Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. The laser targets hair follicles at their base, slowing their ability to regrow and eventually stopping it altogether. Laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair, but it can be successfully used on all skin types. The procedure is used to reduce unwanted hair in common treatment locations such as legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and the bikini line. However, its possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area, except the eyelid or surrounding area. Skin with tattoos should not be treated either.
Preparation for laser hair removal treatment includes avoiding other hair removal methods that involve the follicle in advance of the treatment. There are also certain skincare products that you may be advised to avoid in the leadup to your laser hair removal treatment, such as anti-aging products that contain ingredients like salicylic or alphahydroxy acid, or perhaps benzoyl peroxide. Sun exposure should also be avoided before and after the treatment.
The procedure can cause side effects such as blistering, herpes simplex (cold sores) outbreaks, infections, scarring, and skin lightening or darkening. Burns, permanent changes to skin color, and scars can occur if the treatment is performed by an inexperienced person. It is recommended to have the treatment performed by a medical doctor who is extremely skilled in using lasers and has in-depth knowledge of the skin, such as a board-certified dermatologist.
The cost of laser hair removal varies depending on the area being treated and the number of treatments required. Most patients can have laser hair removal once every 4 to 6 weeks, and multiple treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well.
