Laser Hair Removal

---

Good candidates are those looking for a long-term solution to reduce unwanted hair. This technology is effective across various types of skin and hair colors, although it works best on those with contrasting hair and skin colors.

You might notice hair reduction after the first treatment, but significant results typically require several treatments spaced out over several weeks to capture all hair growth phases.

Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person, but many experience long-lasting hair reduction for months or even years. Some individuals may require periodic touch-up treatments.

There is minimal downtime; most can resume daily activities immediately. Temporary redness and swelling may occur, but these should resolve within a few hours. 

Patients will wear protective eyewear during treatment. A hand-held laser device is used and adjusted according to the target hair’s color, thickness, and location. Most patients tolerate the procedure well and describe the sensation similar to that of a rubber band snapping against the skin or small bursts of heat. Most sessions last minutes to an hour, depending on the area treated.

• Wait at least 6 months post Accutane/isotretinoin use, as it may compromise the skin’s protective barrier.
• Wait at least 24 hours post neurotoxin or filler (injections may be done immediately after).
• If you are pregnant or nursing, please consult with your healthcare provider first.
• Certain autoimmune conditions, particularly those affecting the skin, may increase the risk of adverse reactions and can impair healing. Please consult with your healthcare provider first.
• If you have a history of keloid scars, you may be at higher risk for developing scars after laser treatment.
• Individuals with pacemakers, internal defibrillators, or a history of photo-sensitivity should avoid laser hair removal treatments, depending on the area being treated.
• Avoid medications that increase sensitivity to light (antibiotics) 5-7 days before your treatment. If you have prescription, consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing.
• Discontinue use of exfoliants, Retinol/Tretinoin, AHA/BHA products, or any other exfoliating products in the treatment area 3-5 days prior to each treatment.
• Shave the entire treatment area within 24 hours of your appointment. Do not wax, thread, tweeze, etc. for six weeks prior and in between sessions (shaving or trimming of hair may be resumed normally during the duration of treatments.) If the area is not cleanly shaved in larger areas, we will not be able to treat it.
• Remove reflective or metallic items like jewelry in the treatment area as these may cause injury or damage. If piercings cannot be removed, they will be avoided during treatment.
• Please try to avoid tanning and self/gradual self tanners for two weeks prior to all sessions.
• Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that cause excessive hair growth should be discussed with a healthcare provider first, as laser hair removal may be less effective or require more treatments.
• Laser hair removal should not be performed over tattoos as the laser can cause significant color changes.
• If the treatment area has compromised skin (dermatitis, sunburn, open wounds) or you are experiencing an active skin infection (cold sores), the procedure should be postponed until the condition is resolved.

• Immediately after your treatment, there may be some slight redness, swelling around the hair follicles, and mild discomfort similar to a sunburn. Cold compresses may be used to provide comfort during this time, as well as Vitamin E or Aloe Vera. 
• You may also notice the smell of burned hairs after your session. This is normal and will subside with cleansing.
• Makeup may be applied immediately after as long as skin integrity has not been compromised.
• While the skin is healing, avoid all of the following in the treatment area: aggressive exfoliants or scubs, Retinol/Tretinoin, AHA/BHA products, bleaching, shaving, rough cloths, loofahs, cleansing brushes, scented lotions or soaps, and perfumes/cologne. Do not rub or pick the treated area.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, sweating, heat, saunas, hot tubs, and swimming pools for at least 48 hours.
• The treated area is more prone to sunburn and pigmentation change for the first 1-2 weeks. Wear a hat or clothing that covers the treated area along with an SPF 30 or higher daily for at least two weeks, reapplying every 2 hours in direct sun exposure.
• Treated hairs can take up to 7-14 days to exfoliate from the follicle and may appear to be “growing” during this time, however it is not new growth. Once the hair has fully shed, you may be hair free for a few days or weeks leading up to your next treatment.
• Electrolysis, waxing, threading, tweezing, or sugaring is to continue to be avoided between sessions. Shaving or trimming of hair may be resumed normally during the duration of treatment.