Laser Hair Removal
Laser Hair Removal
What areas do we treat at Pacific Coast Dermatology?
· All areas
How does Laser Hair Removal Work?
· Laser hair removal works by using focused laser light to destroy hair follicles, which are located in the skin from which hair grows. The melanin or pigment in the hair follicle absorbs laser light which destroys the hair instantly.
Is it permanent?
· Lasers penetrate deep into your skin to destroy both the hair bulb & stem cells, preventing hair from growing back.
Results?
· Permanently destroys 10%-15% of hair per treatment
· Safe, easy and effective
· Softens and smoothens treated skin
· Safe and effective on all skin types
· Saves you time and money by not shaving, waxing, or threading
· Hair does not fall out right away, but sheds over days to weeks following your treatment.
· Hair regrows finer and lighter in color.
How many sessions will I need?
· Laser hair removal provides permanent hair reduction by up to 80 percent after a series of 4 to 6 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.
Is there any situation or illness I should mention to my provider before having laser hair removal done?
· If you are taking any of the following medications: isotretinoin, tetracyclines, gold therapy or anticoagulants, you should inform your health care provider
· Mention any open wounds, a history of herpes simplex, diabetes, or vitiligo
What should I do to prepare for my session?
· Shave or trim your hair the day before your treatment
· Remove any makeup, lotions and sunblock right before your treatment
What should I do right after my treatment?
· Apply ice if the area is red or burning.
· Avoid hot water to the affected area for the first 24-48 hours. Warm water is safe.
· Apply OTC 1% hydrocortisone cream as needed for redness, itching, and swelling for 1-2 days post treatment.
· Avoid sun exposure for 4-6 weeks after treatment. (Sunblock and a hat is adequate protection)
· Do not pick or pull out hairs. They will fall out on their own.
What should I avoid before and between sessions?
· Avoid waxing, threading or plucking as it can remove target (melanin) for the laser. You can shave or use chemical depilatories (Nair) in between treatments.
· Avoid self-tanners
· Avoid excessive UV exposure days prior to your treatment.
· If you have a sunburn or tan, you must wait 2 weeks before treatment.
· Avoid chemical peels and other laser procedures for at least 2 weeks prior and two weeks after your laser hair removal treatment.
· Avoid all alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy products (AHA/BHA), hydroquinone, retinols/retinoids, Tazorac, and Differin for 7 days before treatment
Are there any undesirable outcomes?
· Redness and some mild pain
· Blistering- if this occurs please give us a call
· Hyperpigmentation, which will fade in a few weeks
· Scarring is very rare
We also have laser treatments for broken blood vessels, redness, stretch marks, rejuvenation, brown spots and more.
— Lesley Bowler, PA-C