Laser Hair Removal Q & A

Q. Who are good candidates for laser hair removal?
A. In general, if you have a concern about unwanted hair, you are probably a candidate.  Your complexion type and how your skin reacts to sunlight are key factors in determining the benefits you may receive.  The most dramatic results are in patients with light skin and dark hair.  Other personal health factors need to be considered, so each patient must be evaluated individually. 

Q. Is there an age limit for laser hair removal patients? 
A. Women of all ages – from young teens to older adults – have been treated and are enjoying the benefits of laser hair removal.  Young and mature women alike have sought treatment for a variety of reasons, including: Cosmetic needs; Convenience; To eliminate uncomfortable, unsightly rashes or ingrown hairs that can result from other hair removal methods; To rid themselves of hair that can cause self-consciousness or embarrassment; & Medical conditions

Q. I’m in my mid-40s and have noticed a little more ‘peach fuzz’ around my jawline, and I’d like to have it removed.  Am I a good candidate? 
A. Probably, but a lot depends on the color of the hair.  In order for the laser to work, there has to be a substance called melanin in the hair (melanin is the substance that gives hair color).  If the hair is blonde or white, it can not be treated because there is no color in the hair. 

Q. How do I prepare for a laser hair removal treatment?
A. There are some steps you will be asked to take before your laser hair removal treatment begins.  These steps should be followed for the best results: Avoid sun exposure and tanning booths 4-6 weeks prior to your treatment.  (Wear a sunscreen SPF 15 or higher.); Avoid waxing and electrolysis for one month prior to treatment; Shave the treatment area 1-3 days prior to treatment.

Q. How does a laser remove hair?
A. The laser sends a pulse of light that targets the hair follicle, where each hair grows.  The light passes through your skin and is absorbed by the hair.  When the hair absorbs the light, the laser energy becomes heat, which destroys the follicle.  Our laser heats the hair and not your skin.

Q. Is the treatment painful? 
A. Most patients say the treatment feels like a series of pricks to the skin.  Patients who have tried other treatments such as electrolysis or waxing, say there is much less discomfort with the laser.  Within 30 minutes of your treatment, the skinin the treatment area may become pink or red, but this usually lasts only one day.

Q. How many treatments will I need?
A. Hair grows in cycles.  Some hairs are actively growing while other hairs are in a resting phase.  Hair do not grow at the same rate at the same time.  At the time of a treatment, the laser will destroy hair that is growing in the active phase.  The hairs that are in the resting phase will not be affected.  Additional treatments are needed in about 6-8 weeks or when other follicles re-enter the growing phase.   The number of treatments needed depends on the area you would like to have treated.

Q. What causes excessive body hair? 
A. Hair growth patterns can be affected by several factors:  heredity, changes in gland secretions and hormone levels.  When who have just had a baby may also notice a change in hair growth patterns. 

Q. Is laser hair removal permanent? 
A. Laser treatments can reduce or eliminate unwanted hair and results vary with each individual.  Laser hair removal can be safely called long-term, with most patients having little or no re-growth after treatment. 

If you have further questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please call
Hannah Cox, Esthetician at 910-235-9759.