Laser hair removal (LHR) has grown in popularity over the past couple of years, especially with year-round warm Florida weather. Hair-free backs, legs, and bikini lines are trending, and laser hair removal is the best way to obtain a permanent result. At Azul® Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Spa, we offer LHR treatments for anyone wanting smooth skin in a comfortable setting. We offer LHR at our Azul locations in Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, Naples, and Sarasota.
Ideal Laser Hair Removal Candidates
Ideal candidates for laser hair removal are those with darker hair and light skin who want a smoother, hair-free surface. Since the treatment targets the pigment in the hair follicle, the results may not be as effective for those with light hair and fair skin. Patients should ensure they do not have an active tan on the skin, as the laser can target the pigment within and cause discomfort during the procedure.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a treatment that destroys the hair follicle from within, compromising its ability to grow. This treatment has come a long way in the past couple of years, now being safer and faster, even for patients with darker skin tones. Laser hair removal can be used for various areas, even the larger ones. Most patients use it to remove the hairs from their back and chest along with their arms and legs, but it can also be used to reduce facial hair.
When getting your laser hair removal treatment, you should adhere to the following instructions. Do not wax or pluck the hair for at least two weeks, as the root needs to be present in the hair follicle for the treatment to work. Patients may shave the area, so the laser can efficiently reach and destroy the follicles.
We use the Sciton diode laser, which targets the pigment in the follicle, turning the light into heat to destroy the hair-generating stem cells. Once the follicle bulb has been destroyed, it should be unable to continue its growth cycle. Keep in mind that a series of treatments spread at least two weeks apart may be needed as the hair grows in different phases.
The treatment can last for as little as 15 minutes, as advanced technologies are used to address the issue. Once the hair stops growing, you should no longer have to deal with unpleasant effects like razor burns, ingrown hairs, or pain from shaving or waxing. Hair removal through laser can spare the time and effort you need to obtain smooth skin, giving you a confidence boost.
Recovery and Aftercare
While laser hair removal is a minimally invasive procedure, some recovery time is to be expected. The most common side effects are slight redness and potential swelling, which usually fade within 24 hours. Sensitive areas like the bikini line might bring slightly more discomfort, but the new cool tip technology keeps it at a minimum.
To minimize post-treatment discomfort, you should take special care of the treated area for the next one to two days after the treatment. Stay away from direct sunlight and avoid stepping into hot baths and saunas. Lakes, swimming pools, and oceans must also be avoided for 48 hours. Try not to wear tight-fit clothing, as applying pressure on the treated area is not recommended. Until the skin heals, you should avoid tanning beds as well.
Preparation can also affect recovery, so it is important to follow all pre-treatment recommendations. Laser hair removal is performed on clean skin, so you shouldn’t be wearing any cream or lotion. This can reduce the efficiency of the laser while causing different complications. If you are taking any medicine (e.g., blood thinners or acne medicine), you should clear it with your doctor or our providers during your consultation before getting the treatment.
Results to Expect
Results often depend on the number of treatments that you get and how much hair you have. One session can reduce up to 25 percent of hair in the treatment area. Most patients will need around four to six sessions, the first results being visible in about one week. It can take a couple of weeks to notice the final results, and as hair grows in cycles, around 10 percent is expected to “escape” the laser. That said, even if some of the follicles manage to heal to some extent, the hairs should be much thinner and lighter. If they begin to darken or become bothersome again, you may want to consider a maintenance treatment. Final laser hair removal results are long lasting.
