost anywhere from $125 to $1,250. The actual cost of laser hair removal is dependent upon location, hair loss specialist or dermatologist, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of laser hair removal.
Pros
- Reduces Hair Growth
- Precision
Cons
- Multiple Sessions
- Expensive
- Specific Skin Tones
- Specific Hair Colors
- Not Permanent
Invasiveness Score
mildmoderatesevere
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after laser hair removal.
Before Treatment
- Avoid sun exposure
- Avoid tanning lotions
- Tanned skin may require a bleaching cream
- Avoid other hair removal methods for 4 weeks
- Avoiding blood-thinning medications
- Trimming and shaving is recommended the day before treatment
During Treatment
- Protective goggles worn to shield the eyes
- Topical anesthetic applied
- A hand-held laser instrument is pressed to the skin
- Duration of a session will depend on the size of the area
- Number of treatments will depend on the area, hair characteristics and pain tolerance
Immediately After Treatment
- Redness and swelling for several hours
1-2 Days After Treatment and Beyond
- Avoid sun exposure for 6 weeks
- Refrain from all forms of hair removal
- Do not bleach hair
Result Notes
- Hairs fall out over a period of days to weeks
- Repeated treatments are usually necessary
- Results vary significantly and are difficult to predict
- Hormonal hair growth may not see results
Before Treatment
- Avoid sun exposure
- Avoid tanning lotions
- Tanned skin may require a bleaching cream
- Avoid other hair removal methods for 4 weeks
- Avoiding blood-thinning medications
- Trimming and shaving is recommended the day before treatment
During Treatment
- Protective goggles worn to shield the eyes
- Topical anesthetic applied
- A hand-held laser instrument is pressed to the skin
- Duration of a session will depend on the size of the area
- Number of treatments will depend on the area, hair characteristics and pain tolerance
Immediately After Treatment
- Redness and swelling for several hours
1-2 Days After Treatment and Beyond
- Avoid sun exposure for 6 weeks
- Refrain from all forms of hair removal
- Do not bleach hair
Result Notes
- Hairs fall out over a period of days to weeks
- Repeated treatments are usually necessary
- Results vary significantly and are difficult to predict
- Hormonal hair growth may not see results
Before Treatment
- Avoid sun exposure
- Avoid tanning lotions
- Tanned skin may require a bleaching cream
- Avoid other hair removal methods for 4 weeks
- Avoiding blood-thinning medications
- Trimming and shaving is recommended the day before treatment
During Treatment
- Protective goggles worn to shield the eyes
- Topical anesthetic applied
- A hand-held laser instrument is pressed to the skin
- Duration of a session will depend on the size of the area
- Number of treatments will depend on the area, hair characteristics and pain tolerance
Immediately After Treatment
- Redness and swelling for several hours
1-2 Days After Treatment and Beyond
- Avoid sun exposure for 6 weeks
- Refrain from all forms of hair removal
- Do not bleach hair
Result Notes
- Hairs fall out over a period of days to weeks
- Repeated treatments are usually necessary
- Results vary significantly and are difficult to predict
- Hormonal hair growth may not see results
The Takeaway
Laser hair removal is a temporary hair removal solution to remove unwanted hair and significantly slow the regrowth process.
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