Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal has become an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure for men and women with unwanted hair. Waxing, plucking, and tweezing can be tedious, and unwanted hair on the face and body can be frustrating and embarrassing. Laser hair removal is a safe and effective non-invasive option approved by the FDA for permanent hair reduction. There is little to no downtime associated with laser hair removal, and patients can resume their daily activities following treatment. Laser hair removal can successfully eliminate unwanted hair in patients of all skin types and skin tones without any adverse side effects when performed by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC.
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that has evolved over the years and provides an effective way to remove and prevent unwanted hair growth in a short series of treatment sessions. The laser selectively targets the pigment in hair follicles to eliminate unwanted hair without damaging the surrounding skin. Dr. Green uses two different laser hair removal devices and selects the appropriate laser technology based on your skin tone. Patients with light skin tones are treated with the GentleLase® Laser, while patients with darker skin tones are treated with the GentleYAG® laser. Whether targeting small areas, such as the upper lip, or large areas, such as the back, laser hair removal will leave you with beautiful, smooth, hair-free skin in just a short series of treatment sessions. If you’re ready to permanently get rid of frustrating, unwanted hairs on your body, Dr. Green is here to help.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive cosmetic procedures available, including laser hair removal. She is consistently identified as one of NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy when it comes to rejuvenation treatments, and customizes the treatment plans of each patient to incorporate a combination of the cosmetic procedures and specially formulated skincare products best suited to their specific needs and aesthetic goals. Dr. Green has been performing the best laser hair removal for her NYC dermatology patients, using state-of-the-art laser technology, for over two decades and will provide you with smooth, beautiful, hair-free skin.
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that eliminates unwanted hair from the face and body. The laser technology relies on light energy that targets the pigment in the unwanted hair in the treatment area. The light energy is absorbed by the pigment in the hair shaft and converted into heat, damaging the hair follicle and preventing or delaying new hair growth. Laser hair removal treatment is only effective against hair in the active growth phase, which is why several treatment sessions are required. Laser hair removal treatment produces long-lasting results, although some patients may need to engage in maintenance treatment sessions on occasion to keep their skin hair-free. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends having laser hair removal treatment with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, to guarantee the best results and prevent unwanted side effects.
There are various lasers designed for permanent hair removal. Intense pulsed light (IPL) is one of the original hair removal devices and is a popular laser treatment as it can treat multiple skin conditions besides permanent hair reduction, including rosacea and pigmentation. Following the advent of the IPL, other more highly targeted lasers were developed. The newer, more advanced laser technology has created lasers with unique laser light to treat patients with light skin and darker skin tones. Using the correct laser and treatment settings for each patient’s skin type is critical to avoid any unwanted side effects. In her private NYC dermatology office, Dr. Michele Green utilizes the Candela GentleLase® laser for light skin tones and the Candela GentleYAG® laser for dark skin tones since they have a proven track record due to their safety and efficacy.
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser targets the pigment, known as melanin, in the hair shaft in the treatment area. The melanin within the hair follicle absorbs the laser energy and converts it into heat, destroying the hair follicle while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. During the laser hair removal treatment, the hair follicles in the growth phase are damaged, while the hair follicles in the dormant stage are unaffected. As such, multiple treatment sessions are needed to achieve permanent hair reduction in a given treatment area. The next laser hair treatment is scheduled when the new hair emerges during growth.
Since each area of the body has a different rate of hair growth, the amount of time between treatments will differ for various areas of the body. Most laser hair removal treatments will typically need six sessions, spaced four to eight weeks apart, depending on the area of the body being treated. The efficacy of the laser hair removal treatment depends on the pigmentation within the hair follicle itself. The ideal candidate for laser hair removal has dark hair. Patients with white, grey, or red hair color cannot be treated by laser hair removal since there is little melanin in the hair follicles. In these cases, patients must rely on different hair removal methods, such as electrolysis, for permanent hair reduction.
Laser treatment options for light and dark skin tones
Dr. Michele Green’s New York City office has the latest laser technology to deliver fast, effective treatments for unwanted hair for both men and women. Unlike some practices that only use a single laser, we offer two different lasers tailored to the unique needs of lighter and darker skin tones. Patients with light skin color would be treated with the Syneron-Candela GentleLase laser, while patients with darker skin color will be treated with the Syneron-Candela GentleYag laser, a laser hair removal system specifically designed for patients with darker skin color.
