Procedure description: The laser works by sending energy into the pigment of the hair shaft, which is absorbed by the surrounding follicle. The heat generated by this process damages the follicle and stops hair production. Since the laser works on more than one follicle at a time, larger areas like the back are just as easily treatable as smaller areas. Because the hair is targeted on the basis of color, the hair must be darker than the underlying skin for the laser to be effective.
Length of Procedure: The treatment time can vary considerably depending on the size of the area treated and particular technique used. A larger area, like the back, may take up to 1 hour.
Recovery: Following the procedure, the area may be red or swollen, as if mildly sunburned. Your doctor may prescribe a topical cream to soothe the skin. Occasionally, the skin in the treated area becomes slightly crusty, but this reaction should fade within a few days.
Although you can resume your normal activities, you should avoid exposing the treated area to the sun. Clean the area with mild soap and water and do not use any products that may irritate the skin (such as Retin-A or astringents).
Risks: Although laser treatment is generally safe and effective, possible side effects of the procedure include:
Darkening or lightening of the skin in the treated area; and, blistering, burning, or crustiness of the skin.
These side effects are almost always temporary. However, to reduce the risks involved in this procedure, carefully follow all of your doctor’s instructions, both before and after the procedure.
Results: Although most patients are satisfied with the results of laser hair removal, it is impossible to predict the success of the treatment for each individual. The resiliency of hair follicles in different parts of the body and in different individuals can vary widely. Multiple treatments are usually needed to remove hair permanently and in some cases complete hair removal is never achieved.
Estimated Cost: The average cost is $650 per treatment.
