Proudly serving Mercer County
Want to get laser hair removal in Princeton? Excess body hair can be a struggle for both men and women. Traditional hair removal methods like waxing and shaving do not provide permanent results and they can also be costly and time-consuming. At Hazen Plastic Surgery P.A., Dr. Jill Hazen offers laser hair removal treatments to provide permanent body hair removal for men and women.
During laser hair removal treatments in Princeton, NJ, laser energy is focused towards the hair follicle on the treatment area. The energy from the laser disables the follicle, which is responsible for hair growth. In the weeks following the treatment targeted hairs will begin to fall out and are not able to grow back, leaving patients with permanent hair reduction in problem areas like the face, arms, back, chest, bikini area and legs.
Although laser hair removal treatments are safe and effective for reducing body hair, the laser can only destroy active hair follicles. In order to provide optimal hair removal results, a series of treatments is required. Laser hair removal treatments at Hazen Plastic Surgery P.A. require no downtime, and are generally not described as painful.
Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
As you prepare for your laser hair removal session, there are certain precautions to take to ensure safe, effective treatment.
For the duration of your treatments, avoid waxing, tweezing, electrolysis and the use of hair removal creams, because they remove the hair follicle that we target during the treatment. You should shave the area(s) to be treated the day before your appointment; this removes the hair above the skin but leaves the hair follicle intact below the skin so we can target it with the laser.
You will want to avoid tanning (including direct and indirect sun exposure, spray tanning and self-tanning products) for two weeks prior to treatment. Not only will it be harder for the laser to identify the hair follicle if you have a tan, but tanning can also increase the risks of treatment. If you go outside in the weeks leading up to your session, apply a physical sunscreen (containing zinc or titanium dioxide) with an SPF of at least 50.
On the day of your appointment, make sure you are not wearing any deodorant, creams, lotions or cosmetics on treatment area(s).
Also, if there have been any changes in your health or the medications you take, let our team know prior to your appointment. Some medications, such as acne medications and antibiotics, can make you more sensitive to the hair removal laser. We might need to postpone your treatment, depending on your circumstances.
Treatment Details
During the laser hair removal session the provider runs a handheld device across the target area. The laser emits pulses of light while a cooling piece on the tip of the device, along with a cooling gel, helps protect your skin and reduce the risk of side effects. The amount of time it takes to complete a treatment session depends on the size of the area.
After Laser Hair Removal
Immediately after laser hair removal, you might experience mild redness or tenderness in the treated area(s); these aftereffects could last a couple of days. Applying a cold compress or taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any discomfort.
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun for at least two weeks after your treatment. Expect the hairs in the treated area to shed in the days and weeks following treatment. Because hair grows in cycles, the shedding may not occur all at once.
If you notice any signs of irritation, let our team know. Side effects are rare but include hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, bruising, rashes and hives.
For the best results, be sure to follow the treatment schedule provided by our team. The schedule will be customized to your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does laser hair removal work?
Laser hair removal works by utilizing laser energy to remove active hair follicles in the treatment area. As the follicle is deactivated, the existing hairs will fall out and new hair will be unable to grow, providing patients the smooth and hair-free look they desire.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
Most patients do not consider laser hair removal painful; a common comparison is the snapping of a rubber band on the skin.
When will I see my results?
Results from laser hair removal can be seen in the weeks following treatment, as hairs begin to fall out of the treated area.
How can I get started?
To learn more about laser hair removal in Princeton, NJ at Hazen Plastic Surgery P.A., call us to schedule your consultation today.