- GentleLase® for Light Skin—GentleLase® is a remarkable hair reduction treatment that is quick, painless, and has no downtime. It removes hair while simultaneously cooling the skin to increase patient comfort. This laser is most often used for lighter skin tones. Patients with a combination of dark hair and light skin are the best candidates for permanent hair removal from Syneron-Candela’s GentleLase.
- GentleYAG® for Dark Skin – Regardless of your skin type, whether you are Asian, Mediterranean, Latin, Indian, American, African American, or have tanned skin, the GentleYag® can painlessly and quickly laser your unwanted hair with no downtime. This Nd: YAG laser is designed for all darker skin tones to safely remove unwanted hair without adverse side effects.
What areas can be treated with laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal on the body is becoming more popular for both men and women. Body hair removal is often done for aesthetic and personal taste reasons. It can be performed on virtually any body area except the delicate eyelid region. Laser hair removal is most commonly used to remove hair in the axillae (armpits), legs, arms, abdomen, arms, bikini line, face, and upper lip. Some women also prefer a “Brazilian” bikini treatment to remove all of the unwanted hair in the bikini area. The most commonly treated areas for laser hair removal in men are the back, chest, and shoulders. You will have silky, smooth skin when you finish your laser hair removal.
Why choose laser hair removal over other methods?
Shaving, plucking, waxing, and tweezing are time-consuming hair reduction methods that only provide temporary results and can be associated with various types of skin irritation, including ingrown hairs. On the other hand, laser hair removal treatment offers patients a painless alternative that produces more permanent hair reduction results. Laser hair removal treatment is not only safe and effective but is also an extremely accessible option for patients who want to achieve smooth, hair-free skin. Laser hair removal treatment can be used for patients of all skin types and skin tones, and depending on the treatment area, a laser hair removal treatment session can be completed in as little as 20 minutes. There are very few potential side effects when laser hair removal treatment is performed under the supervision of an experienced medical professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive treatment options available, including laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal for transgender patients
Transitioning can be a long and difficult process. For many individuals identifying as transgender, unwanted hair on the face and body can present as a persistent frustration. Shaving, waxing, and plucking are only temporary solutions that are time-consuming and can lead to skin irritation and ingrown hairs. Patients who are transgender can benefit from including laser hair removal treatment as part of their gender confirmation process due to the accessibility and efficacy of treatment, the longevity of results, and the painless process.
Additionally, when having laser hair removal treatment with a medical professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC, transgender patients may potentially be eligible for coverage for the procedure by their individual insurance companies. It is important to contact your individual insurance to determine benefits. Laser hair removal treatment is safe for patients before, during, and after hormone replacement therapy. The laser hair removal treatment may be somewhat longer for patients actively transitioning, as changing hormone levels can affect hair growth patterns. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to establish a timeline for your treatment that aligns with your needs and goals.
Laser hair removal for patients with PCOS
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, PCOS, is a medical condition associated with fluctuations in various hormone levels. In particular, PCOS causes increased androgen levels, or male sex hormones such as testosterone, that play a role in developing and maintaining male characteristics. Elevated androgen levels in females can cause symptoms such as acne, weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, and hair thinning. Hirsutism may also occur, in which dark, coarse hair is grown in patterns similar to body hair growth around the face, chest, back, stomach, and arms. The exact underlying cause of PCOS remains largely unknown, though it is thought to have a genetic component as it tends to run in families. Some diagnostic tests can be performed, including an Ultrasound of the ovaries and hormonal blood tests, to evaluate patients for PCOS.
Patients with PCOS tend to have thicker and darker unwanted hair in many visible areas of the body, which, for many, can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and low self-esteem. Laser hair removal treatment offers patients with PCOS a long-lasting solution for eliminating unwanted hair from the face and body to help patients feel confident and comfortable in their skin. Patients with PCOS should remember that more maintenance treatment sessions may be required than an individual without PCOS, as PCOS can be managed but not permanently cured. Future fluctuations in hormone levels may trigger additional hair growth, which can effectively be treated with laser hair removal. Dr. Green will work with you in her private Upper East Side dermatology office to develop a timeline for your laser hair removal treatment that works best for your needs.
