Laser Hair Removal near me
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. Light and heat are used to damage the hair follicles in the body, inhibiting or delaying future hair growth.
Where can laser hair removal be performed?
Common treatment areas include the chin, upper lip, armpits, legs, and bikini line. However, we can successfully treat unwanted hair in almost any body part except the area around the eyebrows and eyelids. The treatment is also not advised for tattooed skin. We also carry out full-body laser hair removal or permanent facial hair removal.
What can I expect from the process of laser hair reduction and removal?
The process can be successful on all skin types but is most effective on people with dark hair and 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.
How does laser hair reduction and removal work?
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. For some patients who just need to thin hair in a specific area, laser hair reduction treatment might be a great option, where fewer treatments can provide desired results.
Are there any potential risks or side effects?
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.
How do I prepare for my laser treatment?
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.
How many laser hair reduction and removal treatments do I need for the best results?
Laser hair removal in Washington, DC, and Annapolis, MD, usually takes a minimum of six treatments, with intervals 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. Call our Washington office at (202) 955-5757 or our Annapolis office at (410) 224-1195.
FAQs – Laser hair removal
Because of how laser hair removal works, it does not require any time for healing. Immediately after your treatments, you may experience red, swollen skin, but this will subside over a day or two. Most patients are able to return to work, school, and other activities with no interruption.
With laser hair removal, the process takes time. With each treatment, you will see a reduction in hair in the treated area. Patients who want to thin hair growth in a certain area will achieve results sooner than those seeking complete permanent removal.
As mentioned, when administered by experienced and skilled professionals, laser hair removal is safe. Some possible effects after treatment include redness, swelling, and overall discomfort in the treated area. Other potential but rare effects include changes in skin coloring, scarring, blistering, and cold sore outbreaks.
Treatments should be done over time, several weeks apart, until the desired results are reached.
