Every dermatologic procedure requires adequate patient education to help you make an informed choice. Your dermatologist will walk you through what to expect and how to prepare for the Mt Kisco laser hair removal procedure to help you decide if the procedure best fits your needs. The following are frequently asked questions that you should consider asking your dermatologist before scheduling a laser hair removal appointment:
What happens during laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal requires proper sanitation. Your doctor will clean the treatment area to minimize the risk of possible side effects like infection.
Your dermatologist will then numb the area using a numbing gel, especially if you have sensitive skin. Numbing is necessary to optimize your treatment experience by reducing pain. You will also wear protective eyewear because the procedure involves using lasers that may be destructive when in contact with your eye.
Hair removal using laser technology requires your dermatologist to hold your skin taut. You may notice plumes of smoke due to the laser’s vaporizing effect on your hair.
Laser hair removal only lasts a few minutes but depends on the extent of the treatment area. Most laser hair removal procedures do not exceed an hour.
Are there preparation guidelines for laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal leverages concentrated beams of light to effectively and permanently eliminate unwanted hair. Some standard guidelines that your dermatologist may recommend to help you prepare for your first laser hair removal appointment include: avoiding natural or artificial tanning, which may increase your risk of skin-lightening side effects.Â
You may shave or trim the area at least three days before the procedure. This guideline is to minimize pain due to longer hair during the laser hair removal process. Your dermatologist will recommend hair removal techniques that leave hair follicles intact.
What are the possible side effects of laser hair removal?
Most patients report minor side effects following their laser hair removal. For example, you may notice pain, bruising, swelling, and redness in the treatment area. Do not worry about these side effects because they may resolve a few days after the procedure. Your doctor may also prescribe over-the-counter medications to speed up recovery from these side effects. Following your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions will minimize your risk of adverse side effects like changes in skin color and optimize your recovery.
When are results visible after undergoing laser hair removal?
Various factors like skin color, hair thickness, and type of laser will influence your laser hair removal results. You may notice a significant reduction in hair immediately after the procedure. However, laser hair removal requires multiple appointments to achieve desired outcomes. The benefit of laser hair removal is the permanent elimination of unwanted hair. You may enjoy being hairless for months and even years.
Is laser hair removal right for me?
Hair removal through laser treatments is an effective and safe way to eliminate unwanted hair and boost your self-esteem. However, it would help if you collaborated with trained and experienced providers who understand the appropriate techniques to maintain efficacy and safety.
Contact The Center for Dermatology Cosmetic & Laser Surgery to schedule a laser hair removal appointment and jumpstart your journey to being hair-free.