Laser hair removal for ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs are hairs that have grown back into the skin instead of up and out of the hair follicle. Ingrown hairs appear as inflamed, red bumps and may be accompanied by tenderness, irritation, and itchiness. Many patients who suffer from ingrown hairs tend to develop what is known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which occurs when inflammation or injury to the skin causes an increase in melanin production as part of the natural wound-healing process. While PIH can resolve on its own over time, it tends to take long periods of time to achieve an even skin tone again. Patients who struggle with ingrown hair typically have recurring breakouts due to their existing hair removal methods or the natural hair growth pattern in the affected area. Other hair removal methods, including shaving, plucking, and tweezing, may cause ingrown hairs. Dr. Green often recommends laser hair removal treatment to prevent uncomfortable breakouts of ingrown hairs and the development of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Laser hair removal is considered the most effective treatment option for ingrown hairs because it targets the root of the hair follicle itself. By destroying the hair follicle, laser hair removal treatment prevents new hair growth in the treatment area, thereby preventing ingrown hairs.
What is the laser hair removal procedure like?
The procedure for laser hair removal is quick, easy, and painless. Before having laser hair removal, you should refrain from waxing, tweezing, or plucking your hair for two weeks before treatment. Abstaining from waxing is critical as waxing removes the hair root, which will need to be present in order to have an effective laser hair removal session. While it is not necessary to shave before the procedure, you can continue to shave until the day before your appointment. Any bleaching creams should be discontinued in the treatment area two to three weeks before the procedure. In addition, laser hair removal should not be performed on tanned skin, whether from sun exposure, tanning beds, or tanning creams. If your skin is tan, the laser will interpret your tanned skin as pigmentation with increased melanin, and you may be more susceptible to a laser burn. Sun exposure and deep tanning should be avoided before laser hair removal and immediately after treatment to ensure that no adverse side effects occur.
If needed, the hair in the treatment area may be trimmed before the procedure. Special goggles will be placed to protect the eyes from the laser beam. The laser will then be activated, and the laser energy will enter into the hair follicles, converting to heat energy to damage and destroy the hair follicle. The duration of the procedure will depend upon the thickness of the hair and the size of the area being treated, as the lasers will typically treat one circular one-inch area at a time. As such, smaller areas, such as the upper lip, will be much faster to treat compared to larger areas, such as the back.
How long does laser hair removal treatment take?
The length of each treatment session depends on the thickness of the hair and the size of the area being treated. Generally, the lasers will treat a circular area of around an inch at a time, and treating an area such as the upper lip will be much faster than larger areas such as the legs or back. The upper lip can take as little as five minutes. Laser hair removal of unwanted hair on a man’s back can take thirty minutes. In all cases, Dr. Michele Green can help design the best treatment plan for your hair removal needs.
What is the aftercare for laser hair removal?
To achieve and maintain the best results after laser hair removal treatment, Dr. Green recommends that her patients adhere to several aftercare instructions. When you have your laser hair removal treatment with internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City, she will provide you with all of the pertinent aftercare information required to obtain optimal results. Immediately following laser hair removal treatment, some minimal redness and bumps may occur at the treatment site. Typically, these will resolve shortly after treatment. Do not utilize any other methods of hair removal, such as tweezing, waxing, or depilatories, during the course of treatment, as it will hinder the effectiveness of the laser hair removal treatment. Laser hair removal is a photosensitizing cosmetic procedure, meaning that after treatment, the skin is extra sensitive to UV light. Sun exposure after laser hair removal treatment can cause significant skin damage, including hyperpigmentation and scarring. For maximum sun protection, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher throughout the course of treatment.
Patients should refrain from applying skincare products, including makeup, body lotion, moisturizer, or deodorant, for at least 24 hours and until any skin irritation following the procedure resolves. The treatment area should not be exfoliated physically with a scrubber or chemically with skincare products for at least 72 hours following laser hair removal. After 5 to 30 days post-treatment, you may start to notice shedding in conjunction with new hair growth. These are not new hairs, but instead dead hairs being pushed out of the hair follicles. It is important to continuously keep the skin in the treatment area hydrated, as a moisturizer will help to exfoliate the dead hair in the area. Be sure to avoid using moisturizers with alpha-hydroxy acids to minimize any risk of irritation. The unwanted hair in the treatment area will begin to shed within two weeks of the laser hair removal procedure and may continue for several weeks. Laser hair removal treatment sessions should be scheduled 4-8 weeks apart, depending on the area of the body.
Is laser hair removal painful?
Typically, laser hair removal is not a painful procedure and feels a little like a warm pinprick or a “rubber band” snapping against your skin. For patients who find laser hair removal uncomfortable or are having treatment in more sensitive areas, a topical numbing cream can be applied for 30 minutes before the treatment. Additionally, both hair removal lasers Dr. Green utilizes are equipped with Cryogen, a special coolant that lowers the skin temperature and makes the procedure much more tolerable. This Dynamic Cooling Device helps to make the laser hair removal treatment much more comfortable.
