In the past, laser hair removal was only an option for patients with light skin and dark hair. Today, however, laser hair removal is safe for patients of all skin tones, also known as Fitzpatrick types. The providers at SkinMD know what precautions to take to perform laser hair removal safely and effectively for each patient. Here is a list of some commonly asked questions about laser hair removal.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
According to ZianMed, during laser hair removal treatment, light passes through the skin and is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft. Effective laser hair removal only happens when the melanin in the hair shaft heats up from the laser light and the heat is conducted to the growth cells and root causing thermal damage. This thermal damage destroys the growth cells and prevents future growth.
Will I Need Multiple Treatments?
The hair growth cycle is divided into three phases; Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen. Destruction of the hair follicle by the laser is only accomplished while it is in its Anagen phase. This is the phase when the hair shaft is connected to the root and growth cells. Because the hair on your body can be in any one of the three phases and laser hair removal is only effective in the Anagen phase, multiple treatments are needed. On average, patients can achieve the desired results with 6 treatments, but this may vary depending on genetics, hair color, hair depth, hormones, and many other factors.
Are The Results Permanent?
Each patient is different and requires varying amounts of treatments to achieve the desired hair loss results. Your SkinMD provider will work with you to create a plan and set expectations for your laser hair removal treatment. Some patients have permanent results while others require occasional touch-ups or maintenance treatments.
What Device Do You Use?
At SkinMD, we use the ZianMed Luxion 808 Diode laser hair removal device. It is often considered the “Gold Standard” in hair removal due to the fact that the 808nm wavelength is the perfect compromise between melanin absorption and depth penetration and can be used on all skin tones.
Laser Hair Removal At SkinMD
Get rid of unwanted hair by booking your laser hair removal treatment today. Appointments can be scheduled by contacting SkinMD via phone at 708-636-3767.
