Laser Hair Removal in Baltimore, MD
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure energy to remove unwanted hair from a targeted area. Common areas on which laser hair removal is performed are the chin, upper lip, chest, underarms, back, bikini line and legs.
Although there are many temporary treatments, including tweezing, shaving, and waxing, to remove unwanted hair, patients seeking more permanent and less irritating/painful methods are frequently good candidates for laser hair removal. Through what is a safe and painless procedure, hair can be removed from nearly any area of the body.
Candidates for Laser Hair Removal
Because the laser used to remove hair target its melanin (pigment), the best candidates have dark hair and light skin. Although the Motus AY laser hair removal machine can safely treat all skin types. Conversely, those with blond, red, gray or white hair and dark skin are usually not good candidates. Recent technological advances have made laser hair removal for those with dark skin successful, while techniques for using lasers to effectively remove light-colored hair are still being investigated.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
There are many benefits to having unwanted hair removed through the use of laser therapy. They include the following:
Hair is reduced by 80-90%
Hair is precisely targeted
Procedure is quick
Results are permanent (for 90 percent of patients) or long-lasting
For many patients, laser hair removal is painless and feels like a cold gliding sensation on the skin.
Laser Hair Removal Procedure
Laser hair removal is performed using ultrasound gel. A handheld device that emits laser pulses is moved across the area, focusing on individual hair follicles. We ask that you arrive to our office with the hair freshly shaved from the morning or previous evening.
Hair growth takes place cyclically, in three stages. The most effective laser hair removal takes place during the andogen (full-growth) stage, because the hair follicles in this stage are susceptible to laser energy. But, because all hair is not in the same stage of growth at any given time, several laser treatments, usually between 6-8 sessions, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, are necessary. To some extent, the length of treatment depends on the color of the hair, and the location from which it is being removed.
Recovery from Laser Hair Removal
Some redness, soreness or swelling may occur immediately after laser hair removal, but usually dissipates within a day or two. Cold compresses or ice packs may minimize discomfort. Sun exposure should be avoided as much as possible for 4 weeks post treatment.
Complications of Laser Hair Removal
The most common complication of laser hair removal is the regrowth of the unwanted hair. Frequently, however, the hair that regrows is finer and lighter than the hair that was removed. Usually, regrowth can be addressed with a few additional treatment sessions. Other rare complications that may arise after laser hair treatment, although extremely rare include skin irritation such as blistering, changes in pigmentation or texture of the skin; and scarring at the site.