Unwanted hair can be embarrassing and difficult to remove. Imagine being able to dramatically reduce or eliminate unwanted hair. Now you can. Both our Syosset and Garden City offices offer laser hair removal that can safely reduce unwanted hair. This is an effective hair removal option for both men and women with excellent results.
How does laser hair removal work?
This non-invasive procedure uses gentle light beams to remove hair. The part of the hair that holds color is called melanin. During the procedure, the melanin absorbs the light emitted by the laser. As the light is absorbed, the temperature causes the hair follicle to be damaged without damaging the skin. Removing hair this way prevents the hair follicle from producing hair in the future. This way you get immediate long-lasting results.
What Is the Treatment Like?
Administered by one of our physicians, a small handheld laser device is placed over the treatment area to deliver a beam of light. During the session, you may experience a mild tingling, like a rubber band snapping against your skin. A local anesthetic can be applied or taken before the session, if needed, and the office will provide you with an ice pack after your treatment. To keep your eyes safe from the strength of the laser, you will wear goggles to protect your eyes from the intense light.
Many see the desired result after the first session. Areas of thick growth will need special attention and repeated sessions. We typically plan 3 to 7 sessions at approximately 4 to 5-week intervals for each treatment area.
Am I A Good Candidate?
Laser hair removal works when light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft and follicle. That is why people with dark hair are considered the best candidates for laser hair removal. Blonde, gray, and strawberry blond hair may not absorb laser light enough to get the desired results. Additionally, the contrast between hair and skin is also important. Patients with darker skin may need more contrast for the hair follicles to absorb light.
As with many procedures, everyone responds differently to laser hair removal. Some people may need more treatment than others. Sometimes laser hair removal fails to remove hair or prevent future hair growth. However, when the hair grows back, it is usually thinner and finer than it was before the treatment.
What Can I Expect Before and After Treatment?
Before Your Treatment
You can prepare for laser hair removal by not growing or plucking the treated area for 4 to 6 weeks before treatment; hair follicles must be present for treatment to occur. You can still shave and may be asked to shave 24 to 48 hours before your appointment.
Since laser hair removal depends on your skin and hair color, you should avoid sunbathing for at least 6 weeks before your treatment.
After Your Treatment
Redness or lumps may occur immediately after treatment, but they will not interfere with your daily activities. Some people briefly apply an ice pack to their treated area to lower minimal inflammation or discomfort. You won’t need any recovery time after your treatment, so you can do almost all of your regular activities right after your appointment. You should however avoid sun exposure for the next 4 to 6 weeks as your skin and hair will be more sensitive to light.
How Many Treatments Are Necessary?
In most cases, multiple treatments will be required to effectively treat all the follicles in a certain area. Laser hair removal does not guarantee permanent hair removal, but most patients see long-term results after just a few sessions. Four to eight courses of treatment are usually required to achieve the desired results and maintenance sessions can be scheduled to treat areas of concern.
How Long Will It Take To See Results?
You will see a noticeable difference on your first visit. Significant results are often seen after each additional treatment, but final results may not be seen until all required treatments are completed.
Curious about laser hair removal? Contact Borealis Dermatology in New York. With locations in Garden City and Syosset, NY, our experienced team offers medical and surgical dermatological services to communities throughout Long Island. For a consultation or appointment with the best-reviewed dermatology office in Long Island, call 516-246-8800.
