Laser Hair Reduction Q&A
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The laser hair reduction system uses a near-infrared laser light that damages hair follicles as it is absorbed by pigment within the hair follicle.
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Laser hair reduction can remove hair from all parts of the body including the face, legs, arms, underarms, back, nipples, chest, and bikini line.
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Hairs cycle through three phases: growth, regression, and resting. Laser hair reduction is most effective on hairs that are in the growth phase and hairs will enter this phase at different times. For this reason, permanent hair reduction requires an average of six to eight laser treatments to catch each hair in a given area during its growth cycle, although individual results may vary. Hair thickness, genetics, and the area being treated are other factors that affect the number of required treatments.
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The size of the area being treated determines how long the procedure takes. During the procedure, you may feel the mild sensation of tiny, hot rubber bands snapping against the skin, however, skin cooling with ice packs and cold air often make the treatment virtually painless. Prescription strength numbing cream is also available, especially for treatment of sensitive areas.
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After a laser hair reduction treatment, your skin may be mildly red and/or swollen for a few hours. Proper UV protection and a gentle skin care regimen are highly encouraged after your laser treatment for optimal results. In between treatments, shaving or trimming hairs is okay, but you should not wax or pluck.
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Hair laser works by targeting the dark pigment (melanin) in the shaft and base of the hair follicles. For this reason, grey, white, blonde and red hair rarely respond to laser treatments.
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Laser hair reduction can safely and effectively treat all skin types and body parts. However, laser settings are carefully adjusted for patients with melanin rich skin to minimize the risk of damage to the outer layer of skin.