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Laser Hair Removal Explained from Start to Finish

Laser Hair Removal For many of us, shaving was once something we desperately wanted the privilege of doing. Once that initial excitement wears off, we may find ourselves looking for any way we can to make hair removal more convenient. If you’ve entered this stage, you have a lot to gain by exploring the option of laser hair removal. We enjoy providing this service in our Manhattan dermatology office because we get to see first-hand how happy our patients are when they no longer have to reserve time in their busy life for grooming they’d rather not do.

What’s so convenient about laser hair removal?

Patients who undergo laser hair removal don’t have to do much at all to prepare for treatment. We suggest avoiding tanning booths and sunbathing prior to treatment to allow the skin and hair to reach optimal contrast. Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in hair, so the more tanned the skin is, the harder this may be. Once treatment begins, we simply schedule subsequent sessions about every 8 weeks. Sometimes, patients are able to stop shaving after their very first treatment.

How much does laser hair removal hurt?

Most patients are somewhat nervous about the discomfort they may feel during laser hair removal. Interestingly, the expectation that has been set is quite old. People who were treated with first-generation laser devices may have endured quite a bit more sensation during their sessions than one would feel today. This is great news! Laser hair removal doesn’t actually hurt. What you should anticipate is a snapping sensation from laser energy hitting hair follicles. That’s about it.

Pro Tip: a day or two before your laser hair removal treatment, shave the area that will be addressed. This shortens the length of hair through which laser energy must travel and therefore diminishes the sensation of heat that may be felt.

Should I expect permanent results from laser hair removal?

During laser hair removal treatments, two things happen. First, intense laser energy vaporizes the hairs that are in the follicles. Then, the heat from strands of hair transfers to the walls of each hair follicle. This disables the ability to continue producing hair. By the end of a series of treatments, the entire hair growth cycle is disrupted and follicles are permanently altered. At some point, sparse hair growth may occur. Individual hairs are usually much thinner due to the diminished function in hair follicles. If desired, a touch-up treatment can be performed to stop hair growth.

Get the smooth skin you want before summer. Schedule laser hair removal in our Manhattan office by calling 212.391.8600.

Posted in: Laser Procedures

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501 5th Ave Suite #604 | New York, NY 10017
Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30AM – 8PM
T. 212.391.8600 | F. 212.391.8601