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Unwanted body hair can be removed in many ways, from shaving to chemical depilatories to waxing. While these are all effective, they are constant, uncomfortable, and deeply annoying. Imagine not having to shave your legs every day or not having to schedule a waxing appointment before your beach vacation.

Women touching her legs after a laser hair removal treatment.

For a permanent solution to unwanted body hair, laser hair removal is a viable solution. 

But is laser hair removal worth it? Let’s explore a little more about the process and typical results.

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal uses a laser to kill the hair root in the follicle which reduces regrowth, and after a few sessions, the follicles are too damaged to produce new hair. People describe the feeling as multiple slaps with a rubber band, or tiny bee stings, although the process is tolerable and grows less painful with each session.

How Is Laser Hair Removal Performed?

Hairs are detected by their color—once the laser detects the melanin in the hair, it sends a small burst down the follicle, damaging it at the root. Because the laser looks for the contrast between the color of the hair and the person’s skin tone, people with fair skin and dark hair typically have the best results.

Because hair grows in stages, you will need repeated treatments to address different levels of hair growth. For most people, laser hair removal is accomplished over a six-month process. 

The Lumenis Lightsheer® hair removal laser works quickly and efficiently without the need for anesthesia or gel. The continuous cooling of the system enhances patient comfort significantly as the handpiece glides over the treatment area.

Darker-skinned people with dark hair should look for a specialist trained to execute laser hair removal for their skin and hair properly.

Is There a Recovery Period After Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal falls somewhere in between shaving and waxing. While the Lumenis Lightsheer® does not require anesthesia or recovery time, you may feel a stinging sensation that goes beyond shaving—which is painless. 

Over the course of your treatment, you may see little red bumps on your skin. These bumps indicate that the follicle has been damaged and the hair will not re-grow.

Laser hair removal does not guarantee that hair will not return; however, new hair growth will be thinner, lighter, and less noticeable.

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

A typical session of laser hair removal costs between $200 and $400. However, if you add up the costs of razors, shaving creams, depilatories, or monthly waxing sessions throughout your lifetime, you may find that laser hair removal is actually less expensive and more convenient in the long run. 

Ready For Smoother Skin?

Consider laser hair removal a beauty investment, and get ready to put your razor down forever! Dr. O’Toole offers laser hair removal with the Lumenis® LightSheer® at Pasadena Cosmetic Surgery. Call us today at (626) 449-8910 or fill out our online contact form to set up an appointment.