Laser Hair Removal
Laser Hair Removal in Sugar Land, Katy, and Houston, Texas
Unwanted hair is a common reason why many find themselves on the hunt for a reputable health professional. While waxing and shaving are two avenues one can take to get rid of unwanted hair, a more definitive approach is laser hair removal. Laser hair removal is a safe and simple treatment that miniaturizes hair follicles in minutes and eliminates the burden of frequent shaving or waxing.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal can remove unwanted hair from many areas, including the face, legs, arms, underarms, and bikini line. Lasers used for hair removal target the melanin granules in the hair follicle while sparing the surrounding skin. Further, laser hair removal is a fast procedure. Every second, the laser can target an area that is the approximate size of a quarter. If the procedure is being done on the upper lip, for example, it can be done in less than one minute. For larger areas like the legs, the procedure can take up to one hour. After three to seven laser hair removal sessions, most patients can expect significant hair reduction.
Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
Despite its overall ease, laser hair removal is a medical procedure. It is important that your provider has credentials stating that he or she is trained in the procedure. Four weeks prior to treatment, plucking, waxing, or electrolysis of the hair is discouraged. Further, limiting sun exposure six weeks prior to and after laser hair removal can help make the procedure
more effective and will reduce the risks of complications following treatment. Shaving of
the areas to be treated is recommended 24 hours prior your treatment.
What to Expect
Before the procedure, we will discuss all the risks and benefits of the procedure in a consultation and a board certified dermatologist will choose initial settings based on skin color and the thickness, color, and location of the hair being treated. Typically, protective eyewear will be given to the patient. After all safety precautions have been taken, the technician will do a “test run” to see if the proper settings have been chosen and to make sure the patient does not have any adverse reactions to the lasers. Finally, the procedure begins and the overall time varies depending on what areas are undergoing laser hair removal. After the procedure, depending on the area, sunscreen or lotion will be applied to minimize discomfort and complications. Once the hair stops growing, touch ups are recommended 2-3 times per year to maintain your results.
Choosing a reputable provider
Be wary of corner shops or salons that offer laser hair removal. While it is a non-invasive procedure, it is still a medical procedure that requires certain credentials before a specialist can offer treatment. In addition, a patient should never feel rushed or pressured into making the choice to undergo laser hair removal. For an experienced team that will work with you to create a laser hair removal plan that meets your overall needs, contact Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery today for a consultation.
Results
Following laser hair removal, patients may experience mild redness and swelling in the treated areas, though ice packs can help to diminish discomfort. A series of 3-4 laser hair removal treatments are often required for patients to see significant hair reduction.
If you are interested in smooth, hair-free skin with laser hair removal in the Sugar Land area, contact our office today! Our experienced professional team will work with you to create an individualized laser hair removal treatment plan to meet your aesthetic goals.