Laser hair removal is a popular long-term option for removal of unwanted face or body hair. It can be performed on the face (upper lip, chin, forehead), arms, legs, underarm, bikini line, and other areas of unwanted hair growth. It is significantly better that other hair removal techniques like as electrolysis and waxing. With lasers,  fewer treatments provide longer lasting results. If the hair does grow back in the treated area, it is usually lighter, finer, and less noticeable.

In laser hair removal, light energy from the laser specifically targets the melanin or pigment within the hair itself, which causes the hair to heat up, and then damages the follicle and seals it shut. Hair can no longer grow from the damaged follicle.

The laser is highly precise. It selectively targets the hair follicles and leaves the adjacent skin undamaged. Each pulse treats several hair follicles in a fraction of a second. A small area on the face needs just a few minutes. Relatively large areas like the legs, back or arms may take 30-60 minutes per session.

It is not uncommon to experience some burning, stinging, or mild discomfort during the treatment. Mild skin redness may also occur in people with sensitive skin. Side effects can be reduced, and the effectiveness of the treatment can be increased by avoiding sun exposure for a few weeks before the procedure.

The treatments are not usually painful. Most people describe the sensation like a light pinch. Numbing the area with ice or a numbing cream can reduce discomfort. The treatments become progressively less painful as the hair becomes finer.

Laser hair removal is safe when performed by a board-certified dermatologist with specialized training in the use of laser devices on all skin types. Specifically, in darker or tanned skin, there is an increased risk of burning, discoloration or scarring. The choice of laser and the skill of the technician play a key role in the success and safety of the treatments.

The cost depends on the size of the treatment area and the number of sessions needed. It may seem expensive at first, but if you add up the money you spend on bikini waxes, razors, and creams every month, laser hair removal is a good investment.

For the procedure to be a success, you should to commit to a certain number of sessions, usually 3 to 8, with about 4 weeks between sessions.

Although, people with coarse hair are good candidates, the treatment can take a little longer to work on thick hair. What’s most important is that the laser hair removal is performed at a properly equipped facility by qualified personnel.

The treatment is easiest on light skin with dark hair because the laser can quickly identify and target the contrasting pigment in the hair follicle. However, with the right laser equipment and settings, darker skin types also benefit. Your dermatologist will choose the most appropriate laser for your skin color and hair texture.