Gaining permanent results from laser hair removal in Washington and Annapolis

Hair can either be a wonderful asset or a nuisance that takes up our valuable time. Men and women spend countless hours and heaps of money over a lifetime of removing unwanted hair through traditional means. The common hair removal practices are actually ineffective in the end. Day after day, unwanted hair continues its growth process and you are left with no choice but to shave, pluck or otherwise remove hair. There is a better solution to unwanted hair – laser hair removal. If you desire permanent results, laser hair removal with your Washington, D.C. dermatologist may be right for you. Dr. Burgess provides laser hair removal services in our D.C. office and in Annapolis. This treatment is known for its lasting results and significant decrease in unwanted hair. Laser hair removal is safe and effective, commonly used on areas including the face, chest, arms, legs, back and bikini line.

Steps to laser hair removal:

Consultation

To determine whether laser hair removal is appropriate, we begin with a consultation. During this visit, Dr. Burgess will listen to your concerns about unwanted hair and will examine the skin. She will also discuss details of laser hair removal and provide instructions to prepare for treatment.

Preparation for laser hair removal

Prior to laser hair removal, patients are advised to avoid tanning. This includes avoiding direct sunlight, as well as tanning beds and spray-tan products. The area to be treated may be shaved before laser hair removal or can be done in our office before treatment. However, waxing should be avoided for the two weeks prior to laser hair removal. Your doctor might also suggest avoiding certain medications that can produce photosensitivity.

Laser hair removal treatment

Before beginning treatment, your doctor will mark the area to be addressed. Laser energy is applied with a handheld device, targeting hair that lies in the follicles. Throughout treatment, which can take only a few minutes, patients feel a slight tingling or snapping sensation.

Post-treatment

Skin treated with laser energy should be kept clean and protected from the sun. Your doctor may discuss moisturizers containing SPF for use after each treatment. Results from treatment are immediately visible, with approximately 15 percent hair reduction occurring with each session. Because laser energy is only absorbed by hair within the follicles, several sessions are needed to produce the permanent results desired. After six to eight sessions, smooth, hair-free skin can be maintained with only occasional touch-ups.

Unwanted hair does not have to take up your time and resources. Call Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery in Washington D.C. or Annapolis to learn more about laser hair removal.