Laser hair removal at Wilmington Health is a safe, non-invasive procedure that treats common conditions and results in smooth, low-maintenance skin. Our Cynosure Apogee Elite+ hair removal device is faster and more efficient than what comparable systems offer. Whether you find traditional hair removal methods ineffective and time-consuming, or you’re one of many who suffers from excess hair growth or challenging skin conditions, laser removal makes an excellent alternative to waxing, electrolysis, and shaving. Read on to learn more about the Cynosure Apogee Elite+ treatment to see whether it is the right solution for you.
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a non-surgical skin care maintenance procedure that provides a permanent solution to take off undesired hair on the chest, face, back, legs, arms, or bikini line.
Is laser hair removal right for me?
A good candidate for laser hair removal is anyone who wants a long-term solution to simplify the routine maintenance of removing body hair or to relieve a skin condition. A person struggling with hirsutism, a condition that causes excess hair growth, or pseudofolliculitis, a “razor rash” that results from shaving and other hair removal methods, can benefit from the right laser hair removal treatments.
Speak to your doctor during the initial assessment if you are prone to keloid or hypertrophic scarring, if you’re taking photosensitizing medications, or if you have a photo-aggravated disorder or an active skin infection, as these conditions may change your treatment plan.
Unfortunately, laser hair removal isn’t the right choice for blonde, gray, or white hair because the laser cannot effectively penetrate follicles without pigment, so the results will be unsatisfactory.
How To Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
Your doctor at Wilmington Health will likely advise you to refrain from plucking and waxing the area prior to treatment because stripping the hair from the follicle removes the laser’s target. Select an appointment schedule that allows you to limit time outdoors, staying safe from sun exposure before and after treatment.
What To Expect During Laser Hair Removal Treatments
This outpatient procedure will be performed in an office setting at your local Wilmington Health location. The treatment areas on your skin are cleansed and the hair is trimmed down. The doctor will evaluate your skin type or test a small area to determine the optimal settings for your specific skin type, hair color, and thickness, to achieve the most effective treatment. Expect some discomfort during the procedure; side effects may include mild pain, blistering, or hyperpigmentation.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
The heat from the laser penetrates the hair, disabling the follicle and stopping hair growth. Because hair follicles may be in different growth phases, multiple hair removal sessions are often required to effectively restrict hair growth in all treated areas.
What To Expect After Laser Hair Removal
Following a laser hair removal treatment, skin may be more sensitive to sunlight, so it is important to avoid direct exposure and limit the time you spend outdoors. The area may be irritated or puffy, but a cold compress can ease these symptoms.
Five Facts About Laser Hair Removal
1. Laser hair removal is safe for all skin types and tones and today’s equipment can safely remove the most stubborn hair from Fitzpatrick skin types (I–VI), a classification system that describes skin’s reaction to sunlight exposure.
2. While hair reduction is permanent, most patients require three to five sessions to achieve the best results.
3. Hair removal treatments feel similar to a pinprick or the snap of a hot rubber band, but followup palliative care using the Cynosure Apogee Elite+ cooling system can ease this discomfort.
4. Laser treatments are more affordable than you might realize and can be a cost-effective, convenient alternative to frequent shaving, waxing, and electrolysis.
5. This procedure increases sensitivity to sunlight, so anyone considering laser hair removal should be prepared to spend minimal time outdoors with reduced sun exposure following treatment.
Need more information about laser hair removal?
Turn to our Specialties department for answers to all of your questions on Cynosure Apogee Elite+ Hair Removal and other non-surgical procedures offered by Wilmington Health. Our TRUE Care approach makes a difference for anyone who needs quality, affordable healthcare.