The Procedure:
Laser hair removal is usually performed in a series of at least 5-9 treatments spaced anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks apart. The exact schedule for each patient will vary depending on density, color, and texture of hair, as well as skin tone. The spacing between each session will also change as treatments progress. Prior to a laser hair removal treatment, some patients have a numbing cream applied. The patient then relaxes as Dr. Nguyen directs the laser light at the area of unwanted hair. This light is attracted to the melanin in the hair follicle, heating it and creating scar tissue directly around it, thus blocking any further hair growth. Once a specific follicle is affected, no hair will ever grow there, but because hair grows in stages, not every follicle is affected during any one treatment. This is why it is necessary for the procedure to be performed in a series of treatments.

Time Required to perform:
It can take around 15 minutes or over an hour to perform laser hair removal. Time requirements vary depending on the size of the treatment area, hair color and skin tone. Dr Nguyen should be able to provide you with a time estimate during your initial consultation.

Side Effects:
Laser hair removal side effects do not always occur, and are quite temporary when experienced. Expected reactions include slight redness in the area of treatment. This may be accompanied by mild swelling or bumpiness, similar to a sunburn. These side effects will remain local, typically lasting for just a few hours, and at most for 2-3 days. As with any cosmetic procedure, reactions are unique to each individual patient. During your initial consultation, you and your laser specialist should discuss the potential side effects that are unique to your situation.

Risks:
With laser hair removal risks are limited to a slight chance of scarring, but are very rare. In some cases, mainly for patients with darker complexions, there runs a risk of pigmentation changes.

Duration of Results:
After the completion of a custom-designed package of laser hair removal, results are permanent. It is possible for new hair follicles to form sporadically in the future, requiring minor touch-ups. Dr. Nguyen will design the most effective treatment package for your unique needs.

Recovery:
The laser hair removal recovery period is virtually non-existent! There is no "downtime" required after a treatment since it involves just minimal side effects. Most patients go right from their laser hair removal session to work, daily errands, school, or the gym. There are precautions to take after a laser hair removal treatment. Patients should avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Also, it's suggested that patients refrain from shaving for about 4 days after treatment. Once the next round of hair grows back, patients should refrain from any hair removal methods that pull the hair out at the root (no tweezing or waxing). Also, irritating topical medications or chemicals (i.e. astringents or Retin-A™) should be avoided, both before and after treatment.

Insurance:
Due to the cosmetic nature of laser hair removal, insurance usually does not apply.

Discomfort Level:
Laser hair removal discomfort varies depending on a patient's threshold for pain and on the area being treated. Laser hair removal might prove to be more painful in delicate facial or body areas than in larger, fleshier regions of the body. Most laser hair removal patients do report a mild stinging sensation.

Anesthesia:
Laser hair removal treatments need-not be performed with anesthesia. However, we offer topical numbing cream to be applied before the treatment. The use of laser hair removal anesthesia is dependent upon the patient's needs and the area being treated.

Also Known As:
Hair Removal by Laser. Hair Removal. Permanent Hair Removal. Permanent Laser Hair Removal.