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Laser Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal

Also known as a Permanent Hair Removal

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses laser light, an intense, pulsating beam of light, to remove unwanted hair. The procedure works by passing a light beam through the skin. The laser targets dark pigment, called melanin, in hair. When the light beam hits the hair follicle (where hair growth originates), the intense heat destroys the hair follicle. In most cases, laser removal slows hair re-growth, but it takes several treatments to provide an extended “hair-free” period. In most cases, minimal pain is experienced and no anesthesia is required.

Laser hair removal is more than just ”zapping” unwanted hair. It is a medical procedure that requires training to perform and carries potential risks. If you are planning on undergoing laser hair removal, you should limit plucking, waxing, and electrolysis for six weeks before treatment. That’s because the laser targets the hairs’ roots, which are temporarily removed by waxing or plucking.

What to expect during the Laser Hair Removal procedure?

Just before the procedure, your hair that will be undergoing treatment will be trimmed to a few millimeters above the skin surface. The laser equipment will be adjusted according to the color, thickness, and location of your hair being treated as well as your skin color. Depending on the laser or light source used, you and the technician will need to wear appropriate eye protection. It will also be necessary to protect the outer layers of your skin with a cold gel or special cooling device. This will help the laser light penetrate the skin.

Next, the technician will give a pulse of light to the treatment area and watch the area for several minutes to make sure the best settings were used and to check for bad reactions. When the procedure is completed, you may be given ice packs, anti-inflammatory creams or lotions, or cold water to ease any discomfort. You may schedule your next treatment four to six weeks later. You’ll get treatments until hair stops growing.

What to expect during the recovery for Laser Hair Removal?

For a day or two afterward, the treated areas of the skin will look and feel like it’s sunburned. Cool compresses and moisturizers may help. If your face was treated, you can wear makeup the next day unless your skin is blistering.

Over the next month, your treated hair will fall out. Wear sunscreen for the following month to help prevent temporary changes in the color of the treated skin. Blisters are rare but are more likely in people with darker complexions. Other potential side effects are swelling, redness, and scarring. Permanent scarring or changes in skin color are rare.

Examples of Laser Hair Removal Results:

Before and After of Laser hair removal

To find out more about available treatments and procedures, request a consultation with Dr. Moulton-Barrett at one of his Bay Area offices. Board certified plastic surgeon Rex Moulton-Barrett, M.D., offers advanced care and procedures for Bay Area residents. He has offices in Alameda and Brentwood, CA.

To schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Rex Moulton-Barrett

ALAMEDA OFFICE

BRENTWOOD OFFICE

Alameda Location:

2070 Clinton Ave, Alameda, CA 94501

510-864-1800

Brentwood Location

1280 Central Blvd, Suite J-5, Brentwood, CA 94513

925-240-8775