Laser hair removal, now available at many plastic surgery centers and med spas in Orlando, has become a growing aesthetic desire among women and men as well. Regardless of location, it seems as though that pesky hair comes more often than we like, thus the shaving–if not every day, maybe every 2 days. Ugh! Who has time for that? Because cell turnover for hair is very fast, growing an average of about ½ inch per month, it can be frustrating keeping up by just shaving or tweezing.
Since melanin is only produced in the growth phase of the hair, the laser must target the hair follicle during this cycle. At any given time, only 10% to 20% of the hair in a particular area may be in a growth phase. Therefore, more than one treatment is required every 3 to 4 weeks. Some patients will require touch-ups every few months.The laser’s job is to heat up the hair follicle, causing the follicle to stop working or slow down without damaging the surrounding tissue. This does not mean that the hair is gone forever. What you will notice is less hair and the frequency at which the hair grows back.
“But I have dark skin and was told that I could never have laser hair removal.”
That’s because you have not been to Dr. Spence and Dr. Ovalle. Dr. Spence and Dr. Ovalle successfully and safely reduced hair on all skin types. It’s important to understand lasers, skin and how they work together. Without this understanding, you are less likely to receive a safe and effective treatment.
“OUCH!” L
aser hair removal has been compared to a rubber band snapping the skin.
“EUREKA!”
To help patients feel more relaxed and comfortable, a topical anesthetic is applied 20 to 30 minutes prior to the treatment. We also use a cool roller that reduces the heat felt from the laser.