If you are tired of reaching for the razor on a regular basis and would love to find a more permanent solution to your personal grooming needs, laser hair removal may be right for you. Here is what you should know before investing in laser hair removal treatment.
Why Choose Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a safe, long-term solution for both men and women. Hair can be removed from a variety of body parts ranging from legs and bikini line, chest and back hair, to facial hair on the lips, chin or cheeks. Its enduring results and minimal side effects make it superior to other methods of hair removal for those people who wish to streamline their regular beauty and grooming routine.
For example, shaving cuts hair at a sharp angle just above the skin, which means the hair resurfaces almost immediately. For many people, this requires the aggravation of daily shaving. Tweezers are a less-than-ideal solution for removing hair from smaller areas on the face, since plucking stray hairs on the chin or neck may lead to redness, plus the uncomfortable and unsightly condition of ingrown hairs. Waxing, which pulls hair out from the root, can be painful and involves frequent sessions for this temporary fix. Laser hair removal solves all of these issues.
Keep in mind that the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a board-certified dermatologist for this procedure, since he or she has an in-depth knowledge of the skin and the experience necessary to perform the procedure safely.
How It Works
At Windsor Dermatology, we customize our laser hair removal treatment settings for each individual based on skin tone, color of hair, and location of treatment. Lasers can safely be used on most parts of the body, although the eye area must be avoided.
First, a cool gel is applied to the treatment area. Next, a board-certified dermatologist guides a hand-held laser instrument over the skin. This device pulses and releases beams of light that target the dark pigment in the hair follicles, thus destroying the follicles permanently. Since the hair directly absorbs the light, the surrounding skin remains undamaged. A mild snapping sensation may be felt during the pulses.
The duration of each session depends upon the size of the body part being treated. Since hair follicles are in various stages of growth, several sessions spaced apart are necessary to target as many follicles as possible. Treatments are performed once per month. Occasionally, some hair may regrow, requiring maintenance treatments from time to time.
The cost of the treatment is based on the size of the body part that is being treated. Individual results vary depending upon factors such as the color of your skin and hair, and the contrast between them.
How To Prepare for Treatment
To achieve the best results for laser hair removal, it is important to follow the below tips for maximum safety and effectiveness:
- Shave your skin with a new razor prior to your appointment.
- Refrain from plucking or waxing for several weeks before your laser treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure and steer clear of self-tanners for several weeks beforehand to increase the maximum contrast between hair and skin.
After treatment, you may experience minor skin irritation such as slight redness, but this should disappear within a few hours. If you wish, you may use cold compresses to soothe the skin. You should avoid sun exposure and salt water for a short time after your session, and follow any instructions issued by your doctor.
If you are considering laser hair removal, contact Windsor Dermatology in East Windsor, New Jersey to schedule a consultation. Our experienced professionals offer laser treatments for your unwanted hair that can provide you with smooth, lasting, hairless skin. Call the office today at 609-443-4500, or request an appointment online.
