Written by Dr. Ringpfeil

Laser(Alexandrite and ND:Yag)

Overview: Long pulsed lasers are used for the permanent reduction of unwanted body hair and are safe for all skin types. A series of treatments is needed to achieve the degree of reduction a person feels comfortable with.

Expected results: Permanent reduction of unwanted body hair (except eyebrows). Residual hair will be finer and lighter.

Preparations: Hair must not be plucked or waxed for 4 weeks prior to treatment. Hair should be shaved or clipped to the skin level on the evening before the treatment. Bleaching is permitted.

Post treatment instructions: Strict sun avoidance for 6 weeks.

Time to desired results: After three treatments, 50% reduction of the hair is visible; 90-95% reduction of hair is often achieved in 6 treatments.

Duration of desired effects: Permanent. Note: Even after 6 treatments, there may be residual hair in the treated area because some hair follicles are dormant for months or years. Periodic maintenance treatment can be added when these hair follicles are producing hair again. During the course of the laser treatment, the residual hair typically becomes finer and lighter in color.

Contraindications: White or red hair. Recent tan in fair skinned individuals, none in darker skin types. If an endocrinologic abnormality is detected, laser treatment and concomitant treatment by the endocrinologist will provide best results.

Downtime: Depending on the hair density, downtime can vary from several hours to 3 days.