American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 

Laser Hair Removal

Hair Removal Procedure

Laser hair removal is a noninvasive technique that uses highly concentrated light to penetrate hair follicles and inhibit future hair growth.

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a noninvasive technique that uses highly concentrated light to penetrate hair follicles. The laser light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair shaft in the follicle-generating heat which damages the follicle to inhibit future hair growth. Therefore, plucking hair before treatment reduces the efficacy of the laser treatment as the target is absent.

Because laser hair removal only affects actively growing hair follicles, it may take several laser hair removal treatments to provide significant hair reduction. Additionally, while laser hair removal effectively slows hair growth, it doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal. Periodic maintenance treatments may be needed.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Although laser hair removal reduces the number of unwanted hairs in a given area, it doesn't get rid of them completely. When the hair grows back, they will be finer, lighter, and fewer in number. Most people require between four and six sessions, and occasional maintenance may be required.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal uses laser beams to heat up and damage the hair follicles, which temporarily halts hair production.

Common treatment areas for laser hair removal

Most commonly, laser hair removal is used to treat the face, body, legs, armpits and pubic area.



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