Considering Laser Hair Removal? Here’s What To Expect

• Posted on: Sep 15 2016
• By: Callender Dermatology

If you’ve finally decided you’re over it…no more waxing, plucking, pain, shaving and razor burn…you’ve come to the right place. So, what can you expect from laser hair removal?

• Prior to your appointment, you’ll be asked to avoid shaving or waxing for about six weeks. Laser hair removal targets the roots of body hair, so if you’ve recently waxed or plucked, those roots will be temporarily gone and the laser will have nothing to target. You should also avoid tanning beds and too much sun exposure, since these could make the process more painful and less effective.
• Your appointment will probably last from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the area you are having treated. For example, it will probably take longer to do your legs than your upper lip.
• The doctor or esthetician will calibrate the laser specifically for your hair thickness, skin tone, and hair color. Next, a gel or topical numbing agent will be applied to protect your skin. You may experience some slight tingling, heat, or minor discomfort during the procedure, but overall the pain should be minimal, if any. You will be asked to wear eye protection to shield your eyes from the bright light of the laser.
• After your treatment, you may experience minor swelling and redness; this is normal. You should be able to go about your regular daily activities immediately, but if you need some pain relief, you can use ice, over-the-counter pain relievers, or anti inflammatory creamto minimize discomfort. The targeted hair should start to fall out a few days after the procedure. But you’ll have to return for a few follow up sessions to get lasting results. You should plan on returning for three to five sessions, scheduled four to six weeks apart. Avoid waxing, plucking, and excessive sun exposure between sessions, as you did before your first session.

What’s the take-away? The laser-treated hair will be permanently gone…you won’t have to shave, pluck, or wax again. Men as well as women are taking advantage of laser hair removal at Callender. To learn more about laser hair removal, call to schedule an appointment, today: (301) 249-0970.

Posted in: Laser Hair Removal