What Makes a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a popular treatment because it eliminates the need for time-consuming and costly shaving, waxing, and tweezing. If you’ve been considering this form of hair removal, these are a few things that may help you determine whether you are a candidate for treatment.

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a quick hair removal method that is more cost-effective and pain-free than other hair removal methods such as waxing, shaving, and tweezing. Laser hair removal works by targeting the hair follicles and the melanin in the hair shaft that gives it pigmentation. The dark melanin absorbs the light energy and carries it to the hair follicle which is then heated and damaged. Over time, these treated follicles are unable to produce new hairs, or the growth cycle is significantly slowed down.

Am I a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

There are a few things to consider before getting laser hair removal. The following factors may impact whether you are a candidate for this procedure or if you should consider other hair removal methods:

Hair and Skin Type

The best patients for laser hair removal are those who have dark, coarse hair and a lighter skin tone. The contrast between dark hairs and light skin makes it easier for the laser to target the melanin in the hair follicles. Fine, blond hairs lack melanin and therefore cannot be targeted by a laser, so waxing is the better option if you still desire semi-permanent hair removal. People with darker skin tones or tanned skin might not get the same results, but with new laser technology, it is possible that you could benefit to some degree.

Treatment Area

Laser hair removal is safe for most areas of the body, especially large areas like the legs, arms, back, and under the arms. Hair removal around the eyes (including the brows) should never be done with a laser since there is a risk of the laser damaging your eyes. Similarly, small areas like the upper lip or chin might be better treated with tweezing or waxing if you are only concerned about occasional hairs. However, these areas can be treated if you have thicker hair that grows rapidly.

Gradual Results

Laser hair removal will eventually give you permanently smooth skin, but patients should not expect to get these results in one treatment, unlike waxing or shaving. Individual hair follicles grow in different cycles so it will take anywhere from 4-6 laser hair removal sessions before you see the results. This is important to keep in mind if you are preparing for a big event or holiday.

Schedule a Consultation

If you think you are a candidate for laser hair removal and want to learn more, schedule a consultation at Rocheford Plastic Surgery in Woodbury, MN. Our providers will help you to determine whether you are a candidate and can discuss your treatment and laser hair removal cost in more detail.