Laser Hair Removal at Central Missouri Dermatology
Shaving and waxing are two of the most common hair removal methods, but they often irritate the skin and, ironically, can lead to more hair growth. While there are plenty of hair removal creams, lotions, and “as seen on TV” products available, many of them are ineffective, and some may even be harmful to your skin. The safest and most effective option today for long-term hair removal is laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal is relatively painless and offers a permanent solution to get rid of unwanted or embarrassing body hair. Because the hair is removed from the follicle, laser treatments prevent the “shadow” effect that many people experience with shaving or waxing. Whether it’s your upper lip, legs, or more delicate areas like Bikini and Brazilian, laser hair removal at Central Missouri Dermatology can eliminate your hair concerns with ease and precision.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in the hair follicle. A laser emits a concentrated beam of light that penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the melanin in the hair. This heat damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth. The treatment is most effective on individuals with dark hair and lighter skin tones, but advancements in technology have made laser hair removal an option for a wider range of hair and skin types. Laser hair removal can also be utilized for difficult to treat conditions such as pseudofolliculitis barbae, hidadrenitis suppurativa, or even folliculitis.
How Effective is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser Hair removal is a great way to remove unwanted hair in all skin types. Aside from our cosmetic patients, I often recommend it to benefit some our medical dermatology patients with frequent shaving bumps in neck area and for patients with hidadrentis suppurativa.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Treatments Are Necessary?
Laser hair removal typically requires 3-6 sessions for optimal results, depending on the area being treated and your specific hair type. Since hair grows in cycles, multiple treatments are needed to target the hair follicles during their growth phase. Sessions are usually spaced about 4-6 weeks apart. After completing the recommended number of treatments, periodic maintenance sessions may be required to maintain smooth, hair-free skin.
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
Sun Exposure:
Before your first treatment, it’s essential to avoid sun exposure. Your skin needs to be its natural tone to ensure safe and effective treatment, so avoid tanning and sunless tanner throughout the course of your treatments.
Shaving:
We recommend shaving the day of or the day before your session. However, avoid waxing, plucking, or using hair removal creams in the weeks leading up to your laser treatments, as these methods remove the hair from the follicle, making the laser less effective.
Skin Preparation:
Come in for your treatment with clean, dry skin—avoid wearing any makeup, lotions, or perfumes on the treatment area. This ensures the laser can work without interference from skincare products or debris on the skin.
What to Expect During Treatment
During your treatment, you may feel a slight snapping sensation as the laser targets the hair follicles. After your first session, you’ll likely notice that you don’t have to shave as often, and hair growth will become noticeably more sparse. With each subsequent visit, the laser’s intensity will increase to provide you with the best possible results. Most clients find laser hair removal to be a comfortable and quick process, with minimal downtime.
Ready to say goodbye to razors and waxing? At Central Missouri Dermatology, we’re here to help you achieve smooth, hair-free skin with personalized laser hair removal treatments that are effective, safe, and tailored to your needs.
Laser Hair Removal FAQ
How many laser hair removal treatments will I need?
Most people require between 3-6 treatments for optimal results. Since hair grows in cycles, the laser targets active hair follicles during their growth phase. Treatments are typically spaced 4-6 weeks apart, allowing time for different hair follicles to reach the growth phase. After completing your sessions, occasional maintenance treatments may be needed to maintain results.
What areas can I have laser hair removal done?
Laser hair removal can be performed on almost any area of the body. Popular treatment areas include the face (upper lip, chin), legs, arms, underarms, back, chest, and bikini/Brazilian areas. Delicate areas can be treated safely, and our laser is designed to handle both small and large areas of the body.
What are the side effects of laser hair removal?
The most common side effects are mild and temporary, including redness, slight swelling, and a warm sensation on the treated skin. These effects usually subside within a few hours to a day. In rare cases, there may be slight skin discoloration, but this typically resolves over time. It’s essential to follow aftercare instructions to minimize any potential risks.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Most people describe the sensation during laser hair removal as similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. While discomfort is minimal, we can adjust the laser settings or apply a cooling gel to increase comfort during the procedure. With each session, as hair becomes thinner, discomfort tends to decrease.
What results should I expect?
Results will vary based on skin type, hair color, and the area being treated. After each session, you’ll notice that hair regrows more slowly and becomes finer and lighter. The majority of clients see significant long-term hair reduction with smoother, more evenly toned skin after completing their treatments.
Is laser hair removal safe for all skin types?
Central Missouri Dermatology has the technology and experience to perform laser hair removal on ALL skin types. For darker skin types only certain settings and wavelengths of lasers may be used to avoid burning or adverse effects from the laser treatment. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your skin and hair type to determine the best laser settings and customize a treatment plan that’s safe for you.
Can I shave between laser hair removal sessions?
Yes, shaving is encouraged between sessions. However, avoid waxing, plucking, or using depilatory creams as these methods remove hair from the follicle, making the laser treatment less effective. Shaving leaves the root intact, which the laser targets during your next session.
