Shaved hair grows back within a day, and waxing requires regrowth between sessions, so many of our patients come to us looking for another, longer-lasting way to manage unwanted hair. Laser hair removal offers the solution, reducing hair growth in the treated area and minimizing the need for constant maintenance. At Severn River Medspa, we use the Lumenis LightSheer diode laser to provide laser hair removal in Severna Park and Annapolis, MD.
Why Switch to Laser Hair Removal?
Every type of hair removal has its perks and downsides. To keep the skin smooth, shaving needs to be done almost every day, which adds time to the morning or evening routine and comes with the hassle of having to purchase razors and shaving cream. Waxing is a painful alternative that removes the hair from the follicle, but leaves the follicle intact. Both of these methods come with a higher risk of ingrown hairs and other types of irritation.
Another option is hair removal creams, but these can also irritate the skin and cause it to be dry and sensitive. These creams also do not work as well on thicker hair. Laser hair removal solves many of these concerns, and while it is a commitment at first, it will save time in the long run and prevent discomfort.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser devices target the pigment that is present in the hair inside the hair follicle. As the melanin attracts this light, the energy is converted to heat, which damages the follicle enough to slow or stop future growth. During these treatments, the surrounding skin is unaffected because the energy penetrates below the surface. The Lumenis LightSheer diode laser also provides built-in cooling to keep the surface of the skin more comfortable when treating smaller areas where precision is key. All of our treatments are performed with the oversight of board-certified facial plastic surgeons using settings that are customized to your skin and hair types.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
During your first appointment, your provider will evaluate your skin tone, hair color, hair thickness and potential treatment areas to decide on the correct laser settings. They will explain what to expect from your treatment plan and results. Usually, patients can expect a 70-90% reduction in hair after a full series of treatments, which can be anywhere from six to eight sessions. There will be a complete and transparent explanation of the process and results because of our patient-centric care philosophy.
How to Prepare in the Weeks and Days Before Laser Hair Removal
- Skin Care Adjustments: Stop using retinoids and strong exfoliants at least seven days before your appointment to reduce skin sensitivity and prevent possible adverse reactions.
- Sun Exposure and Self-Tanner: Tanned skin has more melanin at the surface, which can increase the risk of discomfort or pigmentation changes. Avoid direct sun and self-tanners for a full week before your treatment and wear SPF 30 or higher every day.
- Shaving vs. Waxing: You will shave the treatment area 24 hours before your appointment. Do not wax, pluck or thread since these treatments remove the hair needed to attract the laser light.
- Medications and Supplements That Can Affect Treatment: Some medications and supplements increase the skin’s light sensitivity. Let your provider know everything you are currently taking.
What the Treatment Feels Like
Even with the cooling technology, the laser device can cause a snapping sensation on the skin that can be uncomfortable. This is tolerated well by most patients and is not as painful as waxing. Small areas like the underarms or upper lip take just a few minutes. Larger areas like the legs, arms, back or chest take longer. You may have some redness and sensitivity after the treatment, so plan to keep your skin out of the sun and use gentler products while your body heals.
Are You a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
This treatment works best on dark, coarse hair that has plenty of melanin. People with blonde, white or gray hair are not candidates for laser hair removal. Diode lasers can treat a wide range of complexions, including darker skin tones, but you will need a consultation to determine whether this treatment is suitable for you. Patients with hormonal conditions like PCOS may need additional sessions or maintenance treatments to continue enjoying smooth, hair-free skin.
How to Know If Laser Hair Removal Is Right for You
A consultation is the best place to start. At Severn River Medspa, our team of board-certified physicians, physician assistants and laser specialists will assess your skin and answer all of your questions. Call us at 410-401-8839 or book your consultation online at our Severna Park or Annapolis location.