Laser hair removal is a medical aesthetic treatment designed to reduce unwanted hair by targeting hair follicles with concentrated light energy. The treatment works by damaging the follicle in a way that slows or prevents future hair growth. Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction rather than permanent hair removal and is used on many areas of the face and body.
Laser hair removal works by delivering light energy that is absorbed by pigment within the hair follicle. This energy converts to heat, which disrupts the follicle’s ability to produce new hair. Because hair grows in cycles, laser treatment is most effective when hair is in the active growth phase, which is why multiple sessions are typically required.
Surrounding skin is protected through controlled energy delivery and cooling mechanisms.
Laser hair removal is commonly chosen by individuals seeking long-term reduction of unwanted hair without frequent shaving, waxing, or chemical depilatories. Candidacy depends on factors such as hair color, skin tone, hair thickness, and treatment area.
A consultation helps determine whether laser hair removal is appropriate and which settings or devices are best suited to individual characteristics.
is commonly chosen by individuals seeking long-term reduction of unwanted hair without frequent shaving, waxing, or chemical depilatories. Candidacy depends on factors such as hair color, skin tone, hair thickness, and treatment area.
A consultation helps determine whether laser hair removal is appropriate and which settings or devices are best suited to individual characteristics.
Laser hair removal is frequently used to manage concerns such as:
Facial hair growth
Facial hair growth patterns can vary due to genetics, hormonal changes, or aging. Unwanted facial hair may affect areas such as the upper lip, chin, jawline, or cheeks.
Underarm hair
Underarm hair can be dense and fast-growing, often requiring frequent shaving or waxing. Hair growth in this area may also contribute to irritation or ingrown hairs.
Leg and arm hair
Leg hair varies in thickness and growth rate and often covers a large surface area. Many individuals seek longer-term reduction to avoid ongoing hair removal maintenance.
Bikini-area hair
Bikini-area hair growth can be coarse and prone to irritation from shaving or waxing. Hair patterns and sensitivity vary widely in this region.
Back or chest hair
Back and chest hair growth is common and may increase with age or hormonal changes. Hair density and growth patterns can make routine removal challenging.
Ingrown hairs related to shaving or waxing
Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin rather than outward. This can lead to bumps, irritation, and uneven skin texture, especially in areas frequently shaved or waxed.
These concerns relate to hair growth patterns rather than medical diagnoses.
Laser hair removal treatments are generally well tolerated. Patients may experience brief sensations of warmth, snapping, or tingling as energy is delivered to the follicle. Sensation varies by treatment area, hair density, and individual sensitivity. Sessions typically range from a few minutes to longer appointments depending on the size of the area treated.
Laser hair removal involves minimal downtime. Mild redness or swelling around treated follicles may occur and usually resolves within hours to a day. Patients are typically advised to avoid sun exposure, tanning, or heat-based activities for a short period following treatment.
Hair shedding from treated follicles often occurs over the weeks following a session.
Laser hair removal results develop gradually over a series of treatments. Hair growth becomes finer and less dense with each session. Because not all follicles are active at the same time, multiple treatments spaced several weeks apart are usually required for optimal reduction.
Maintenance sessions may be recommended to manage new or residual hair growth over time.
Laser hair removal does not remove hair instantly and does not eliminate all hair permanently. Results vary based on hair color, skin tone, hormonal factors, and consistency of treatment. Very light, gray, or red hair may respond less predictably to laser treatment.
Laser hair removal is not appropriate for everyone, and expectations should reflect gradual reduction rather than complete eradication.
Laser hair removal treatments at Lazaderm follow physician-directed protocols. A clinical evaluation helps determine candidacy, treatment areas, and appropriate parameters. Conservative treatment planning supports both safety and effective hair reduction.
Laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction, not instant or absolute hair removal. The most satisfying outcomes occur when patients understand the need for multiple sessions and periodic maintenance based on individual hair growth patterns.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction. Some hair regrowth may occur over time, often finer and lighter.
How many treatments are needed?
There are many variables that come into play including the location of the hair, the growth cycle of the hair, the amount of pigment in the hair, and the diameter of the hair. To effectively remove hair, most individuals will need five to eight treatments to see good reduction in the number of hairs.
Does laser hair removal work on all hair colors?
Darker hair typically responds best. Very light or gray hair may be less responsive.
Is there downtime after laser hair removal?
Most patients return to normal activity immediately, with mild temporary skin effects possible.
Does the hair need to be grown out in the area before the treatment?
No. We ask that you shave the area before treatment. We ask that you refrain from waxing, bleaching, tweezing, or alternate methods of hair removal two weeks before treatment. Remember, it is the pigment in the hair that absorbs the energy from the laser and if you have plucked, bleached or used any for of depilatory cream, the laser treatment will not work.
Will I need to use any topical anesthetics before laser hair removal?
No. There isn’t a need for numbing cream prior to laser hair removal. The lasers come equipped with chilling plates which eliminate the need for topical anesthetics. We have found through many years of laser hair removal experience, that most patients do not feel the topical anesthetic creams are beneficial.
How long will each treatment session take?
This can vary widely. A small area such as the upper lip may take as little as five minutes. Other larger areas, like full legs or back, will take longer.
The best way to know if laser hair removal is right for your goals is to speak with a provider in person.
A consultation at Lazaderm gives you the opportunity to:
