Do You Need Laser Hair Removal? Things to Know About the Procedure

by Dr. Steven Wallach

Are you sick of tweezing and shaving unwanted body hair? Are you tired of the discomfort caused by waxing? You have probably considered laser hair removal, yet you have not made up your mind if it is the solution you need or if it is even worth your money. Here are some things you need to know about laser hair removal in Manhattan.

Hair can re-grow after treatment.

Laser hair removal, as what most laser centers claim, permanently removes hair. Laser merely slows down the re-growth of hair. However, in case hair re-grows, it is usually lighter and finer so it is less noticeable and no longer bothersome. You can help ensure that the treatment will yield good results by not waxing, plucking, or having electrolysis six weeks before the procedure. You will need the root of the hair during laser removal, and these methods temporarily remove the roots.

The color of the skin and hair matter.

Since the laser targets pigment, your skin and hair color will matter. The best results are seen on people who have light skin as well as dark hair. Dark hair stands out when the skin is light, making it easy for the laser to target it. For optimal results, avoid sun exposure six weeks before treatment. Also, be sure to put on sunscreen every day.

It requires several (and ongoing) treatments.

Permanent hair reduction cannot be achieved in a single treatment. You need multiple treatments to see optimal results. Additional treatments are also needed when hair starts to re-grow. About four to six treatments, done every six to eight weeks, are needed to see desired results. Follow-up treatments every six to twelve months help maintain smooth and hair-free skin.

Very minimal discomfort is felt during the procedure.

Here at our Manhattan laser hair removal practice, we use the BBL technology. You may feel some warmth during treatments and the sensation of a rubber band snapping. But due to the built-in cooling system, discomfort is very minimal and a topical anesthetic is usually not needed. If you would like more information about laser hair removal, please do not hesitate to contact our Manhattan office at 212-861-6400. You can also fill out this online contact form to get in touch with us.