Laser hair removal is an effective solution for the permanent reduction of unwanted facial and body hair. It can be used to remove hair from almost anywhere on the body -- the upper lip, face, underarms, legs, bikini line, shoulders, chest, nipples and back.

Procedure:
The Alexandrite laser releases rapid pulses of energy that penetrate the skin and are drawn to the pigmentation of dark hair follicles. Those follicles selectively absorb and are destroyed by the laser energy, leaving surrounding tissue minimally affected. The procedure can also be used to treat certain hair-related medical conditions, including ingrown hairs, excessive hair growth and polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Because the laser is attracted to dark pigment in the hair follicle, prime candidates for treatment with the Alexandrite laser are individuals with fair skin and dark hair. Those with very dark or tanned skin, or blonde or gray hair are not good candidates for the procedure. However, people with darker skin tones can be treated with intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments.

Laser hair removal is not intended for removing all hair permanently, but it does significantly reduce the quantity, thickness and pigmentation level of hairs that regenerate in treated areas.

To prepare for the laser hair removal treatment, avoid plucking, waxing, bleaching, electrolisis, excessive sunlight, and using cream depilatories or peroxide in the areas to be treated. Side effects, though rare, can include skin irritation, skin pigmentation that fades over time, and mild inflammation. Redness on the treated area is normal and usually fades within 24 hours.

Treatment Duration:
Treatment sessions vary depending on the surface area being treated and amount of hair being removed. Several treatments are usually necessary to achieve the desired results, as the laser is only effective on hairs that are in the growing phase. Subsequent sessions at monthly intervals allow for the regrowth of the hairs that were previously in the resting phase.

Anesthesia:
Laser hair removal is somewhat painful (similar to the sensation of a rubber band flicking the skin), but the discomfort diminishes with each subsequent treatment. The laser has a cooling device, which helps reduce the pain. To minimize discomfort, a topical local anesthetic cream may be applied to certain treatment areas 45 minutes prior to the procedure.

After Care:
After treatment, activities can resume as normal. You may be prescribed skin care products or regimens specially formulated for your skin type following laser treatments. The use of sunscreen will also be required on any areas exposed to the sun. Tanning and/or overexposure to the sun should be avoided before and during your treatment cycle.

To find out if you are a candidate for laser hair removal, call our patient services representative at 650-330-5921 to schedule a consultation.