Laser Hair Removal
Lumenis® Lightsheer™ Laser
What is laser hair removal? Men and women alike can now make unwanted facial or body hair a thing of the past and forget about painful waxing, electrolysis, and razors. Dr. Myers performs laser hair removal for patients using gold-standard technology far beyond that of other lasers. Our LightSheer hair removal system is a non-invasive laser that generates intense, long-pulsed light through an actively-cooled hand piece to decrease and even eliminate unwanted hair growth. The laser's cold hand piece is gently placed on the skin, as pulses of light are delivered from the laser. When the light penetrates the skin, it selectively damages the root of the unwanted hair on all parts of the body including the cheeks, legs, arms, underarms, and back, as well as sensitive areas like the ears, nose, chest, nipples, and bikini line.
How effective is it? The percentage of hairs removed per session varies in different body locations, with areas of thick skin (for example, bikini and armpits) generally showing a better response than areas of thick skin (for example, back and chin). Approximately 10-25 percent reduction in hair regrowth can be expected with each treatment. Treatments are repeated every four to eight weeks. The hair that re-grows tends to be lighter and finer in texture.
What does it feel like? It is generally described as tolerable discomfort. Some patients say it feels like rubber band snaps on the skin. We do offer topical numbing cream and ice to make our patients feel comfortable during treatment if needed.
How many treatments will I need? As many as five treatment sessions spaced about one month apart may be required to achieve significant permanent hair reduction. Treatments may then be needed once or twice a year to gradually and permanently eradicate more and more hairs. Darker hair responds best, while lighter hair is less responsive. Tan skin does not respond as well as fair skin and may require more treatments. Topical medications can be used in an effort to increase the receptiveness of lighter hair to the laser treatment. You are required to shave the area prior to the day of treatment.
What are possible side effects? Side effects of laser hair removal may include pain, swelling, and redness. Blistering, cold sore outbreaks, and bacterial infections can also occur. Temporary skin lightening or darkening, especially in darker skin types, or in patients with a recent tan, may be seen. Permanent skin pigment change or scarring is very rare. Loss of freckles or lightening of moles in the treated area may occur, as well as darkening/lightening of tattoos.
Why is it important to see a skin specialist for hair reduction? This procedure should be performed under the direct supervision of a physician. Dr. Jennifer Myers is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes on in the treatment of skin, hair, and nail disorders and is an expert in hair removal methods. We perform laser hair removal in our office on a daily basis as a safe procedure with amazing results.
