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Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a non-surgical procedure designed to reduce undesired hair in virtually any area of the body. With the application of targeted laser energy, this treatment is capable of stopping the hair growth process at the root, allowing the hair to fall out and minimizing the possibility that it will ever grow back. Unwanted hair can often be easily and quickly removed at our medical spa with the most advanced laser technology available today: the ICON® and the Vectus® by Palomar.

The Palomar ICON® and Vectus® are industry leaders, with the latest equipment for hair removal for virtually any skin type (even dark skin) and almost any hair type (even fine hair). Laser hair removal treatments are even more cost-effective now with our highly-targeted lasers that destroy new hair growth, and they are also more comfortable for many patients, with minimal risk and downtime due to the Advanced Contact Cooling technology by Palomar.

The Palomar ICON® is located at our La Cañada location, and the Vectus® is located at our Pasadena location. During your initial consultation, we can talk with you about your needs and determine which of these state-of-the-art laser hair removal techniques will be best for your goals.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal can be an ideal treatment for unwanted hair in body areas such as the:

Laser hair removal may also be ideal for patients who suffer from a condition called pseudofolliculitis barbae (“ingrown hairs” or “shaving bumps”). This procedure has also been shown to be effective in the treatment/prevention of pilonidal cysts (ingrown hairs that cause intense localized skin irritation and infections).

One of our experienced aesthetic professionals here at Radiance Medical Spa can meet with you for an initial consultation to evaluate your skin and the areas of concern. If laser hair removal is the right option for your needs, we can develop a customized treatment plan designed to help you achieve your goals.

What Does the Laser Hair Removal Treatment Involve?

Laser hair removal has been utilized for decades and has proven to be very effective for hair reduction; however, it is important to note that, while laser hair removal can remove a significant amount of hair, it is not able to remove all hair. Most effective regimens will include several treatments (approximately 4-6) that are spaced out over the course of 4-8 weeks. The temporal spacing of treatments allows for hair growth that occurs in phases. The laser is able to destroy hair follicles only during certain phases of hair growth (anagen). Hair should fall out on its own over the following week to two weeks after each laser hair removal treatment.

During the laser hair removal procedure, the laser energy will be targeted directly into the area of undesired hair. The technique is designed to destroy the targeted hair follicles without causing harm to surrounding skin. In many cases, laser hair removal procedures take a very short time to complete and should not cause excessive discomfort; however, the length of the treatment will ultimately depend on the size and number of areas being targeted.

The Vectus® laser hair removal option offers the largest spot size for fast, comfortable coverage, and also offers a small spot size for more precise treatment areas. In fact, the Vectus® can do laser hair removal on a “whole body” in about an hour for many individuals. In some cases, however, the ICON® laser technique may be a more suitable option. We can make a recommendation as to which technique is best for your needs during the consultation.

Medications/Conditions to Avoid Prior to Treatment
Prior to your treatment, please let us know if you are on any antibiotics. Avoid sun exposure without sunscreen, as well as self-tanners, waxing, threading, and plucking for at least two weeks prior to your treatment for best results.

Is There a Recovery Period After Laser Hair Removal?

Most individuals do not need an extensive recovery period after laser hair removal. In fact, it is common for patients to resume their normal daily routines immediately, depending on the extent of treatment.

What Are the Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?

Potential side effects from laser hair removal are usually minimal for many patients. Itching, slight pinkness, redness, very mild swelling, or the feeling of a mild sunburn for a few days after the procedure are some of the most common side effects of this treatment. Other potential (but extremely rare) side effects include a change in skin color (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation), scab formation, an allergy to the gel used during the treatment, or a burn to the skin. Our provider will be happy to discuss all aspects of the laser hair removal procedure with you and address any questions or concerns you may have.

When Will I See the Results of Laser Hair Removal?

After 4-6 treatments (spaced out every 4-5 weeks for the face or every 6-8 weeks for the arms/body/legs), most patients should see a 50-80% reduction in hair. Hair that remains should be thinner, lighter in color, softer, and grow more slowly.

Would you like to learn more about laser hair removal? Please contact Radiance Medical Spa for additional information, or to schedule a consultation.