What to Expect After Laser Hair Removal?

Despite their differences, men and women have one thing in common: they have hair on their bodies or faces that they want gone. Whether you wish for stubble-free legs, a tidy bikini line, or a smooth chest, laser hair removal can help you eliminate the annoyance of hair removal and spend that time doing almost anything else. 

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

To understand laser hair removal, you should know how hair grows from its follicle. The follicle is located deep in the skin, and the hair root develops inside it. Cells called melanocytes in the follicle add melanin pigment to the hair as it grows, giving it color. The laser used in hair removal (we use the Lumenis LightSheer® or Cynosure Vectus®) targets this melanin pigment, causing it to heat up. The heat inside the follicle causes damage that causes the treated hair to shed and no new hair to grow in its place. 

What to Expect After Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a quick, pain-free treatment that allows you to return to your usual activities immediately. While you will not need any downtime, your skin may look mildly red and swollen for up to a day or two. Avoid irritating products such as scrubs or peels on the area for a few days. We can recommend medical-grade skincare products to maximize your healing and benefit your skin. 

Laser hair removal can make your skin sensitive to UV rays. Wear sunscreen after treatment and avoid exposing the area to the sun before and between sessions. A tan may affect whether you can receive treatment as scheduled. Your provider will also give you other instructions to follow. 

How Many Laser Hair Removal Treatments Will I Need?

Each hair removal treatment removes more hair, but you will need several sessions to achieve your desired results. Hair follicles go through cycles of activity and rest, and any resting follicles will not contain a hair root for treatment. During a series of two to six sessions, your resting hairs will become active so they can be treated. Some people or more stubborn areas of hair may need additional sessions. 

Am I a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

With our advanced lasers, almost anyone can safely receive laser hair removal. These lasers allow us to treat a wider range of hair and skin tones than others. Good candidates have reasonable expectations and want to achieve long-term results. Very pale blond or gray hairs may not respond as well to treatment as other shades. People with certain medical conditions or skin concerns should not have this treatment. 

Take the Next Step

Interested in learning more about our laser hair removal for yourself? Schedule a consultation at El Paso Cosmetic Surgery in El Paso, TX today by calling or texting (915) 351-1116.