Laser Hair Reduction is an advanced, non-invasive procedure that offers long-term reduction of unwanted hair. Using concentrated light energy, this treatment targets hair follicles to slow future growth while limiting heat to the surrounding skin, for finer, sparser hair across multiple body areas after a course of sessions.
Key points
- Long-term reduction of unwanted hair, reducing the need for shaving or waxing.
- Targets the follicle while limiting heat to the surrounding skin.
- Effective on multiple body areas including face, underarms, legs, and bikini line.
- Reduces ingrown hairs and associated skin irritation.
- Quick treatment sessions with minimal discomfort.
- Less frequent shaving as the course progresses.
What is Laser Hair Reduction?
Laser Hair Reduction is a medical procedure that uses concentrated light (laser) technology to reduce unwanted hair from various body areas. The laser emits a specific wavelength that is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicles, converting to heat energy that damages the follicles and inhibits future hair growth. Unlike traditional hair removal methods that provide temporary results, laser treatment offers a long-term reduction in hair growth after a series of sessions. It can be performed on most body areas including face, underarms, legs, bikini area, back, and chest, with settings chosen for the skin and hair type.Dr. Shikha explains
Laser hair reduction instead of shaving and waxing
The Laser Hair Reduction Procedure
Before treatment, the target area is cleaned and may be shaved to prevent surface hair from absorbing laser energy. Protective eyewear is provided to shield your eyes from the laser light. During the procedure, a handheld laser device is pressed against your skin, delivering precise pulses of light to the hair follicles. The device’s cooling technology protects the surrounding skin while the laser targets the follicles. You may feel a mild snapping or warming sensation during treatment. Sessions vary in length depending on the treatment area - from just minutes for small areas like the upper lip to an hour for larger areas like legs or back. Most patients require 6-8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal results, as the laser can only target hairs in the active growth phase.Side effects, and when treatment is deferred
Redness and mild swelling around the follicles are normal and usually settle within a few hours to a day. Less common side effects are burns or blistering, darkening or lightening of the skin, and folliculitis. Pigment change matters most on medium-to-dark skin (types IV to VI), which is why settings are chosen for the skin type and a test patch may be done first; a lighter patch can occasionally be permanent. On the face and neck, a small number of patients notice more hair growth around the treated area (paradoxical hypertrichosis). The eyes are protected throughout, because laser light can injure them.
White, grey, blonde and red hair responds poorly or not at all. Treatment is deferred during pregnancy, over a recent tan, while taking isotretinoin or light-sensitising medicines, and over active skin infection. Where facial hair growth looks hormone-driven, for example with PCOS, a hormonal assessment is suggested alongside treatment.
Talk it through with Dr. Shikha
Book a consultation at Dr. Shikha Aesthetics in Sushant Lok 1. Bring your questions about laser hair reduction, and any previous reports.
