At our offices in Rochester, also serving Buffalo and Syracuse, laser hair removal is used to remove unwanted hair from multiple areas of the face and body.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a series of treatments that gradually reduce the hair in an area until there is virtually no hair that remains. Treatments are generally 1 month apart for 6 – 8 months in most individuals.
Benefits Of Laser Hair Removal
There are many benefits to having unwanted hair removed through the use of laser therapy. They include the following:
- Hair is precisely targeted
- Procedure is quick
- Results are permanent (for 90 percent of patients) or long-lasting
For many patients, laser hair removal is painless, although some experience minor discomfort, usually described as something like a rubber band’s snapping against the skin.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment Areas
Common areas treated on the face include:
- upper lip
- chin
- cheeks
Common areas treated on the body include:
- under arms
- the bikini area
- back
- legs
- toes
Candidates For Laser Hair Removal
An ideal laser hair removal candidate has dark hair and light colored skin. It’s best to choose a time when avoiding sun exposure to minimize risks of unwanted side effects.
Individuals with lighter hair may need more treatments to achieve desired results.
Darker skinned individuals with dark hair can also be treated with special care on an individual basis.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment Process
We like to use the example of a lightning rod. The area is best treated after shaving. The laser is used to deliver energy in the form of light that delivers the energy down the hair shaft to the live hair follicle below the skin. This gradually reduces the ability for that hair follicle to form a healthy hair. Hair becomes finer. Fewer and fewer hairs grow, until finally, nearly none at all.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Treatments Do I Need?
This varies by area and from person to person. Generally 6 – 8 treatments will get many individuals to “maintenance”. Once an area has reached maintenance, it is recommended to come back every 6 months for a treatment to maintain a hair-free state. Some people need even less.
Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?
There is a permanent reduction in hair growth in the area treated. Again, this varies from person to person.
Side Effects Of Laser Hair Removal
There can be side effects. Most are due to sun exposure, so this should be avoided. Concurrent use of other treatments can also affect the treatment area.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Every person considering laser hair removal receives a consult to assess your health history for safety. Eye protection is used to prevent eye injury from the bright laser light.
Read what our patients are saying!
Dr. Davenport, Thank you for your expertise, your knowledge, your compassion and most of all for just being you. You truly are a gift to the medical world. As your patient, you make me feel safe in your care. Thank you.
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Schedule A Consultation
Contact our board-certified plastic surgeons serving Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse to schedule your consultation and see if Laser Hair Removal is right for you.