Atlanta Laser Hair Removal

Most cosmetic physicians and dermatologists in Atlanta now offer laser as a method of hair removal. Even though the physicians mention that laser is a permanent solution to hair, this is not completely true. Laser does remove hair for much longer periods compared to the traditional methods of shaving and plucking, but it is not permanent.

The results of laser treatment last anywhere from 3 to 24 months. Repeat treatments are required in future to maintain the hair free look

Even after the laser, fine hair growth does occur in the same area and this hair can be easily removed.

Increasingly both men and women are seeking laser as an alternative method of hair removal

The reason why the results of laser hair removal are variable because the technique depends on several factors such as the:

- type of hair an individual has (coarse hair is more difficult to remove compared to fine hair

- skin type (hair removal is easier from fair skinned individuals, compared to dark skinned

- color of hair (darker hair is more easily removed compared to red hair)

Laser hair removal has the best results in individuals with dark hair and fair or light skin.

At your first visit, the physician will determine your general medical condition and obtain photographs to document progress of therapy.

For those who have had a recent tan, hair removal by laser has to be delayed until the tan fads. All sun tans increase the risk of laser side effects such as sunburns, skin blistering and skin discoloration. It is highly recommended that one wait at least 4-6 weeks after a tan before one undergoes laser therapy.

Because laser is most effective at removing the short stubs of hair, you will be asked to shave the area 2-3 days before the procedure. One should avoid all plucking, waxing or other treatments prior to the laser therapy.

Laser hair removal is usually done as an outpatient in a spa or a clinic. Once the eyes are covered, the small laser probe is aimed and fired at the hair bearing area. When the laser is activated it does discharge an intense burst of energy which produces heat. The heat is absorbed by the hair follicles and disrupts the hair follicle. You may be able to smell of burnt hair and this is normal

Each time the laser is fired, you will feel a sharp sensation like a bee sting. Some individuals may tolerate this and some do not. For those who have no pain tolerance, the physician can numb the area with a local anesthetic.

In addition, most of the latest laser devices have a cooling device at the tip and so the pain is minimal

The majority of individuals require multiple sessions of laser therapy to remove all the hair. The laser removal is spaced at intervals of 6-8 weeks

The time of the procedure is dependent on the area being treated. Large areas usually require several hours, but the few hairs on the chin or on the upper lip can be removed in 5-10 minutes.