Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal frequently asked questions
Laser hair removal video

LASER HAIR REMOVAL - the safe, effective, convenient alternative treatment for permanent hair removal. Traditional techniques such as shaving, plucking and waxing provide only “temporary” relief. Electrolysis can be painful, time consuming and limited to small cosmetic areas. Side effects such as allergic reactions, ingrown hairs and scarring are all common when using the traditional hair removal methods. Laser hair removal is now chosen more often than any other method because of the benefits it offers.

 Benefits of Laser Hair Removal:

• Laser hair removal is FDA approved
• Laser hair removal is fast and affordable
• Laser hair removal is convenient
• Laser hair removal is effective on all body areas
• Laser hair removal leaves your skin “smooth”
• Laser hair removal is non-invasive and non-chemical

 Laser Hair Removal Frequently Asked Questions:

What is “Laser Hair Removal?” By targeting the “melanin” in the hair follicle, as the laser pulses are absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle, the light destroys the hair and disables the follicle. A small hand-piece is placed near the skin and “pulses” from the laser do the work. A “dynamic” cooling device is “built-in” to protect the skin and ensure your comfort during treatment.

What areas can be treated? The most commonly treated areas include the upper lip, bikini area, underarms, chest, back and legs.

Does the treatment hurt – are there side effects? Laser hair removal is safe, effective and there is very little discomfort. Our patients tell us they may feel a little “tingling or snapping sensation” – similar to a rubber band. There is no bleeding or open wound created. The “cooling system” also helps to reduce any discomfort. For very sensitive areas, an anesthetic cream may be used.

How “permanent” is laser hair removal? The results can last for years! Our laser treatments produce “long-term” improvement through progressive hair reduction. Once a satisfactory level of hair removal has been achieved, the results have proven to last for several years.

What precautions must I take to assure the best results?

• Avoid all forms of tanning for 4-6 weeks prior to treatment
• Use SPF 15 (or more) at all times
• Any/all cold sores must be healed prior to treatment
• Dark skinned patients may need to use a lightening cream prior to treatment.

What’s the difference between “hirsutism” and “hypertrichosis?” Hirsutism is defined as “increased” hair on skin areas in both men and women. Increased refers to extra, unwanted hair in areas such as the chin, upper lip, sideburn area, neck, chest, abdomen and pubic region as well as the upper thighs. These show up as dark, stiff “terminal” hairs and/or very light, fine – barely visible hairs called “vellus.” Almost all women concerned about increased hair growth have “hirsutism.” The normal amount of body hair varies widely among women. When these coarse, dark hairs grow on women where they typically have not grown dark hair – this condition normally causes concern! There are different causes for hirsutism that can be discussed with Dr. Covey. Whatever the cause may be – we can safely - effectively treat this condition for you.

Hypertrichosis refers to extra hair on other areas such as the forehead and upper cheeks (anywhere in prepubertal children) are not caused by testosterone. Hair on the forearms and lower legs can be hormonal or non hormonal. Mild hypertrichosis is the most common. More than mild is very uncommon.

Are there “ethnic” variations in facial and body hair? Yes. Asians (male and female) typically have relatively little extra hair growth. Blacks have fewer hairs than whites but the hair tends to be equally noticeable because it is dark and curly. African-Americans have another problem with excessive hair in that the curliness makes the hair more prone to becoming “ingrown” after removal. This can lead to pimple-like break outs termed PFB (pseudofolliculitis barbae.) As these lesions heal they can leave dark patches that do not fade completely. The proper treatment of hirsutism to reduce ingrown hairs is important to maintain smooth skin coloring. Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Greece are not as bothered by extra hair since it is more common in those parts of the world. However, the “Media” around the world projects beauty with smooth, hairless bodies and skin. So women with even average or slightly more than average hair growth…can be bothered and feel abnormal. Normal, then, is a personal matter based upon what an individual is comfortable with and which varies with ethnicity.

Whatever your level of concern is – we can safely and effectively handle it today using “state-of-the-art laser treatment.