How it works
The laser light is specifically designed to be absorbed by what is known as a "target chromophore" or more commonly in hair removal - melanin or pigment - contained in the hair follicle itself. The absorption of the laser light thereby results in the "heating" at the very base of the follicle which causes injury to the follicle. The injured follicle is then "shed" by your body's own natural process resulting in that follicle being disabled for an extended period of time.
What to expect
Generally, the laser treatment itself is described as a “snap” of a rubber band snap against the skin. Compared to waxing and electrolysis, the treatment has very little discomfort. After each treatment the skin will be red and slightly swollen, this typically subsides in a few hours but can last longer in some cases. Some people do require a topical anesthetic to numb the skin prior to the treatment. If you feel you require the topical anesthetic, the physician on staff at Physicians Laser Centers can prescribe a topical cream that will numb the skin prior to treatment. Typically, our clients see a permanent reduction in the amount and density of hair growth after 4 to 6 treatments.
What are the most popular areas for laser hair removal?
The most popular areas are female facial hair, underarm and bikini hair and men’s back hair.
How long has laser hair removal technology been in use?
Lasers have been used in medicine for a variety of conditions for nearly 25 years. Although laser hair has been available since 1995, effective laser hair removal has only been available for about the past four years.
What is the difference between pulsed light and lasers?
Many facilities advertise laser hair removal but use a pulsed light device. Pulsed light is not laser and treatments for hair removal using a pulsed light device in our experience are generally considered less effective when compared to laser hair removal. Pulsed light treatments are effective however when used for skin rejuvenation and is one of the other laser and light based technologies available at Physicians Laser Center.
How is laser hair removal different from Electrolysis?
Electrolysis is the process of treating individual hairs one at a time, is just as expensive long term and much more painful when compared to laser hair removal.
Are there risks from laser hair removal?
When performed by a trained practitioner, laser hair removal is considered a safe –non -invasive procedure. There is no recovery time and does not require any lifestyle change. Patients can apply make-up and return to work or play immediately. As with all laser procedures performed at Physicians Laser Center, an informed consent explains all the possible risks and is available at your complimentary consultation.
Are there age requirements for laser hair removal?
Generally, any patient under the age of consent (18) will require the consent of their parent or guardian. Although we have treated people as young as 12 for medical reasons, most people tend to wait until the age of 16 or 17 to start laser hair removal. Older people who develop white or gray hair will generally not respond effectively to the laser.
Is it painful?
Pain is very subjective and everyone’s pain tolerance is different. Generally, the laser treatment is described as a “snap” of a rubber band snap against the skin. Compared to waxing and electrolysis, the treatment has very little discomfort. Some people do require a topical anesthetic to numb the skin prior to the treatment. If you feel you require the topical anesthetic, the physician on staff at Physicians Laser Centers can prescribe a topical cream that will numb the skin prior to treatment. Our experience suggests that the topical cream is necessary for men’s beards and occasionally areas where the hair is dark and course.
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