Quick FAQs about the Diode Hair Removal Laser »

Until the last few years, shaving, plucking, waxing and electrolysis were the only methods of removing unwanted hair. In the early 1990s, the first reports of using laser energy to selectively damage and disable actively growing hair follicles were published, and since the mid 1990s, laser hair removal has become the "Gold Standard" method for hair removal.

There are many laser hair removal systems available today, but they all work using the principle of selective photothermolysis. This is the process in which a carefully timed pulse of laser energy passes through the skin and is absorbed and converted to heat energy to damage the hair follicle. Teresa and Dr. Lofgren have done extensive research comparing existing hair removal laser technologies. Our research led us to the diode laser that most effectively damages the hair follicle without damaging the surrounding skin.

Laser hair removal works best in lighter-skinned, darker-haired patients because the laser energy targets the pigment melanin. With the diode technology, even dark-skinned people can be treated with this laser. It is very important to avoid both sun and sunless tanning 1-2 weeks prior to their procedure. It is also important to note that because the pigment in the hair is the target for the laser, gray or white hair, which lacks pigment, cannot be effectively treated with any laser. We also recommend shaving as opposed to plucking or waxing prior to the procedure.

To minimize discomfort during the procedure, our laser has a chilled tip. We also apply a cooling gel and, when doing large areas such as the back and legs, we have a separate cooling unit. Most people describe the discomfort as minimal, like a rubber band snapping on the skin.

In the weeks following treatment, hair shafts may extrude from the damaged follicles and may mimic the appearance of regrowth. These may be left to fall out, or they may simply be plucked. The area can be treated again when the dormant follicles become active, usually about a month on the face and longer for other body areas.

Hair grows at various stages, some active and some dormant. Laser energy has its greatest effect on active, growing hair follicles. It is for this reason that 3-5 treatments at fixed intervals (usually 3-8 weeks) are needed for permanent hair reduction.

Call our office at 422-7815 for more information regarding laser hair removal.