Laser hair removal by Atlanta Dermatology involves passing a mildly warm laser over the area to remove hair. The laser works best on fair-skinned individuals with dark hair, but most skin colors can be treated. Permanent hair reduction is expected, usually by 60-80 percent, depending on area. Permanent hair removal in an area is not always possible, but remaining hair may be very fine and light.
No tattoos or permanent eyeliner should be exposed to the laser. Anyone with a history of herpes on the area should take their antiviral medicines beginning on the day of the procedure for three days. If tanned, blistering may occur from the treatment and the treatment will be less effective. Do not use self-tanning cream, makeup or deodorant. Darker skin types may use a skin bleach before treatment. No one who is pregnant, sunburned, flared with eczema or with collagen or light-sensitive diseases (Lupus, Dermato, KS, Vitiligo) should be treated. Retin-A, LacHydrin or Glycolic Acid should be discontinued for four days before the procedure. Patients having had Accutane, a medium or deep peel, laser resurfacing for wrinkles, scarring or liposuction in the area may require special precautions.
After laser hair removal, use a sunscreen moisturizer of 30 SPF or higher for at least 48 hours. Also, avoid strenuous exercise, sunlight, heat and sponging for 48 hours to prevent excessive redness, sensitivity, scarring or bumps from the procedure. Either no symptoms or a little redness for two to six hours may occur. If blisters develop, do not scrub the area and apply Polysporin ointment. Scarring and permanent pigmentary problems, too much or too little, are possible but extremely rare. If swelling occurs, apply ice with a soft cloth and continue as directed. Do not tweeze, wax or remove hair by any method except shaving after the treatments have started or for three weeks before treatment. Do not wear panties or tight jeans for two to three days after bikini line treatments to avoid blistering.
The treated hair will push out in approximately two weeks. There will be a certain amount of loss in four weeks in many patients. Facial laser hair removal takes about an hour or less; nonfacial areas one to three hours or more. One to four treatments every month or every other month is necessary, especially on nonfacial areas. Regrowth occurs sparsely and slowly. Complete hair removal is not possible.
Approximate single-treatment costs are $250-300 for a single small area (upper lip or bikini line) and $600 for a face or male back or chest single treatment.
For maximum safety, your laser hair removal procedure will be performed under the direct, on-site supervision of a dermatologist/dermatologic surgeon.
