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How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal is a popular procedure that utilizes a concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair. During the treatment, our cutting-edge laser technology emits light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. As that light energy is converted to heat, it damages the follicles responsible for producing hairs. This effectively destroys the hair and causes future hair growth in the area to be prevented or delayed.

Typically, patients require approximately four to six laser hair removal treatments to achieve permanent results. However, hair that does grow back in the area tends to be finer and weaker, and the skin in the area is usually smoother.

Am I a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

What Should I Expect During My Laser Hair Removal Procedure?

Before your laser hair removal, numbing cream will be applied to help ensure you’re comfortable. The laser will then be directed onto the targeted treatment area. Its light will be absorbed by the hair follicles, which damages or disables them. Depending on the size of the area you are having treated, the laser hair removal process may take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. 

During the following one to two weeks, the portion of the hair that was below the skin will be pushed out. You’ll notice hairs shedding during this time. The remaining hair follicle remains inactive.

We will follow your treatment with several more, performed over a period of time, to ensure every follicle in the treatment area is addressed by the laser during its growth stage.

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Laser Hair Removal FAQ

Which areas of the body can be treated?

Is laser hair removal painful?

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Are there any side effects of laser hair removal?

Should I try at-home hair removal products?

Can laser hair removal help with ingrown hairs?

Is laser hair removal effective on hormonal hair growth (like PCOS)?

Can I wear makeup or apply skincare products after my treatment?

What happens if I miss a laser hair removal session?

Can I work out after a laser hair removal session?

Which areas of the body can be treated?

You can get laser hair removal everywhere except your eyelids. Some of the most popular areas are:

  • underarms
  • legs
  • chest
  • back
  • upper lip
  • bikini area

Is laser hair removal painful?

Most people describe the treatment by saying it feels like snapping a rubber band against the skin. If you have a lower pain tolerance, it may hurt.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

The results are permanent. However, in some cases, patients do need a touch-up appointment after 6-12 months.

Are there any side effects of laser hair removal?

The common side effects are swelling, redness and discomfort. More rarely, blistering, cold sore outbreaks, infections, and scarring can occur.

Should I try at-home hair removal products?

At-home hair removal products, such as waxing, creams and lotions, IPL hair removal devices, and other treatments can successfully remove unwanted hair. However, these treatments do not provide long-term, effective results the way that laser hair removal does.

Can laser hair removal help with ingrown hairs?

Yes, laser hair removal can significantly reduce or eliminate ingrown hairs. By targeting the hair follicle directly and minimizing hair regrowth, it helps prevent the hair from curling back into the skin—especially common in areas like the bikini line and beard region.

Is laser hair removal effective on hormonal hair growth (like PCOS)?

While laser hair removal cannot treat the underlying hormonal imbalance, it is often effective at managing excessive hair growth caused by conditions such as PCOS. However, patients may require more maintenance sessions to keep results consistent.

Can I wear makeup or apply skincare products after my treatment?

It’s best to avoid applying makeup, moisturizers, deodorant, or any perfumed products to the treated area for at least 24 hours after your session. This helps prevent irritation while your skin is sensitive post-treatment.

What happens if I miss a laser hair removal session?

Missing a session may delay your overall results, as laser hair removal is most effective during the hair's active growth phase. It's best to stay on schedule, but if you miss a session, just contact the clinic to reschedule promptly.

Can I work out after a laser hair removal session?

It’s recommended to avoid heavy exercise, saunas, or hot showers for 24 hours post-treatment. Sweating can irritate the treated area and increase the risk of redness or breakouts.

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