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Laser Hair Removal

Pre-Treatment | Procedure | Post-Treatment


Laser hair removal works only on black or brown hair. Treatments are most effective on dark, coarse hair coupled with fair skin because the laser is attracted to the pigment in the follicle of the hair. The lighter the skin color, the less chance of possible pigmentation complications and the more effective the treatment is as more laser energy can be utilized for the treatment. Therefore, sufficient protection from the sun prior to and during treatment is imperative.

Pre-Treatment Information

The hair to be laser treated should not be tweezed, waxed, epilated, bleached or threaded in any way. The hair may be shaved or left alone for 4 weeks prior to treatment and throughout the treatment course. It is helpful and more comfortable for the patient however to shave the treatment area the night before or morning of the appointment.


If you have a history of herpes outbreak in the area of intended treatment, please let us know as prophylactic medication may be warranted.

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Laser Hair Removal Procedure

A cool gel is applied to the area which has been shaved by the patient prior to the appointment. Certain areas of the body are more sensitive than others, and measures are taken (ice, possible numbing cream) to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. The sensation of laser hair removal treatment is commonly described as a "rubber band snap".

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Post-Treatment Information

Immediately after treatment, a mild sunburn-like sensation is expected usually lasting 2 to 24 hours but may persist for up to 72 hours. It is helpful to apply cold gel packs, bags of frozen peas, or a cool wet cloth to the treatment site for 15 minutes every 2 to 4 hours until the symptoms subside. You may bathe and shower as usual. Treated areas may be temperature sensitive and cool showers or baths will offer relief.

Avoid the following:

  • Aggressive scrubbing, use of exfoliants, scrub brushes or loofah sponges until the treatment area has returned to its pre-treatment condition.
  • Sun exposure to treated areas, as well as the use of sun tanning beds and self-tanning products
  • Swimming, hot tubs/Jacuzzis and excessive exercise for 24 hours after treatment or until redness resolves.
  • Picking or removing scabs or crusting as this will help decrease the chance of infection or scarring.

Sun avoidance will decrease the likelihood of skin color changes. Use a SPF 30 sunscreen if sun exposure is unavoidable. If blisters occur, apply an antibiotic ointment to the area 2 times a day until healed. You may take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen to help reduce discomfort according to manufacturer's recommendations. Please contact our office if you have any concerns.

Appearance of hair growth or stubble will continue for 7 to 30 days post-treatment. This is not new hair growth but the treated hairs being purged from the skin. Treatments are performed one month apart.

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