One of the most popular methods of hair removal, laser hair removal is, nonetheless, surrounded by more than a few myths and misconceptions.

It works, it doesn’t work. It’s great for those with PCOS. It’s useless for those with PCOS. There are a lot of opinions online, but very few definite conclusions.

That’s why we asked Dr. Derrick Moody, our featured dermatologist here at Southern Dermatology, to provide us with some answers on what you need to know about laser hair removal.

How Does a Laser Remove Your Hair?

The laser used in the procedure targets a pigment in your body known as melanin. This pigment is present in the bulge region of your hair follicle. The laser heats the melanin up, and damages the follicle, completely destroying it in the process.

While this does not work as a form of permanent hair removal, damaging and destroying the melanin in the follicle dramatically slows down its growth, so you’re able to stay hair-free for a long time. If you want long-term results, several treatments are required.

Does it Work for Everyone?

Laser hair removal works best for those with dark hair and light skin. This is because while the laser targets the melanin, those with darker skin end up getting burned because of the melanin they have in the upper layers of their skin as well. Similarly, if you have fair hair and light skin, the laser isn’t able to do much damage, since there’s less melanin to work with.

Where Does it Work Best?

Facial hair might be a bit troublesome to remove with the procedure, since this hair is stubborn and hormone-driven. Hair on your lower legs, underarms, and the bikini area usually exhibits the best results.

How Many Sessions Do I Need?

This depends on the area being treated, the coarseness of your hair, and whether you have any medical conditions that affect the growth of your hair.

Areas such as your face may require more sessions.

However, your legs, underarms and bikini area may take between 4–6 sessions for you to achieve a completely clear result.

What Should I Expect from Treatment?

Typically, hair does not grow back once the treatment is complete, but you might need some top-ups for intermittent growth. Any hair that grows back will be finer and will be slow to grow, so you can space out your sessions over the months.

How Should I Prepare?

Maintain your personal hygiene. You’ll be required to shave before you come in for a session, so exfoliate and apply a numbing cream about 30 minutes before you go. If you’re sensitive to pain, have a pain medicine about an hour before so the process doesn’t hurt as much.

Book an Appointment!

Laser hair removal has different results for different people. Book an appointment with your dermatologist in Lawrenceville, GA, for more information on your options