Before and After photo of laser hair removal (arms / female)
What are the side effects of laser hair removal?
Common side effects of laser hair removal include a mild amount of redness, swelling, bumps, or discomfort in the treatment area. These side effects typically resolve on their own shortly after the laser hair removal procedure, within three days of the treatment session. Having treatment with an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in NYC, eliminates the risk of encountering more serious side effects, such as hyperpigmentation, blisters, burns, infection, or scarring. These unwanted side effects can occur for various reasons, such as the use of the wrong laser or settings for a patient’s particular skin type. Dr. Green was among the first dermatologists in NYC to offer laser hair removal treatment to her patients in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood and will help you achieve and maintain smooth, clear, beautiful, hair-free skin without the risk of any unwanted side effects.
Laser hair removal FAQs:
Is laser removal permanent?
Yes! After approximately six laser hair removal treatments, depending on the treatment area, you will be hair-free in that area from then on. Laser hair removal works by destroying the hair follicle in its growth phase. Not all hair follicles will be in the growth phase simultaneously in the treatment area, so multiple treatments are needed to receive permanent smoothness and hairlessness on your skin.
Does laser hair removal hurt? Is laser hair removal sore?
Laser hair removal is a safe procedure requiring no recovery time or downtime. During the procedure, most patients report minimal discomfort as the treatment occurs. As the laser is applied to the skin, it feels like a rubber band is lightly snapping the treatment area. If this is a source of discomfort for you, Dr. Green can apply a topical numbing cream or lotion approximately 30 minutes before beginning treatment. The type of laser used in the procedure can also determine the level of discomfort. Additionally, the two lasers used in Dr. Green’s private NYC dermatology office, the GentleLase and GentleYAG lasers, both contain Dynamic Cooling Devices that keep the skin cool during the laser treatment.
Is laser treatment for hair removal safe?
Yes! Dr. Green has been safely and effectively performing laser hair removal at her Upper East Side office for many years. Dr. Green uses two different types of lasers to ensure each patient’s safety regardless of skin type and complexion. Previously, laser hair removal was only recommended for patients with light skin and dark hair. With the advent of the GentleYAG laser, Dr. Green can safely and effectively treat patients with dark skin tones or tanned skin. The GentleLase for lighter skin types and the GentleYAG for darker skin types both employ Dynamic Cooling Technology to protect and cool the skin while removing the hair follicle. With Dr. Green’s expert technique, laser hair removal treatment is safe and effective.
Laser hair removal can have dangerous side effects when administered at home or by someone who is not an expert. Using the wrong laser for your skin type can lead to burns or discoloration. In addition, MedSpas and other clinics generally do not have staff who are well-trained in laser technology. To avoid possible adverse side effects, it is best to schedule your laser hair removal with an expert cosmetic dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, in NYC. Dr. Michele Green has treated patients in the Upper East Side of New York for over 25 years.
Does laser hair removal work?
Yes, laser hair removal is highly effective at destroying hair follicles to keep the treatment area hair-free permanently. The laser emits a wavelength of light that penetrates the layers of your skin and is absorbed into the hair follicle while it is in its growth phase. The light energy is converted into heat, which destroys the hair follicle permanently, while the cooling technology in the laser keeps the layers of your skin safe from any damage. The treatment must be repeated to eliminate all hair follicles, as the laser only destroys them in their growth phase. The number of times the treatment needs to be repeated depends upon the treatment area and the thickness of the hair. Once you have received sufficient treatments, you should experience almost permanent hair reduction in that treatment area.
Which laser hair removal is best?
When patients ask which is the best laser hair removal machine, the answer is that it depends. Dr. Green uses two lasers in her office for hair removal: GentleLase and GentleYAG. Both lasers are extremely effective in destroying the hair follicles responsible for unwanted hair growth and contain cooling technology that keeps your skin safe and discomfort minimal. GentleLase is best for treating patients with light skin and dark hair. The Alexandrite laser uses long-pulse, high-energy technology to eliminate hair follicles effectively. GentleYAG, on the other hand, is designed specifically to treat patients with dark or tan skin and uses a 1064 wavelength. Both lasers can be used to remove unwanted hair anywhere on the body. Other commonly used laser hair removal devices include IPL and diode laser technology. The “best” laser depends on your skin tone, skin type, and type of hair being treated. When you schedule your consultation with Dr. Green, she will assess your treatment area and determine your best treatment plan.
