Excess facial and body hair is a major concern to millions of people around the world. Billions of dollars are spent annually on hair removal products, which provide at best, very short term assistance.

Laser technology now allows superior treatment of unwanted facial and body hair by modifying and reducing hair growth. Laser treatment is fast, relatively painless and can be performed on an out patient basis.

Why do people develop excess hair?
Excess hair growth, is a relative problem, based on Caucasian beauty standards. Many people complaining of excess hair, have in fact normal hair growth for their racial background.

For example, individuals of Mediterranean origin, have thicker and darker facial and body hair, than Anglo-Saxons. Although this is normal, it is often considered unattractive.

Some women develop male pattern hair growth, due to hormone imbalances, which may require further investigation, and possibly hormone treatment.

How does laser work in hair removal?
The laser beams are attracted to brown or black colours which are present in the hair bulb, selectively destroying the hair bulb, while preserving normal skin.

Only hairs in the growing phase, will be affected by the laser beam. Hairs that are in the resting phase will not be affected. At any one time approximately 60% of the hairs are in the growing phase so only these hairs will be effectively treated at a given treatment session.

What lasers are used in hair removal?
The first laser used in hair removal was the Ruby laser. Although the results were satisfactory, the process was slow, and not suitable for patients with darker skins.

The latest in hair removal technology, is the Alexandrite laser, which operates rapidly, and is suitable for darker skinned individuals.

How successful is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is best described as a hair reduction and modification procedure. When hairs are treated, they will stop growing for a period of time usually 3-12 months.

Eventually, some of the hairs will regrow, usually thinner and weaker. Laser hair removal is more successful for people with darker hair, while paler hair responds poorly.

How many treatments are needed?
Most people require a treatment once every 2-3 months, although this will vary from one individual to the next, most people require at least 3-6 treatments.
How large an area is covered in one treatment?

As laser hair removal with the Alexandrite laser is fast, it allows a large area to be treated in half an hour, for example - the face or bikini line.

Is laser hair removal painful?
Laser hair removal produces some discomfort, but generally less than electrolysis. Most people describe the sensation as being like a flick from a rubber band.

We usually recommend the use of a numbing cream for 15-30 minutes prior to a session.

Are there any side effects from laser hair removal?
It is rare to experience significant side effects, although the following may occur:

• Redness
  Mild redness in the area treated is not uncommon. It usually lasts 1-2 days, and may be covered with makeup. Severe redness is unusual.
• Blistering of skin
  This is very uncommon, and will usually resolve spontaneously.
• Pigmentation
  Temporary pigmentation may occur in some individuals and this will usually resolve without any treatment. Sun exposure should be avoided for one week after treatment. Some patients may require the use of a bleaching cream if pigmentation persists.
• Loss of pigmentation
  This is very rare with the Alexandrite laser. It was more common with the older Ruby lasers especially with dark skinned people.
• Scarring
  Occurs very rarely.

What preparation is needed prior to laser hair removal?
There are no specific requirements prior to laser hair removal. However, it is best if :

• The hair should be as short as possible.
• Do not pluck or wax for 1 week prior to treatment.
• Avoid sun-tanning immediately before or after treatment.
• You may shave or use a depilatory cream before treatment.

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