Laser Hair Removal

The usual methods for removing unwanted hair include waxing, plucking, shaving and chemical depilatories. Some are messy, some are painful and all are temporary. Since its commercial introduction in the mid 1990s, Laser Hair Removal has become the preferred method of hair removal. At Rodgers Dermatology, we have an effective solution using the LightSheer™ Diode Laser.

What is Laser Hair Removal?

The LightSheer™ Diode Laser is the most advanced and effective treatment of unwanted hair. This state-of-the-art system is specially designed to remove unwanted hair faster, with less discomfort, and more reliably than other methods.

What about electrolysis?

For long-term hair removal, electrolysis is popular and effective. It is a time-consuming procedure that can be painful and is useful to remove only small areas of hair. During electrolysis, an electric current passes through a needle to destroy each individual hair root. It typically takes months and numerous regular visits to clear even small areas, like the upper lip.

What happens during the procedure?

With the LightSheer™ Diode Laser, a light is emitted and absorbed by the pigment located in the hair follicles. The laser pulses for a fraction of a second -- long enough to heat up the hair and significantly impede the follicle’s ability to re-grow. The process treats numerous hair follicles simultaneously.

How long will the treatment last?

Depending upon the size of the area being treated, the treatment can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or more. It is important to note that the hairs in an active growth phase are most affected by the laser. All hairs are not in this phase at the same time, so more than one treatment will be necessary to achieve the best results.

What can I expect to happen after?

The laser treatment itself may cause some discomfort. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, but because some areas of the body are more sensitive than others, topical anesthesia can be an option. Side effects, if any, are usually minor. They may include redness and swelling around the hair follicle, which is, in fact, a desired clinical result and indicates that the follicle has responded to the treatment. Most people return to normal activity right away.