Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal New Jersey

Laser hair removal is an alternative to shaving, plucking, and waxing. Plucking and waxing can stimulate hair follicles, promote more vigorous growth, and cause scars, allergic reactions, and ingrown hairs. Electrolysis is effective but often requires years of ongoing, expensive treatments.

Laser hair removal targets the pigment inside the hair follicle without damaging the delicate pore or surrounding skin. For this reason, it is a safe, effective way to eliminate unwanted hair anywhere on the body. After repeated treatments—usually 4 to 7—laser hair removal is permanent.

Your Consultation

A consultation for laser hair removal includes a thorough discussion of your desires, expectations, and concerns. Your surgeon will review your medical history and explain the procedure to you, including its limits and risks. He or she also will carefully examine your skin and tell you how long it will take to eliminate your unwanted hair.

The Procedure

Summit Medical Group uses today’s most technologically advanced lasers. The procedure is performed in our ambulatory surgery center, and no anesthetic is needed. If you experience discomfort, however, a topical anesthetic can be applied.

The laser produces high-energy light that makes the hair stop growing. The type of laser your surgeon will use depends on your skin and hair color. A single treatment may reduce thickness and density of hair, while multiple treatments often can permanently eliminate hair.

Recovery and Results

For 2 weeks before your treatment, do not bleach or pluck the hair that will be removed. Laser hair removal side effects are rare, but you also should avoid the procedure if you have a suntan or sunburn. If you have cold sores or genital herpes, you should begin taking the appropriate medications before your laser hair removal procedure.

If you shave, it will speed your treatment time if you leave visible stubble in the areas to be treated.

It is common to see some redness and bumps after your procedure. You may use a cold compress to reduce the redness and any swelling.

Until your hair follicles have had a chance to heal for 2 to 3 days, you should:

• Use little or no makeup
• Use moisturizer that your surgeon has approved
• Use a sun block with an SPF of 25 or more
• Avoid all other hair removal approaches except shaving
• Gently exfoliate (do not scrub) treated areas with a loofah sponge or washcloth

While repeated treatments usually provide permanent hair removal, many patients have sessions once or twice a year to ensure that no unwanted hair returns.

The laser hair removal pictures here represent typical hair reduction results from laser treatments.

Call Summit Medical Group today at 908-277-8759 to make an appointment or for more information about how laser hair removal can remove troublesome unwanted hair.