Recent advances in laser technology have allowed for laser removal of unwanted hair. Hair can be removed from virtually any area you desire, typically, facial hair, the bikini line, legs, back, arms and underarms. Unfortunately not all patients are good candidates for laser hair removal. Typically fair skinned patients with dark hair are the best candidates although patients with darker complexions can be treated after a successful test patch. Blonde hair does not respond well to laser treatment. During your initial consultation Dr. Trimas will evaluate your skin type and determine if you a candidate for laser hair removal.

What is Laser Hair Removal?

The laser is an intense pulsed light device used for epilation (hair removal). The light wavelength, exposure time and energy level are chosen to selectively damage targeted hair follicles with minimal damage to surrounding tissue. The intense pulsed light is absorbed by the hair follicle, resulting in their heating. The follicles are damaged and results in appellation.

Proposed Treatment Results

While the overwhelming number of patients have noted gratifying results from laser hair removal, we cannot promise or guarantee any specific results. It is important to understand that hair growth is cyclical. At any given time a certain percentage of the hairs are in a resting phase and the laser will not be effective on those hairs. Therefore it should be expected that it will take three to six treatments to obtain enduring results. Additionally, over time it may be necessary to have touch up sessions.

What to expect during and after treatment

A test patch may be done on some patients. If there is no untoward results the first treatment may be scheduled in one week. Six week intervals are necessary to allow for the hair cycle to be completed. This will assure adequate evaluation of the treatment.

To achieve optimal results, it is necessary that once treatment has begun, you maintain a regular schedule of treatment every four-to six weeks until the treatment is complete.

Sun exposure must be avoided 4 weeks prior to treatment, and during treatment.

We cannot treat the area if you have a tan.

There is some degree of pain involved. Every patient's pain tolerance varies. Most patients report the sensation of a rubber band snap. If during your treatment session you find the pain to be too much for you, we can provide you with a prescription for EMLA cream (a topical anesthetic). This will reduce the pain sensation to varying degrees depending on your body chemistry.

A burning sensation may be present during treatment, and can last up to two hours following the treatment. Application of a soothing Aloe Vera gel will reduce discomfort.

Swelling may occur immediately after treatment, especially when treating the face. This is temporary and not harmful. Cold compresses may reduce the swelling.

Shaving should be avoided post treatment for a period of one week.