How long will laser hair removal last?
Laser hair removal treatment produces long-lasting results that, for many, provide permanent hair reduction in the treatment area. Once multiple treatments have been performed to target all hair follicles while in the active hair growth phase, laser hair removal can last forever. The treatment is a relatively permanent solution for hair removal across many body parts, including the face, back, arms, chest, bikini line, and legs. Some patients may need to occasionally engage in maintenance treatment sessions to keep the treatment area completely hair-free and smooth.
Can you get laser hair removal when pregnant?
Pregnancy causes hormone levels to shift, leading to changes in and on the body. Some pregnant women experience increased hair growth across their bodies, and shaving can become increasingly challenging with a growing baby bump. Therefore, some pregnant women want to turn to laser hair removal to rid themselves of excess hair. However, the effects of laser hair removal on pregnant women have not been tested in clinical trials. For that reason, Dr. Green recommends that you do not receive laser hair removal treatment while pregnant to avoid any possible adverse side effects. If you are experiencing excessive hair growth in unwanted areas during pregnancy, you can consult with Dr. Green about other possible solutions.
Do at-home laser hair removal devices work?
At-home laser hair removal devices have become increasingly popular, and many may initially find them appealing due to their convenience and relatively low cost. Laser hair removal requires multiple treatment sessions because of the natural hair growth cycle, and each laser hair removal treatment can cost several hundred dollars. In contrast, at-home laser hair devices can be purchased online for just $400-500. This may seem like a great investment at first. However, at-home laser hair removal treatments have several drawbacks. These devices are only suitable for certain candidates and are not technologically advanced enough to safely treat patients with darker skin tones. The at-home laser hair removal devices are much smaller than professional-level machines and less powerful, making at-home devices a poor choice for treating large areas. Even for smaller areas, at-home laser hair removal devices may not be powerful enough to result in completely hair-free skin.
At-home laser hair removal treatments are also labeled as “cosmetic devices” and do not require FDA approval before entering the market. Thus, the safety and efficacy of these devices are poorly regulated. Furthermore, compared to having professional treatment with a board-certified dermatologist, there is a higher risk of overtreating an area with an at-home device and, as a result, experiencing unwanted side effects, such as burns or hyperpigmentation. With these considerations, it is typically safer and more cost-effective in the long run to go to a board-certified dermatologist to ensure the laser hair removal procedure is done correctly and results in permanent hair removal.
Does laser hair removal cause cancer?
No. Laser hair removal treatment with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, is an FDA-approved cosmetic procedure that is safe and effective for semi-permanent hair reduction. Laser hair removal is not associated with any known long-term side effects and does not cause cancer. In fact, laser treatments are often used to treat lesions that could be early signs of cancer, such as sun spots and moles. Laser hair removal is perfectly safe, especially when an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, performs your treatment.
How much is laser hair removal?
The total cost of laser hair removal treatment ultimately depends on several contributing factors, including the geographic location of the office in which you are treated, the experience level of your provider, the size of the treatment area, and the total number of treatment sessions required to achieve your ideal results. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost for a single treatment session for laser hair removal was approximately $424 in 2024. Laser hair removal can be performed on many body areas, including the face, arms, underarms, back, chest, legs, and pelvic area. The cost of laser hair removal treatment typically increases as the size of the treatment area increases.
The type of institution at which you receive laser hair removal treatment is also a key factor in determining how expensive the treatment will be. If you elect to receive treatment at a MedSpa, it can be less expensive than receiving treatment from an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in New York City. However, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends always having laser hair removal treatment with a board-certified dermatologist to guarantee the best results and prevent unwanted side effects such as burns or hyperpigmentation. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan for unwanted hair removal and skin rejuvenation that best suits your specific concerns and ideal aesthetic goals. The total cost of laser hair removal treatment can be determined at that time.
Laser hair removal on arms before and after
How many sessions for laser hair removal?
After the first laser hair removal session, you can expect to see a 10-25% reduction of the hair in the treated area. Patients generally need approximately six treatment sessions to see a near-permanent reduction of unwanted hair. The GentleYag and GentleLase lasers both have the same re-treatment period. Facial re-treatments are generally scheduled 4 to 10 weeks apart. Laser hair removal to treat the face is scheduled every four weeks, the bikini area and axillae (armpits) are generally scheduled every 4 to 6 weeks, while arms and legs may be planned every 8 to 10 weeks. Patients should have their laser hair treatments performed at the right time intervals to coincide with the growth cycles of the hair in the different regions of the body for the most effective laser hair removal treatment.
