Laser hair removal is a simple, fast, and safe way to get rid of unwanted hair on the face and body. The procedure removes the need for shaving, waxing, and plucking by using a laser light to target and destroy hair follicles that produce new hair growth.
A laser hair removal machine emits a beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in your hair, which then converts into heat. This heat damages the hair follicles, which causes them to stop producing new hair, and it also slows down future hair growth so that any regrowth is finer and lighter in color.
The laser hair removal device used is selected based on the type of skin and hair being treated, and it is important to work with an experienced board-certified dermatologist who can assess your medical history and recommend the best device for you. The most popular machines are the Ruby, IPL, Alexandrite, and Nd: YAG lasers.
Before a laser hair removal treatment laser hair removal Memphis TN, the area will be cleaned and you may choose to have a topical anesthetic applied if you’re worried about discomfort. It’s best to avoid sun exposure a few days before your appointment, as laser treatment can’t be performed on tanned skin. It’s also important to refrain from shaving, tweezing, or using depilatory creams in the area being treated.
Your doctor will press a handheld device against your skin and then trigger the laser to start the process of destroying the hair follicles. Depending on the size of the area being treated, your session may last just a few minutes for small areas like the upper lip, or it might take up to an hour for larger areas, such as the back.
Once the laser has targeted the hair follicles, you’ll notice that the hairs begin to fall out within a few days after your treatment. Over the next four to 12 months, you’ll continue to have reduced hair growth and regrowth. Any regrowth that occurs is usually finer and lighter in color than the original strands of hair.
For the most permanent results, you’ll need to have a series of laser hair removal treatments at least four to 10 weeks apart. During your consultation at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in the Upper East Side, Manhattan, she will help you establish a treatment schedule that meets your needs and achieves your cosmetic goals.