If you're tired of repeatedly shaving, waxing, or tweezing unwanted hair, laser hair removal offers a different approach. Rather than temporarily removing visible hair, laser technology targets the hair follicle to help reduce future hair growth.
The goal is significant long-term hair reduction. While results vary and laser hair removal does not guarantee that every hair will permanently disappear, successful treatment can substantially decrease the amount of unwanted hair and the need for frequent temporary hair-removal methods.
Laser hair removal uses controlled light energy that is absorbed by pigment associated with the hair. This energy is converted into heat, which damages the hair follicle and helps reduce future growth.
Hair grows in different cycles, and individual hairs are not all in the same stage at the same time. For this reason, laser hair removal generally requires a series of treatments rather than a single appointment.
The number and timing of treatments depend on factors such as the treatment area, hair color and thickness, skin type, laser technology, and individual response.
The primary advantage of laser hair removal is its ability to provide long-term reduction in unwanted hair.
Shaving removes hair at the skin's surface, while waxing and tweezing pull hair from the root. In each case, the follicle remains capable of producing another hair.
Laser hair removal instead uses heat to damage the follicle and reduce its ability to produce future hair.
Some hair can eventually regrow, and occasional maintenance treatments may be appropriate for certain patients. Results vary from person to person.
Regular shaving or waxing can become a repetitive part of your routine.
As unwanted hair is reduced through a laser treatment series, many patients can decrease how frequently they need to shave, wax, or use other temporary hair-removal methods.
For someone who regularly removes hair from larger areas such as the legs, back, chest, bikini area, or underarms, reducing that ongoing maintenance can be an important benefit.
Laser hair removal can be used on many areas of the face and body.
Common treatment areas include:
Treatment suitability depends on the specific area and the individual's skin and hair characteristics.
Shaving and waxing can contribute to ingrown hairs in some people.
By reducing unwanted hair growth and decreasing the need for frequent shaving or waxing, laser hair removal may help reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs in treated areas.
Individual results vary, and laser hair removal should not be viewed as a guaranteed treatment for every case of ingrown hair or skin irritation.
Modern laser technology allows treatment parameters to be adjusted according to individual characteristics.
At Park Slope Laser Aesthetic Center, the Cynosure Elite+® platform combines Alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser technology. This allows the provider to select treatment parameters based on factors such as skin type, hair characteristics, and treatment area.
An individualized assessment is important because the appropriate wavelength and settings are not necessarily the same for every patient.
Laser hair removal can be performed across a range of skin types when appropriate technology and individualized treatment settings are used.
Hair characteristics are also important. Because laser hair removal relies on pigment in the hair to absorb energy, very light blonde, gray, white, or red hair may respond less effectively.
A consultation allows the provider to evaluate the relationship between your skin type, hair characteristics, treatment area, and available laser technology.
Treatment sensations vary from person to person.
Patients may experience temporary warmth, tingling, or a snapping sensation as laser pulses are delivered. Sensitivity can vary according to the treatment area, hair characteristics, individual tolerance, and treatment settings.
Comfort measures may be discussed when appropriate.
Laser hair removal generally involves little interruption to normal activities, although individual reactions vary.
Temporary redness, warmth, mild swelling, or sensitivity may occur following treatment. Follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by your treatment provider and protect treated skin from unnecessary sun exposure.
There isn't one treatment number that applies to everyone.
Because hair grows in different cycles, a series of treatments is generally necessary. The number and timing of appointments can vary according to:
Some patients may also benefit from occasional maintenance treatments if unwanted hair regrows later.
Whether laser hair removal is worth it depends on your goals, treatment area, hair characteristics, and how much you value reducing ongoing hair-removal maintenance.
Unlike shaving or waxing, laser hair removal requires an initial treatment series. However, long-term hair reduction may decrease your reliance on razors, shaving products, waxing appointments, and the time spent repeatedly removing unwanted hair.
Instead of comparing only the price of one laser session with one razor or waxing appointment, consider the overall goal and long-term treatment plan.
Laser hair removal can be performed during different times of the year, but sun exposure is an important consideration.
Fall and winter can be convenient times to begin because many people have less sun exposure. Starting a treatment series several months before summer can also allow time for multiple sessions.
If you're considering treatment during warmer months, follow your provider's instructions regarding tanning, sun exposure, and sun protection. For a more detailed seasonal guide, read about the best time of year to start laser hair removal.
For someone seeking significant long-term reduction of unwanted hair and less dependence on shaving or waxing, laser hair removal may be worth considering.
It isn't a guarantee of completely hair-free skin, and individual results vary. The best way to determine whether treatment is appropriate is to consider your skin type, hair characteristics, treatment areas, expectations, and treatment plan.
If you're considering laser hair removal in Brooklyn, Park Slope Laser Aesthetic Center offers individualized treatment planning using Cynosure Elite+ technology.
A consultation can help evaluate your skin and hair characteristics, discuss the areas you want treated, and determine an appropriate laser hair removal plan based on your goals.
