Laser Hair Reduction

Different forms of hair reduction are practiced for several reasons, including cultural, sexual, medical and religious. Forms of hair removal have been practiced in almost all human cultures since at least the Neolithic Era.

Depilation

Depilation is the removal of the part of the hair above the surface of the skin. The most common form of depilation is shaving or trimming. Another option is the use of chemical depilatories, which work by breaking the down the proteins in the hair.

Epilation

Epilation is the removal of the entire hair, including the part below the skin. Methods include waxing, sugaring, epilation devices, lasers, threading, intense pulsed light or electrology. Hair is also sometimes removed by plucking with tweezers.

We offer in our practice waxing (a temporary hair reduction) and diode laser (a more permanent hair reduction).

Waxing

Waxing is a form of semi-permanent hair removal which removes the hair from the root. New hair will not grow back in the previously waxed area for four to six weeks.

Diode Laser Hair Removal

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal treatments use light energy to permanently damage or destroy hair follicles—usually on the legs, back, underarms, and face—with the goal of preventing hair from growing back. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says laser hair removal effectively reduces the amount of hair you have by about 70%. While it may not remove it forever, the hair that grows back is usually much finer and less noticeable.

You’ll need about six to eight laser hair removal treatments staggered every four to eight weeks to see these results, plus an annual maintenance session. It’s smart to start a series of treatments in the late fall or early winter, so you’ll see smooth skin by summer.

Lasers remove the entire hair by causing thermal damage. It is the pigment in the hair that attracts the laser light. Older lasers just target the hair shaft with a “quick” burst of heat. Our new triple wave diode laser targets also the melanin in the hair, but the heat is delivered over a longer period of time, allowing some of the heat to get transmitted to the hair bulb and the stem cells, destroying them. It is also safe for all types of skin color. This prevents the regrowth of new hair. Plus, this more gradual heating makes the treatment more comfortable and reduces the risk of also injuring the skin. Reduce heat and a cooling tip makes the treatment comfortable. Hair gets damaged by the laser in the growing phase.

What are the benefits of a three wave laser?

Most previous machines use IPL or one wave lasers (808), but this can limit the patients that can benefit from this treatment.

We use a three wavelength (755/808/1064nm) that is suitable for all types of hair color and texture.

Alexandrite Laser (755nm wavelength): the golden standard for light-colored and thin hair, such as the eyebrows and upper lip.

Speed Laser (808nm wavelength): the classic wavelength in laser hair removal. It’s deep penetration, high average power and a high repetition rate make treatment very fast. Also, the 808nm has a moderate melanin absorption level, making it safe for darker skin types, making it ideal for treating the arms, legs, cheeks, and beard.

Yag Laser (1064nm wavelength): a focused solution for darker skin types.

What to expect before procedure?

• Do not pluck the hair or remove it by methods like waxing or threading for at least 1 month before the procedure.
• Avoid sunlight for at least 4 to 6 weeks before the procedure. Use a good sunscreen as directed by the doctor.
• Detan and bleach the skin using products recommended by the doctor.
• Trimming the hair in the treatment site is done just before the procedure to avoid burning of the existing hair.
• Inform the doctor about regular medications taken, if any as many medications may interfere with the procedure.

What to expect during procedure?

• The removal process is done in a few sessions depending upon the hair quality and quantity. It usually takes 6-8 sessions to obtain a significant hair reduction. Additional maintenance treatments may be needed 3-6 months later to eliminate hairs that where in a dormant stage at the time of the initial treatment.
• Goggles are worn for eye protection.
• Cooling gel may be applied to the site of hair removal before starting the procedure. Skin may be cooled in certain areas to reduce discomfort.
• Small handy device is used to pass hot laser beams. The light from this beam is converted into heat which inactivates the hair follicles in the area.
• After the procedure, cool pack and creams are applied to prevent irritation.

What to expect after procedure?

• Swelling, redness and some changes in skin color are commonly experienced immediately after the procedure which subsides gradually in few hours.
• Ice pack can be applied to relieve these symptoms.
• Completely avoid sun for next few weeks and use a strong sunscreen lotion.
• Avoid all other hair removal methods in the treatment site.

Risks and Complications

• Blisters
• Irritated skin
• Pigmentation