What happens during a laser hair removal procedure?
Your technician or physician will discuss the procedure with you and decide if you need a topical anesthetic cream. As the name implies, the CoolGlide hand piece cools and soothes as it glides along your skin. When the pulse of light is delivered, some patients experience a mild pinching or stinging sensation.
What are the expectations after the procedure?
Immediately following the procedure, the treated area may appear red and swollen. Three to seven days after the procedure you may experience what seems to be regrowth of hair. Most of these hairs are being shed as a result of your procedure and are not growing again. You should not wax or pluck your hair, but shaving is permissible. Keep the treated area clean, use at least an SPF 30 sunscreen when outdoors, and follow your physician’s or technician’s instructions.
How many treatments are recommended?
Most areas require three to six procedures, but the number of procedures required for optimal long-term benefits depend on various factors such as your hair’s thickness, the area treated, and your hair’s growth cycle. Interestingly, not all hairs are actively growing at the same time, but actually go through three distinct phases: growth, regression, and resting. CoolGlide systems work by disabling the hair that is principally in the active growth phase at the time of the procedure. Because other hairs will enter this active growth phase at different times, additional procedures may be necessary to disable all of the hair follicles in a given area.
What are the possible side effects?
Slight reddening and local swelling of the skin, similar to a sunburn may occur in some patients. These effects typically last for several hours or less. In rare instances, blistering may occur. A consultation is required prior to the procedure for a complete explanation on the benefits and risks of the procedure.
