Laser hair removal is a non-invasive procedure that uses specially designed laser devices, such as ones from Candella and Venus Concept, to damage hair follicles and reduce hair growth. Laser hair removal greatly reduces hair growth on virtually any part of the body. Long periods of greatly reduced hair growth and in some instances, permanent hair loss is achieved.

Laser hair removal is used to reduce unwanted hair. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, back and the bikini line. However, it’s possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area, except the eyelid or surrounding area.

A laser beam targets the pigment in hair follicles, heating them up and damaging them so they can’t grow back as easily. 

Laser hair removal can slow hair growth for a long time, but it doesn’t guarantee permanent hair removal. Most people need two to six sessions, and may need occasional maintenance. 

During laser hair removal, a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages the tube-shaped sacs within the skin (hair follicles) that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth. 

The technician will use specially designed hand-held laser instrument on your skin. Depending on the type of laser, a cooling device on the tip of the instrument or a cool gel might be used to protect your skin and lessen the risk of side effects.

When the doctor activates the laser, the laser beam will pass through your skin to the hair follicles. The intense heat from the laser beam damages the hair follicles, which inhibits hair growth. You might feel a sensation like a warm pinprick, and you’ll likely feel cold from the cooling device or gel.

Treating a small area, such as the upper lip, might take only a few minutes. Treating a larger area, such as the back, might take more than an hour.

Laser hair removal usually requires two to six treatments. The interval between treatments will vary depending on the location. On areas where hair grows quickly, such as the upper lip, the treatment might be repeated in four to eight weeks. On areas of slow hair growth, such as the back, the treatment might be every 12 to 16 weeks.

For each treatment you’ll wear special goggles to protect your eyes from the laser beam. An assistant might shave the site again if necessary. The doctor might apply a topical anesthetic to your skin to reduce any discomfort during treatment.

Book a consultation with your local medspa810 to find out more about our laser hair removal options!