With unwanted body hair a constant concern for anyone looking for smoother, brighter skin, the number of temporary removal methods hasn’t solved the core issue: hair grows back quickly.Today, laser hair removal has emerged as the leading therapy option for achieving long-term hair reduction, offering a simple and sophisticated solution that traditional methods like shaving, waxing, and plucking simply cannot match.

Laser hair removal treatments are safer and more effective for all skin types than ever before. Understanding how laser hair removal works and what to expect can help make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

Modern laser hair removal treatment operates on a principle known as selective photothermolysis, which involves matching a specific wavelength of light and pulse length to target hair without affecting surrounding skin. When the laser emits light energy, it is absorbed by melanin, the pigment that gives hair its dark color. The melanin in the hair shaft and follicle absorbs this light energy, converting it to heat to destroy the hair follicle, preventing or delaying future hair growth in that spot.

While laser hair removal is effective and leads to longer time between treatments, it is important to remember that repeated treatments increase their effectiveness. Along the way, you may notice that the hair where you received treatment may begin to grow in more slowly, with less color and thickness.

Laser Hair Removal for Darker Skin Tones

Early laser technology failed to safely distinguish between the melanin in the skin and the melanin in the hair follicle, leading to risks of burns, scarring, and hyper- or hypopigmentation. However, modern laser technology has expanded treatment options for people with darker complexions. For those with dark skin tones, Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank recommends selecting areas for treatment where the hair is significantly darker than the skin, so the laser is able to detect the hair follicle safely and effectively.

A Combined Approach to Hair Removal Lasers

Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank continues to develop and research the latest technology in laser hair removal, and a combination of treatments and lasers is always the gold standard for laser hair removal. “There is no single laser that treats all skin types and does it effectively,” he shares.

LightSheer Desire

Designed to quickly remove hair from large areas such as the back and legs with minimal discomfort, this technology also reduces the sensation of heat and is highly effective for small, delicate areas. Penetrating deeper layers of the skin and targeting the hair follicle, treatments decrease the chance of hair regrowth, even after a single, quick treatment.

Motus AX Laser by DEKA

This laser, often used to target areas of lighter hair or darker skin tones, offers long-lasting results with a 20mm sapphire tip that moves evenly over specific areas of the body to remove unwanted hair over a series of treatments.

What to Expect with Laser Hair Removal

At your consultation, your provider will discuss your hair removal expectations and overall aesthetic and longevity goals. Treatment areas may include upper lips, arms, legs, underarms, bikini line, and back, including any ingrown hairs or sensitive areas.

Proper preparation is essential for optimal results and safety. Your provider will discuss with you how to prepare for your treatment, and may include guidance in shaving the area, while avoiding waxing, plucking, or using depilatory or hair removal creams for at least four to six weeks before treatment. Avoiding sun exposure and tanning for several weeks before your appointment is also important.

On treatment day, expect a straightforward procedure with cleaning, protective eyewear, and application of the laser.

The sensation during hair removal may vary; some patients describe slight stinging, but rest assured that in professional settings, your provider takes care to use cooling systems to soothe any discomfort.

If you are looking for one-and-done laser hair removal treatment, be advised to set that expectation aside. Because hair growth works in stages, it’s important to schedule monthly hair removal for optimal results. Expect six to eight treatments, every four to six weeks, before the hair growth is significantly reduced.