Laser Hair Removal in Washington, DC, and Annapolis, MD
Laser hair removal is a popular treatment among our patients in Washington, DC, and Annapolis, MD. The procedure uses a concentrated laser beam to remove unwanted facial and body hair in men and women. It is a process that utilizes both light and heat to damage the hair follicles in the body, inhibiting or delaying future hair growth.
Common treatment areas include the chin, upper lip, armpits, legs, and bikini line. However, we can successfully treat unwanted hair in almost any part of the body except the area around the eyebrows and eyelids. The treatment is not advised for tattooed skin too. We also carry out full-body laser hair removal.
The process can be successful on all types of skin but is most effective on people with dark hair on light skin. This is because the light should be absorbed by the pigment of the hair, not the pigment of the skin, and the laser should only damage the hair follicle while avoiding any skin damage. The higher the contrast between skin and hair, the better the results.
Although it is not a permanent hair removal method, several laser sessions effectively delay the growth of new hair and aid hair reduction. Hair that regrows will usually be finer and lighter in color.
Some side effects may occur, varying with skin type, hair color therapy plan, and adherence to pre and post-treatment care. The most common are skin irritation, temporary discomfort, and darkened or lightened skin. Scarring, blistering, crusting or other changes in skin texture are rare. A trained and experienced physician can successfully manage all these side effects.
When preparing for the treatment, Dr. Burgess might advise you to stay out of the sun and apply a broad-spectrum, SPF30+ sunscreen; lighten your skin to make the treatment easier; avoid other hair removal methods (you can shave the treatment area); and avoid certain medications, such as blood-thinning drugs.
Laser hair removal in Washington, DC, and Annapolis, MD, usually takes a minimum of 6 treatments, with the interval between sessions depending on the treatment location. On the upper lip, for instance, where hair grows quickly, treatment might be repeated four to eight weeks later. In areas where the hair growth is slow, like the back, repeat treatment may be every 12 to 16 weeks.
Want to learn more about laser hair removal? Contact Dr. Cheryl Burgess and her team of professionals at the Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery today.
