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Laser hair removal is a popular technique of removing unwanted body hair that utilizes a highly concentrated beam of light to damage hair follicles and prevents them from growing hair. The treatment is non-invasive, hence safe and effective for most people. Matthew B Quan M.D., and his team can perform laser hair removal on almost any part of your body, including the face, legs, arms, underarms, and bikini area.
Determining your eligibility for laser hair removal
During your initial appointment at the Center for Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Surgery, your doctor will assess your skin and hair type. Laser hair removal works best on individuals with dark, coarse hair and lighter skin tones. If your skin type is too dark or too light, your doctor may recommend an alternative hair removal method. Next, the team will assess your medical history to determine if any underlying health conditions may interfere with the treatment. If you have a history of skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, or if you are taking medications that increase your sensitivity to light, such as antibiotics or acne medication, your provider may advise against laser hair removal. Additionally, if you have a history of skin cancer or other types of cancer, you may not be a good candidate for this treatment.
Preparing for a laser hair removal procedure
Before your appointment, your doctor or technician will provide you with specific instructions on preparing for the treatment. You may need to avoid sun exposure, self-tanning products, and certain medications that increase sensitivity to light. You may also need to shave the treatment area to ensure the laser can directly target the hair follicles. It is crucial to stay hydrated before and after the treatment to help minimize any potential side effects, such as redness or swelling. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment to avoid any irritation to the treated area.
What to expect during the procedure
During a laser hair removal procedure, your doctor will provide protective eyewear to wear throughout the treatment. The team will then use a handheld device to deliver intense pulses of laser light to the treatment area. You may experience a slight burning or stinging sensation as the laser focuses on the hair follicles, but this discomfort is typically minimal and brief. The duration of the treatment will depend on the size of the treatment area, with smaller areas, such as the upper lip taking only a few minutes, while larger areas, like the back, may take up to an hour.
After the treatment, you may notice mild redness or swelling in the area; it should subside within a short while. Your doctor or technician may recommend applying a cold compress or aloe vera gel to help soothe the skin. It would help to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen on the treated area after treatment to prevent further irritation or damage. Depending on the specifics of your treatment plan, you may need multiple sessions to achieve optimal results. Your doctor or technician will provide specific instructions on aftercare and follow-up appointments.
To explore the benefits of laser hair removal, call the Center for Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Surgery office or schedule an appointment online.
