5 Facts You Need to Know About Laser Hair Reduction

With summer fast approaching, it’s time to pull out the shorts, skirts, and tank tops that have been hibernating all winter and start showing some skin. For most of us, it’s also the season for the razor burn and irritation that go along with regular shaving and waxing. Whether your problem hairs occur on your legs, armpits, bikini line, or face, laser hair reduction could be the perfect solution for you. If you are considering having your unwanted hair removed with laser hair reduction, here are some important facts to know before you set up your appointment.

1. Your Treatment Will Depend on a Number of Factors

As with almost any cosmetic procedure, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment when it comes to laser hair reduction. The type of laser used and how high or low it is set will depend on a large degree of factors like your skin tone, the coarseness of your hair, and even your age. If it is done wrong, your treatment could result in skin discoloration or faster hair growth, so it’s best to rely on an expert who knows how to perform the treatment safely. Dr. Vargas and her experienced staff have the tools and knowledge needed to ensure that your treatment will be safe and effective.

2. Expect as Many as Eight Visits for Maximum Effectiveness

Hair grows in cycles, and laser therapy can only target hair that is actively growing. This means that you will need to come back for six to eight treatments to experience the most hair reduction possible. Some patients notice a difference in hair growth after as few as two treatments, but the majority of people need a few more visits for a noticeable difference, and the occasional patient may need as many as twelve treatments.

3. Each Visit is Quick, Easy, and Almost Painless

While any kind of treatment that involves lasers sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, the actual procedure is fairly simple and shouldn’t hurt much. The average treatment lasts about 20-30 minutes, depending on how much hair needs to be treated, and you may even be able to read a book while it’s going on!

4. So What Does ‘Almost Painless’ Really Mean?

Because every patient is different, it is difficult to quantify the level of discomfort you may feel at each treatment. Some patients report a burning or stinging sensation during the actual procedure, but many others only feel a mild warmth. Your skin shouldn’t hurt at all after the procedure, but a slight irritation or itching could occur for a few hours afterward. If you find that your first laser treatment is more uncomfortable than you expected, taking an OTC painkiller about half an hour before your next treatment should help.

5. The Average Patient Sees 70%-100% Reduction in Hair

Laser hair reduction therapy specifically targets dark hairs, so while your darkest and most noticeable hairs will effectively be removed, a soft and fine down of blonde hairs may be left behind. Your hair may eventually begin to grow back, but yearly maintenance visits should keep any possible regrowth at bay.

Laser hair reduction shouldn’t be frightening! A qualified professional will give you all the answers to your most pressing questions and guide you down the path to the right treatment for you. You’ll be enjoying silky smooth, hairless skin in no time!