Laser Hair Removal

Ideal laser hair removal patients are men and women over the age of 18 with unwanted facial and body hair. However, some patients may experience more effective treatment based on skin tone and the color of the hair. Patients with light skin and dark hair tend to achieve the best results, although patients with different skin tones and hair colors can still benefit from this procedure.

Just as each individual is different, everyone has different patterns of hair growth largely determined by genetics, and hair growth patterns can shift as a result of hormonal and biological shifts that occur with each new phase of life. In rare cases, abnormal hair growth can be linked to abnormalities in the endocrine system. Fortunately, our practice performs both cosmetic and medical procedures, and we pride ourselves on taking our patients’ physical health as well as aesthetic needs into account when developing a treatment plan.

Another important aspect of laser hair removal is realistic expectations. While this procedure is the most technically advanced and successful method of permanently eliminating unwanted hair, this outcome does require multiple treatments. The reason for this is that hair grows in cycles, and laser hair removal can only effectively eliminate hair in its active growing phase. While hair is dormant, there is insufficient pigment for the laser to target. By conducting laser hair removal treatments every couple of weeks, we can target the hair that was dormant during the prior treatment.

The first aspect of any cosmetic treatment at Ironwood Dermatology is a consultation. During this time, you will meet with one of our healthcare professionals to discuss your goals, have your skin evaluated, and develop a treatment plan that meets your aesthetic and financial needs. We like to discuss your overall skin health, with the intention of developing a regimen that eliminates the need for more intensive procedures and ensures that your skin will be healthy and hair free.

After the consultation, we will schedule your first laser hair removal treatment. Depending on the number and size of the areas being treated, the appointment may last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. In the weeks leading up to the appointment, it may be beneficial to limit any shaving or waxing of the area, since the laser targets the follicle, and waxing and shaving may decrease the effectiveness of the laser hair removal. It’s also beneficial to avoid intense sun exposure in the weeks leading up to and following your treatment.

During the treatment, we will adjust the laser for the color, thickness, and location of the hair being treated. Patients with sensitive skin can request a topical cream that will help anesthetize the area. For most patients, laser hair removal is less painful than waxing, and most people compare it to snapping a rubber band against the skin.

Laser hair removal is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in recent years, with advancements in laser technology increasing the effectiveness and safety of the procedure. Laser hair removal is one of the treatments commonly referred to as a “lunchtime procedure” owing to the speed of the treatment, which can be performed during a lunch break, after which you can return to work and your normal routine with no downtime.

While side effects are uncommon, they can include skin irritation such as redness, swelling, or blistering and temporary pigment changes of the affected area. However, selecting a licensed and experienced dermatologist to perform your laser hair removal procedure is the most effective method of minimizing side effects and increasing satisfaction with the procedure.

The cost of laser hair removal in Arizona can vary depending on the number and size of the areas being treated, as well as the number of treatments required. On average, patients require six to eight treatment sessions to completely eliminate hair. During the consultation, we will discuss the costs of hair removal and develop a treatment plan that works with your budget.