The laser is one of the most advanced systems available for removing unwanted hair effectively. While electrolysis is quite time consuming, this laser treatment can remove the hair faster with less discomfort for the patient. The area of the size being treated will determine the length of the treatment, generally ranging from a few minutes to over an hour. The laser pulses long enough to penetrate the hair follicles, heating them up and hindering its growth.

Shaving, waxing, plucking and depilatory creams can only be a temporary solution to remove unwanted hair on the body. For many years, electrolysis seemed to be the only permanent hair removal option. We use the new GentleLASE system in our office. The system safely removes hair without damaging any of the surrounding tissues or pores. Smaller areas, such as facial areas or the bikini line, can be treated with the GentleLASE system in less than 10 minutes while larger areas take a longer period of time.

Multiple treatments are necessary for permanent hair reduction. Final reduction can range from 80-98% clearance. The number of treatments range from 4-6 with 5-6 weeks in between each session. Some patients require more or less treatments, depending on the amount of hair that is present. Some people may have a lower percentage of reduction due to lighter, thinner hair. There is a separate fee for each treatment session. Following a treatment, a patient may experience redness and mild swelling at the treated site lasting anywhere from 1-3 days. This is a temporary occurrence that will subside. The treated areas may feel like a sunburn for several days. There is a possibility of temporary pigmentation changes of the skin that may occur with this procedure, either a lighter or darker discoloration, which usually resolves within a couple of days to several months. The laser has a coolant that is built in that provides comfort and is often enough for pain relief. With each laser pulse, the patient will experience a burst of cooling spray followed by a warm “quick snap” which is comparable to a mild rubber band snap. This sensation is the actual heat being absorbed by the hair follicle. A topical anesthetic is also available at the clinic for pain relief, ElaMax (or LMX 4) and should be applied according to the directions on the label. It is acceptable to shave in between treatments. Waxing, tweezing and plucking should be discontinued 4-6 weeks before starting laser treatments and also in between treatments. At least 2-4 days of growth should be present at the time of treatment. Ingrown hairs will also be targeted by the laser and will eventually be removed by either exfoliation of the skin or break down and absorption by the body. The number of ingrown hairs will decrease after the first couple of treatments. Patients have different expectations and may proceed with as many touch-ups as needed to obtain desired results.