The Ins and Outs of Laser Hair Removal

-by Tori Grasta, RN

Are you slowly working your way out of quarantine life and ready to treat yourself or a loved one? Have you been contemplating finally getting rid of unwanted hair?  There is no better time than now to start your laser hair removal journey! Laser hair removal (LHR) is the safest and most effective way to help diminish the growth of unwanted hair on the face and body.

Here at Q Med Spa, a certified nurse uses our amazing Cynosure Elite+ laser for hair removal, which emits a concentrated beam of light and converts it to heat energy to target the hair follicle. When the heat energy damages the hair follicles, this inhibits, or delays, the growth of new hair.

For the best results, there are some important things to know

The laser is attracted to the pigment or melanin in the hair, which means the darker the hair, the better. LHR is less effective for those with a hair color that does not absorb the light such as blonde, grey, and white. We want the laser to target the pigment in your hair and not in your skin. This is why it is very important that you do not have a tan when you schedule your procedure. The fall and winter months are the perfect time to get started on laser hair removal because we are dressing in more layers and less likely to inadvertently spend too much time in the sun.

What areas of the body can you laser?

It is possible to perform laser hair removal on almost any body part, except the eyelids and surrounding area. We also avoid areas that have been tattooed. Most commonly, laser is performed on the arms, legs, underarms, bikini area, back, upper lip, and chin. During your consultation, the provider will review your medical history, current medications, and your skin type to come up with a laser plan that is right for you. Depending on the area of concern, most people need 4-8 treatments to start, with 4-10 weeks in between each treatment depending on the area. Maintenance treatments may also be required. Results can vary significantly and therefore your provider will help closely guide you through your personal LHR journey.

Think about it; if you start now, you could have much less hair and be much more swimsuit ready by the time that warm weather rolls back in! We are here to answer all of your questions and to assist you in all of your laser hair removal needs! Call (585) 244-1010 for more information and to set up your consultation.