Laser Hair Removal

For many, fighting unwanted hair is a weekly or even daily struggle.

After shaving all that pesky hair, many people only enjoy a day or two of smoothness before stubble creeps back up and the razor comes back out. In addition to the time-consuming inconvenience of shaving, it can also leave behind uncomfortable bumps and ingrown hairs. Waxing offers slightly longer-lasting results but with even greater discomfort and the risk of burns.

That’s why laser hair removal has become increasingly popular. With just a few pain-free treatments, you can achieve long-lasting hair removal anywhere on the body.

Learn More About Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal can be used almost anywhere you have unwanted hair. Common treatment areas include the following:

  • Arms and underarms
  • Legs
  • Bikini line
  • Back
  • Chest
  • Face

Since laser hair removal targets pigment in the hair follicles, it’s most effective for individuals with sufficient melanin. Patients with brown or black hair and light to medium skin tones see the best results with laser hair removal. Thanks to advanced technology, however, we can safely treat all skin types at Rapaport Plastic Surgery.

Laser hair removal is more effective and long-lasting than other hair removal methods because it targets the problem at its roots. Rather than just removing hair, the treatment disables the hair follicles so they no longer produce hair.

Our team at Rapaport Plastic Surgery uses the Excel V 1064 laser for hair removal and laser vein therapy. Its smaller treatment spot size and stronger pulse duration make the Excel V 1064 laser an excellent choice for treating areas like the face, underarms, and bikini line. The laser targets the melanin in the hair bulb, heating the bulb while maintaining a cool temperature on the skin. Hair follicles are damaged by the heat and stop working. The hair falls out shortly after the treatment, and the treated follicles stop producing hair for months or even years.

Laser hair removal is a relatively fast and painless procedure. We’ll ask you to shave the unwanted hair a day or two before your treatment, which increases the safety and effectiveness of the laser.

Your provider may apply numbing cream or cold gel for maximum comfort during the treatment, and you’ll need to wear eye protection. They will then pass the handheld laser device over your skin. It will deliver pulses of laser energy, heating the hair follicles. We can adjust the intensity of the laser as needed for your comfort, safety, and optimal results. Most people say laser hair removal feels like a rubber band snap and is painless. The entire procedure may take as little as a few minutes, depending on the size and number of treatment areas.

There’s no downtime after laser hair removal, though some patients have temporary mild discomfort, such as redness and minor swelling. Side effects are often similar to sunburn and should subside within a few days. You can use cold compresses and lotion to soothe the area. Since your skin will be more sensitive after a laser treatment, limiting sun exposure and wearing sunscreen is essential.

Laser hair removal can only target hair follicles that are in the growth phase. This is why patients need a series of treatments scheduled a month or two apart to address each follicle as it cycles through its different stages. Most people see up to 25% hair reduction after each treatment. Once all the follicles have been treated in a series of treatments, most or all of the hair will fall out and stop growing. We typically recommend at least six sessions for optimal hair removal.

Since it disables the hair follicles to stop hair growth, laser hair removal offers long-lasting results. Most people’s results last several months or even years. With an occasional maintenance treatment, you can enjoy hair-free skin long-term. Any hair that does grow back is often lighter and thinner, making it less noticeable.

Take the Next Step

Every patient’s transformation journey at Rapaport Plastic Surgery begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Rapaport. To learn more about laser hair removal and determine if it’s the right choice for you, fill out the form below or call us at (212) 249-9955 to schedule an appointment. Our team is dedicated to providing the best plastic surgery NYC has to offer.

Ready to book a consultation or treatment? Just click the Book Now button below to schedule online.