What is laser hair removal?
The laser beam sends light energy to the pigment in a hair follicle.
This energy permanently disables the hair follicle. Each laser
pulse lasts a fraction of a second affecting several hairs at
one time. Both blond and white hair will have little or no response
to the laser. Dark, coarse hair responds best. Hair has active,
resting and dormant growth phases. Because the hair follicles
that are in the active growth phase are more susceptible to the
laser light, multiple treatments are required to remove all hair.
Is the hair removal permanent?
The Cool Glide Laser System is approved by the FDA for permanent
hair reduction.
What can I expect?
The length of a laser session may be a few minutes to an hour,
depending on the size of the area being treated.
How many treatments will I need?
In many cases, significant improvement is realized in as few as
4 to 5 treatments for legs, underarms and bikini. The face usually
requires 8 to 9 treatments to be hair free. For best results schedule
treatments 6-8 weeks apart.
What does it feel like?
Although many patients report little or no discomfort, some may
experience a mild stinging sensation when the laser pulse is delivered.
The cold tip of the CoolGlide hand piece helps sooth the skin
as the laser pulse is delivered. For those who are interested,
a topical anesthetic is available.
What complications may occur?
Redness and local swelling of the skin, similar to sunburn, may
occur in some patients. These effects typically last for 2-3 hours.
What happens after treatment?
Following your treatment you can return to normal activities immediately.
Sunscreen is recommended for areas exposed to the sun. Tan skin
can be treated but not sunburned skin. Between treatments you
should not wax or pluck the hair; only shaving will not harm your
end results.
How does laser treatment compare to electrolysis?
Electrolysis treats one hair at a time, and the electrologist
can only treat the hairs that they can see. The laser sees all
of the hairs that are actively growing, even those beneath the
skin. Laser can treat large areas in a fraction of the time and
requires fewer treatments for a better result. Electrolysis is
the only option for white or blond hair.
Before |
After |
Photo courtesy of: Samuel Lederman, MD
Before |
After |
Photo courtesy of: John Hunts, MD
Photo courtesy of: Greg Waslen, MD
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