The Ultimate Guide to Laser Hair Removal

Almost everyone has unwanted hair somewhere on their body. Unfortunately, traditional hair removal routines can be tedious, painful, and expensive over time. Shaving may last a day, waxing a couple of weeks, but none of them last forever – and therein lies the true beauty of laser hair removal.

At Infinity Med-I-Spa, we offer the best and most modern technology to ensure comfortable and effective treatments for achieving smooth, hair-free skin quickly, efficiently, and affordably. The Cynosure Apogee Elite laser contains two laser systems – a 755 nm Alexandrite laser and a high-powered 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser. By providing two different wavelengths, the Apogee Elite laser can be used to treat patients with all skin types. The addition of the YAG laser allows us to treat patients of darker skin types for excessive hair growth, especially on the face, armpits, and bikini lines. Patients with pseudofolliculitis (razor bumps) on the beard, face, or neck now have this option to consider. The Apogee laser also incorporates the use of the Smart Cool system by Cynosure, which helps cool down the heat from the laser source and makes it more comfortable for the patient.

Definition

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a laser – an intense, pulsating beam of light – to remove unwanted hair. During laser hair removal, a laser beam passes through the skin to an individual hair follicle. The intense heat of the laser damages the hair follicle, which inhibits future hair growth. Laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair. Although laser hair removal effectively slows hair growth, it doesn’t guarantee permanent hair removal. It typically takes several laser hair removal treatments to provide an extended hair-free period. Periodic maintenance treatments might be needed as well.

Why it’s Done

Laser hair removal is used to remove unwanted hair. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and bikini line. However, it’s possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area, except the eyelid or surrounding area. Hair color and skin type influence the success of laser hair removal. For example, laser hair removal is most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair because the laser beam targets the pigment (melanin) in the hair. However, advances in technology have made laser hair removal an option for people who have darker skin. Laser hair removal isn’t generally effective for white, gray, red, or blond hair – although treatment options for lighter hair continue to be investigated.

How to Prepare

Before laser hair removal, schedule a consultation with the doctor. The doctor will use this visit to:

• Review your medical history, including medication use
• Discuss risks, benefits, and expectations, including what laser hair removal can and can’t do for you
• Take photos to be used for before-and-after assessments and long-term reviews

At the consultation, be sure to discuss a treatment plan and related costs. Laser hair removal is typically an out-of-pocket expense. The doctor will also offer specific tips to prepare for laser hair removal. For example:

• Stay out of the sun. A tan increases the risk of side effects, such as skin lightening. If you have a tan – either from sun exposure or sunless tanning products – wait until the tan fades completely before undergoing laser hair removal. Some doctors recommend staying out of the sun for up to six weeks before laser hair removal.
• Avoid plucking, waxing, and electrolysis. These hair removal methods can disturb the hair follicle and interfere with laser hair removal.

Ask About Laser Hair Removal Today

Laser hair removal is an effective and safe procedure for achieving smooth, hair-free skin. The Apogee Elite laser, which we use at Infinity Med-I-Spa, provides the best and most modern technology for treating patients with all skin types. It can be used to remove hair from nearly any area, except for the eyelid and surrounding area. Although laser hair removal does not guarantee permanent hair removal, it effectively slows hair growth and provides an extended hair-free period. Before undergoing laser hair removal, be sure to schedule a consultation with your doctor and follow their specific instructions for preparation and aftercare.