Laser Hair Removal

Latest update: July 14, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Trent MD, FAAD
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Laser hair removal treatments damage the hair follicles to reduce the amount of hair growth. It can treat areas such as the legs, back, underarms, and face. Laser hair removal does not eliminate hair but reduces hair growth by 70%. The treatment targets the pigment melanin in the hair follicles and does not affect the surrounding skin. Patients should notice less hair after just two sessions.

The treatment is most suitable for fair-skinned candidates with dark hair. Some dermatologists specialize in darker skin and use particular devices for safer removal.

Candidates prone to cold sores should take antiviral medication before treatment. Laser hair removal is not recommended for patients who are pregnant or have eczema. Candidates with tattoos should ensure the laser device does not come into contact with their ink as it could damage the tattoo.

A wide variety of laser hair removal lasers are available.
One example is the LightSheer Duet diode laser. This can be used on all skin tones and is less painful than other lasers as it includes suction technology to minimize discomfort. Doctors prefer using Nd:YAG and diode lasers on patients with darker skin because they are safer.

Before hair removal, patients must stop waxing, tweezing, and plucking their hair for six weeks because the laser needs to target actively growing hairs in the follicles. Twenty-four hours before the treatment, patients need to shave the targeted area. Patients should also avoid sun exposure and caffeine to reduce discomfort during the removal. 

Right before the procedure, patients can request a numbing cream. The process may take up to an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area. The doctor will choose the most suitable laser device based on the patient's skin type and medical history.

Patients need to wear protective eyewear during the treatment.   Patients may feel a slight snapping sensation during the procedure. For smoother recovery, patients should wear an SPF of 30 daily and moisturize adequately. Six to eight sessions, performed every 4-8 weeks, are recommended for optimal results. Yearly maintenance sessions are required for long-lasting results.
Anesthesia
n/a
Operation Time
depends on treatment
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
depends on treatment
Recovery Period
depends on treatment
Invasiveness
no

Laser hair removal: What to expect

This video from the American Academy of Dermatology talks us through laser hair removal and what to expect. Dr. Carolyn I. Jacob, a dermatologist, explains who it works best on. She talks about the advances that have been made. She describes the preparation that's required. Dr. Jacob talks about the procedure itself and what to expect afterward.

Watch this before getting laser hair removal!

YouTuber, LizzyFay, answers our questions about Laser Hair Removal. At her session at Lapiel Laser Center, Chicago, LizzyFay meets with Nurse Practitioner, Catalina Ruiz. They discuss what the pulses feel like and talk about what happens in a session. LizzyFay describes what she has experienced so far and gives feedback about the process and procedure. Any additional questions? LizzyFay meets up with Arianna Gaytan to talk about other aspects of the treatment.