Dermal Laser Hair Removal

by Kathryn Pless

Overview

Traditional methods of hair removal include shaving, tweezing, waxing and the use of depilatory creams and lotions. The main drawback of these methods is the fact that the unwanted hair grows back quickly. Dermal laser hair removal can help to remove unwanted hair and retard its regrowth. The dermal laser vaporizes the pigment in your hair follicles and helps to prevent hair from growing back.
Types of Dermal Lasers Available

The first laser method approved by the United State Food and Drug Administration was the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser according to Mounir Bashour, MD, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology, McGill University in his July 2002 article on laser hair removal. This method did not prevent hair regrowth, but slowed it down. Treatments were needed every three months to maintain results. This method uses a combination of laser light and a carbon mineral oil to treat unwanted hair. The Soft Light system by the Thermolase Corporation is an example of this type of laser. EpiLaser 694 nm by Palomar Technologies, EpiTouch by Sharplan Laser, PhotoGenica LPIR 755 nm by Cynosure Incare and LightSheer by Coherent Medical are examples of dermal lasers that target the melanin pigment in the hair shaft and vaporize it. This affects the hair and follicle to retard hair regrowth and remove unwanted hair. Four to six treatments are usually needed to achieve the desired results.

Procedure

You will be asked to shave the night before your treatment. A numbing cream may be applied before treatment to help reduce any pain you may experience. This cream is wiped off before the laser is applied. The area to be treated may be marked and photographed. Your technician or doctor will apply the laser to your skin according to the type of laser being used and a cooling gel may be applied after treatment.
Side Effects and Complications

The most common side effect is a sunburn-like sensation that generally fades within two to three hours. Small blisters may also be present and can be treated with cool compresses or an antibacterial cream. You will be advised to use sunblock for up to six weeks after your treatment. Rare cases of an allergic reaction to the numbing cream have been reported. Other side effects may include hyper-pigmentation of the treated area, scarring, itching and numbness.

Overview