Hair Reduction

Expected results

• The percentage of hairs removed per session varies by location on the body, with thinner-skinned areas (e.g., armpits and bikini area) generally responding better than thick-skinned areas (e.g., back and chin).
• About 10 percent to 25 percent reduction in hair growth can be expected with each treatment.
• The hair that regrows following treatment tends to be lighter and finer in texture.

How Does It Work?

Laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) devices send specific concentrated beams of light through the skin that are absorbed by the melanin (dark) pigment present in the hair follicle shafts. Because hair grows in cycles, repeated treatments are necessary to destroy the hair follicles. In general, three or more treatments are required to achieve hair growth reduction.

Will it work for me?

Darker hair responds best to laser hair removal. Lighter-colored hair is the least responsive, but topical medications can be used to increase effectiveness. Be sure to avoid tanning or sunless tanners and to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen for up to six weeks before treatment.

Are there any side effects?

The most common side effects include discomfort, swelling, and redness over three days. Other possible side effects include blistering, herpes simplex outbreaks, bacterial infections, and temporary skin lightening or darkening (especially in patients with skin of color or those with tans). Patients are instructed to avoid sun exposure and to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher following the procedure.