Laser hair removal is a permanent solution to reduce excess body hair. Unwanted body hair can be uncomfortable and a nuisance to remove. Whether you shave, wax, tweeze or cream your hair away, you need to do it regularly to have smooth, attractive skin. With laser hair removal, you only need two to six treatments to remove completely the unwanted hair, and most of it will never grow back. Even the hair that does grow back will be pale and weak.
Laser hair removal targets the melanin in the hair follicle, which is the pigment that gives the hair color. The pigment absorbs the laser light as heat, which destroys the follicle. The laser does not affect the surrounding skin. When the follicle is destroyed, it will not be able to grow hair again. Over the next few days it may look like your hair is growing longer, but this is just the process of falling out.
Hair grows in three stages. Laser hair removal works most effectively during the active growth stage. This is the main reason you need several treatments to make sure all the hair has been removed. The results may last anywhere from three to 18 months, after which a maintenance treatment may be needed. After each treatment, it is recommended to wear sunscreen on the treated area and stay out of the sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. Since several treatments are needed for the desired results, many people opt to have laser hair removal during the winter, when they naturally wear more clothing.
Laser hair removal is very precise. Our specialist can remove hair from very small places such as the upper lip or chin, or we could treat large places such as the back, chest or legs. The procedure is quick and may take a few minutes for the face and up to an hour for large areas.
During a consultation with our specialist, you can learn more about the features of laser hair removal and find out if it is the best option for you. Before treatment you should not wax, pluck or undergo electrolysis for about six weeks because these actions remove the follicle. Shaving is fine because it does not affect the follicle. You should also avoid sun exposure as much as possible for about six weeks prior to your treatment.
During your treatment, we will do everything possible to ensure your comfort. The amount of time your treatment will take will depend on factors such as how much hair you want treated and the size of the targeted areas.
For a permanent reduction of unwanted body hair, laser hair removal may be your best option. You can enjoy smooth skin the whole summer and even longer. We are pleased to provide this treatment at True Skin Care Center and would be happy to help you find out if it is the right course of action for you. Contact our office in Chicago to schedule your first appointment and learn more!