Laser hair reduction is a procedure wherein a concentrated beam of light or laser is directed into the hair follicles in order to render them unable to produce hair. Absorbed by the hair’s pigment, the laser light converts into heat energy and causes controlled damage to follicles—the tube-like sacs responsible for hair growth.
Damaging hair follicles in this way either slows or outright prevents hair growth from the same region. In most cases, laser hair reduction doesn’t lead to permanent loss of that hair, but you can achieve long-lasting t hair reduction through repeated procedures in the same area.
Now that you have a general overview of how laser hair removal works, let’s go through a detailed discussion of what you can expect from the procedure and after your treatment.
Preparing for Laser Hair Reduction
During your initial consultation, our medical spa team will discuss your medical history and cosmetic goals to ascertain your candidacy for the procedure. We’ll also review the results of any past hair removal attempts. Based on your personal consultation, we will curate the ideal treatment plan and provide a detailed overview of preparatory steps, such as:
- Staying out of the sun
- Avoiding self-tanners or products that darken your skin
- Not removing hair by plucking, waxing, or electrolysis
- Avoiding blood-thinning medications and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Not trimming or shaving the region
The reason for these preparatory steps leading up to the laser hair reduction procedure is that the hair is in fact needed for the reduction process: the difference in color between the hair and your skin is what the laser focuses on during removal, so such things as self-tanners, excess sun exposure or tanning beds, would make that process more difficult and less effective.
The Laser Hair Reduction Procedure
A hand-held laser instrument is run along the treatment area. Once activated, energy from the laser seeps into your hair follicles. The heat generated from the laser damages the hair follicles, preventing or greatly slowing future hair growth. You may feel a pinprick sensation because of the laser energy. During treatment, the medspa will maximize your comfort and tolerance during the procedure using cooling techniques. The length of the procedure will depend on the size of the treatment area. For example, the lip region will take less time than the back.
After Laser Hair Reduction
You may experience some redness, itching, or slight discomfort for a short period after treatment, but this typically resolves within a few hours. You should avoid tanning beds and direct sunlight for several weeks, and should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, rated SPF 30 or higher, every day during recovery. Results are observable over the coming days or weeks. If you have any additional questions or would like a personal consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us to set up a free consultation.
