Removal of unwanted hair on the legs and elsewhere can be accomplished in several different ways, but some of these procedures are painful and most offer only temporary results. On the other hand, laser hair removal is semi-permanent because the follicles from which the hairs grow are severely damaged. This treatment is also popular because absorption of the laser energy, which is strong enough to damage follicles and render them inactive, keeps your skin stubble-free.

If you’re considering laser hair removal, keep in mind that a series of treatment sessions will have to be scheduled. This is because the treatment targets only those hair follicles that are currently active. Also, the actual tone of your hairs and skin will determine the effectiveness of the treatment. Below, we offer a few bits of information that you’ll find helpful.

How It Works

The modern laser instruments used for this treatment aren’t very powerful, but the beam of light is tightly focused. It can accurately target a single hair follicle. Some of these instruments emit a pixilated array of light beams and can focus on a larger area of skin surface, thereby targeting multiple hairs with a single pulse of energy.

The laser is calibrated to deliver a wavelength that is absorbed by a specific material tone. The darker the tone, the easier it is to calibrate the instrument. The follicles that produce the hair strand are darker when they are in an active state. During their resting phase, they lighten up a bit and are therefore unable to absorb the laser energy properly. This is why it takes several treatments to affect all of the follicles.

During the Consultation

We cannot overstate the importance of the consultation. During this visit with you, we will categorize your hair tone and skin tone. This will allow us to determine whether laser hair removal is right for you. We will let you know if the treatment will affect the health of your skin. In most cases, we will be able to calibrate the laser properly so that only the follicles are affected by the energy emitted from the laser instrument.

This is a very efficient means to get rid of unwanted hair. Laser hair removal continues to evolve as more and more advanced laser instruments become available. Find out if you’re a suitable candidate by speaking with the professionals at River Region Dermatology & Laser. We are conveniently located in Montgomery, AL. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!