Laser Hair Removal

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal is an aesthetic treatment that impedes the normal growth pattern of treated hair follicles. The process requires multiple treatments as well as occasional maintenance sessions.

To understand how laser hair removal works it helps to think about how your hair grows. Your body is covered in hair follicles. At the base of each follicle is a root where hair growth originates.

Those roots are nourished by a steady blood supply. Hair cells multiply and the growing strands are pushed up and out of the follicle, although your hair cells are dead before they exit each follicle. That growth pattern is cyclical, and each follicle goes through phases of active growth, transition, resting, and shedding.

Laser hair removal works by directing pulses of laser light to your skin, where it is attracted to the melanin in each hair. That light creates heat that damages the hair root, killing the hair and slowing or preventing regrowth.

What is it like to get laser hair removal?

Treatments are brief and can last anywhere from 15-30 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area. You recline on the treatment table or chair while your practitioner moves the treatment handpiece over the surface of your skin.

You may feel a sensation like the snap of a rubber band during each pulse, but the process is generally well-tolerated. If you have especially sensitive skin you can ask for a numbing cream to apply prior to your appointment time.

After your treatment, you may experience a slight stinging sensation, similar to a sunburn. Any discomfort eases quickly as your skin adjusts. Your practitioner estimates how many treatments you need to achieve optimal results.

Isn’t laser hair removal expensive?

There is an up-front cost associated with laser hair removal, but when you consider the long-term benefits, your perspective may shift. For one thing, all those razors, replacement blades, wax strips, depilatory creams, and trips to the salon add up.

There’s also the value of your time. Laser hair removal delivers lasting results with just a few brief treatment appointments. You regain the time spent on traditional hair removal efforts and ingrown hairs or razor rash.

If you have questions or concerns, call the office to schedule an appointment at Progressive Women’s Care today.