Ladies, remember that first time you shaved your legs and wind hit them? Fellows, remember how much cooler it was the first time you shaved off that beard? Now, what if we told you that you could save time shaving every day and still stay silky smooth (and cool)? That’s where laser hair removal comes in. At The Derm Group, our medical and aesthetic experts in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut can help you remove that unwanted body hair to get you ready for summer.
If you are interested in laser hair removal but need a rundown of how it works, here is what you need to know before your first appointment. Ask The Derm Group for information on risks, side effects, and whether laser hair treatment is the best choice for your skin and hair type.
Am I a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
Hair does not discriminate. Whether you are a man or a woman in any ethnicity or race, most of us have unwanted hair. That said, laser hair removal may or may not be the right fit for you. The lasers are attracted to pigment, so dark hair is best for this procedure to be most effective. White, blonde, or red-haired individuals will not likely get the results they are looking for.
Will it Permanently Remove Hair?
According to the FDA, laser hair treatments will greatly reduce the amount of unwanted hair you have, but not necessarily result in a permanent removal of hair. Hair that does grow back is usually finer and less noticeable. Through selective targeting of the melanin in hair follicles, it is intended to effect long-term or permanent reduction.
Before Your Appointment.
There are a few things you need to keep in mind before arriving at your laser hair removal appointment. Follow these simple guidelines for the best results:
- Keep your skin free of lotions, creams, self tanner, oils, or any other products. Clean skin please.
- Avoid the sun two weeks before your appointment
- Let us know about any medications beforehand. They may need to be out of your system weeks in advance.
- It’s OK to shave before your appointment, but no waxing, tweezing, or plucking. There needs to be a hair follicle for the lasers to remove it.
What to Expect During a Laser Hair Removal Appointment.
During the appointment, you will be given eye protection and you will need to expose the area being treated. A laser will be placed on the area of skin and will concentrate a beam of light to target the pigment in your hair. You might feel mild discomfort, like a small rubber band flicking on your skin. Depending on the area being treated, the appointment could take anywhere from five minutes to an hour.
After Your Appointment
Recovery is pretty simple and painless. You may have some mild redness, but it will resolve in minutes. You will need to limit your sun exposure, however. Be sure to wear sunblock and protective clothing, especially on the areas being treated. Skip your sweat-inducing work out or a trip to the sauna on that day as well. For the best results, you will need to make a series of appointments. It’s not a one-and-done kind of thing. Your dermatologist will make recommendations based on your specific needs.