Ready to stop shaving, plucking, tweezing, and waxing your unwanted body hair? Laser hair removal can help you say goodbye to those tedious tasks and say hello to smooth, hairless skin at the same time.
Laser hair removal is a simple and safe way to reduce your unwanted body hair forever. At Los Gatos Dermatology, we use the most innovative laser technology, including the Candela® GentleMax laser, to help you get the smooth, hairless skin you desire.
Laser hair removal uses beams of light to target hair follicles. Pigments in the hair follicle absorb the light and destroy the hair. One of the benefits of laser hair removal is that it targets and only damages the hair follicle, leaving the surrounding skin untouched.
We can use laser hair removal on almost any part of your face and body that has unwanted hair, including your:
The Candela GentleMax laser works on all skin types and textures. Many lasers work best on people with light skin and dark hair, but the GentleMax laser works well on both light and dark skin, light and dark hair.
Laser hair removal is safe and effective, but it is most effective if you prepare properly starting about six weeks before your first laser hair removal appointment. You should avoid sun exposure and should also limit plucking, shaving, and tweezing the area you want to be treated so that there is hair in the follicle for the laser to destroy.
Most people require multiple laser hair removal treatments, spaced about four to six weeks apart, with the number of procedures needed depending on the area being treated and your natural hair growth cycle.
At Los Gatos Dermatology, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Bruce Saal applies a cooling gel to the area he plans to target before your laser treatment. This gel improves the treatment’s effectiveness and also makes it more comfortable for you.
Most people find the procedure virtually pain-free, while others find it very tolerable with only slight stinging and discomfort. The duration of the treatment depends on the area being treated.
No downtime is required. You may notice some redness and swelling, but you can return to your normal daily activities after your in-office treatment.
Continue to limit sun exposure as well as shaving, plucking, and tweezing immediately after your treatment and between treatments. After your first treatment, you’ll notice a gradual thinning of your hair, less stubble, and smoother skin.
Results are permanent, but maintenance laser procedures may be necessary after the initial round of treatments. If your hair does grow back, it will be thinner and lighter than before your laser hair removal treatment.
For more information on laser hair removal or to book an appointment, call us today at Los Gatos Dermatology in Los Gatos, California.