Is laser hair removal worth it?
Laser hair removal with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, is a safe and effective procedure to remove unwanted body hair or facial hair. After approximately six treatment sessions of laser hair removal, 90% of patients experience permanent hair reduction in the treatment area. While many at-home laser hair removal devices are available online, these devices can be more harmful than beneficial. Not all at-home laser hair removal treatments have been approved by the FDA. Additionally, patients tend to be too aggressive with at-home treatments, incorrectly assuming that intensifying treatment will produce results more quickly. Unwanted side effects can include permanent skin damage. Consulting with a dermatologist like Dr. Green guarantees the best results and prevents unwanted side effects. Whether choosing to undergo laser hair removal to reduce the time needed between shaving, have hair-free skin for warm weather, or prevent ingrown hairs, it is worth it!
Can you get laser hair removal for Brazilian?
Absolutely! Laser hair removal is very safe, even in more intimate regions. Brazilian hair removal can be done in the office to leave the skin completely bare or mostly bare, depending on personal preference. A session of Brazilian laser hair removal treatment takes approximately 20 minutes. Intimate regions can be more sensitive to laser hair removal treatment, and a topical anesthetic can be applied to the area prior to the appointment to minimize any discomfort or pain during the procedure.
Who can perform laser hair removal?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends having laser hair removal treatments with a medical professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC. While many med spas may offer laser hair removal, it can not be guaranteed that the provider has had the thorough training required to safely and appropriately utilize the laser technology to remove unwanted hair. Potential unwanted side effects of laser treatment can include blistering, hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and even scarring. These side effects typically occur when an inappropriate laser setting is used for a given patient. Having laser hair removal with an experienced board-certified dermatologist helps eliminate the risk of encountering unwanted side effects and guarantees the best cosmetic results.
What is electrolysis for hair removal?
Electrolysis is a hair removal method that uses heat energy to eliminate hair growth. During treatment, a very fine wire is inserted into the hair follicle, sending a current of electricity that is converted into heat energy to kill the hair follicle and root itself. A dermatologist may use various types of electrolysis, such as thermolysis, which uses heat alone, and galvanic electrolysis, which mixes heat and other chemicals to destroy the hair follicle. Electrolysis treats one hair follicle at a time to eliminate the hair and prevent regrowth. This method of hair removal can used in many areas of the body, including the abdomen, bikini line, breasts, eyebrows, face, legs, and thighs. The amount of sessions necessary for permanent hair removal will depend on the size of the area being treated. Typically, electrolysis treatment sessions are repeated once a week or every other week to remove the unwanted hair completely. In some cases, it can take up to a year or more to complete an entire series of treatments.
Do you shave before laser hair removal?
Yes. Patients should shave the treatment area no less than 24 hours before laser hair removal. It is better not to shave immediately before the appointment, as this can increase the chance of swelling and irritation in the treatment area. Shaving is an important part of preparing for the laser hair removal treatment because it ensures the hair is an appropriate length. If you forget to shave at home before your laser hair removal treatment procedure, the hair in the treatment area can be shaved in the office. While shaving is recommended, patients should not tweeze, pluck, wax, or thread the area between laser hair removal treatments, as these hair removal methods remove the hair strand from the follicle, rendering the laser hair treatment ineffective. When you have laser hair removal with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, you will receive all the pertinent information regarding laser hair removal preparation and aftercare.
How do I begin my laser hair removal today?
Unwanted hair can be a frustrating problem for men and women alike. For many, unwanted hair on the face and body can cause feelings of self-consciousness. Waxing, plucking, and tweezing are time-consuming methods of hair removal that produce incredibly short-lived results. Thankfully, laser hair removal has become one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures in the world due to the ease of removing unwanted hairs with excellent, long-lasting results. Most patients will experience permanent hair reduction from laser hair removal with a short series of quick and easy treatments. Dr. Green was among the first dermatologists in New York City to offer laser hair removal to her patients in the Upper East Side and has been performing the best laser hair removal, using state-of-the-art laser technology, for over two decades.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients worldwide with the best non-invasive cosmetic procedures available, including laser hair removal, Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling, chemical peels, and more. She is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, The New York Times, and New York Magazine for her expertise and dedication to her patients. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan best suited to your specific concerns and ideal aesthetic goals. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green, please contact us online today or call the NYC office at 212-535-3088.