Laser Hair Removal

How does Laser Hair Removal work?

Highly controlled flashes of laser beams are selectively absorbed by hair follicles lying below the surface of the skin. The absorbed light heats the hair, which damages and destroys the re-growth potential of the follicle all without damaging surrounding tissue. Hair follicles are usually in different growth cycles at different times in relation to one another. Since the follicle must be in active growth in order to be affected by the laser, several treatments spread over several months are required to assure the destruction of all hair follicles.

What happens during a Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

It begins by trimming away the hair above the skin. You may be asked to wear dark glasses to protect your eyes from the bright light. Next, a cold gel is spread over the treatment area. The laser handpiece is then applied to your skin and pulses of laser begin disabling your unwanted hair. When the gel is removed, much of the hair is wiped off with it. The remaining hair in the treated area falls out over the next week or two.

What does Laser Hair Removal Treatment feel like?

Each pulse of laser feels like a slight sting or pinch, similar to the snap of a rubber band. Topical anesthetics may be used but most people don’t require them.

Can all hair be treated by Laser Hair Removal?

Our state of the art lasers that include the Diode laser from Lumenis and Candela, offer you customized treatment according to your hair color, texture and body location. Any hair with at least some pigment in it (black, brown, red) can be treated effectively.

Is Laser Hair Removal safe for all skin types?

Horwitz Dermatology uses the most advanced laser systems which are FDA approved for permanent reduction of hair in all skin types, including dark skinned African Americans and Hispanics.

Are there any possible side effects from Laser Hair Removal?

Side effects are rare. You may experience some slight reddening or local swelling at the treatment site, but this typically goes away within 24-48 hours. On rare occasions, some blistering may occur, but typically resolves quickly. The skin may also become lighter or darker following treatment, but will generally return to normal within a few weeks. Limiting sun exposure before and after treatments will minimize the risk of complications.

What kind of results should I expect from Laser Hair Removal?

Our lasers are FDA approved for permanent hair removal. The number of treatments required depends on several factors related to your specific kind of hair and skin. Usually five to six treatments spread out 4-6 weeks apart are required to achieve satisfactory results. Following each treatment, you can generally return to work and resume all regular activities.

What type of hair removal laser do you use?

We carry the latest models of the Light Sheer laser (Diode laser Model) and Candela GentleMax. Both of these lasers are FDA approved for permanent hair removal and have been shown to provide excellent results with all skin types.

What kind of hair can be removed by laser?

Unwanted hair from virtually any part of the body can be removed by the hair removal laser. The most common areas requested are upper lip and chin hair in women, other facial hair in women, underarm hair, leg hair, bikini areas and back and chest hair on men. Very light blond hair and gray hair cannot be removed by laser and is best treated by electrolysis, waxing, shaving or new hair creams.