Laser Hair Removal in Philadelphia
Bryn Mawr Facial Aesthetics Center is a premier office for surgical and nonsurgical facial rejuvenation in the Main Line area. Dr. Lee and our entire team are dedicated to excellence in skin care and rejuvenation, and demonstrate our commitment through our prolific use of the most advanced technologies and techniques. We are proud to offer gentle, effective laser hair removal using the GentleMAX® laser device.
GentleMAX® is one of the most advanced platforms of laser hair removal. It works by delivering gentle beams of light into the hair follicles without damaging surrounding tissue. Some of the areas that we commonly treat include the:
- Face
- Upper Lip
- Chin
- Neck
- Back
- Underarms
- Arms
- Chest
- Stomach
- Bikini Area
- Legs
Does Laser Hair Removal Work Permanently?
It is difficult to predict how laser hair removal will affect every person. What we do know is that the GentleMAX process performed exceedingly well in the clinical trials that were conducted to gain FDA-clearance. This treatment has also demonstrated outstanding efficacy in achieving long-lasting results. While some hair growth may recur after laser hair removal, this is usually minimal and does not begin for years after the initial process. Touch-up sessions can be performed as needed to maintain smooth skin.
What Can I Expect After Treatment?
After your treatment session, you will be able to resume normal activities immediately. If needed, you can apply an ice pack to soothe the treated area and calm the skin. For the first few days, avoid exfoliating or scrubbing the skin and use gentle cleansers instead of abrasive ones. You will also need to avoid sun exposure during the entire course of your treatment to prevent the risk of pigmentation changes. Most of our patients require 6 to 7 treatment sessions, spaced at 3 to 8-week intervals. During your initial consultation, we will give you an idea of how many sessions will be required.
How Painful is Laser Hair Removal?
Getting laser hair removal can be somewhat uncomfortable. The absorption of laser energy into the hair follicles can feel like momentary snapping sensations on the skin. The degree of intensity can vary significantly from one person to another based on their unique pain tolerance as well as the treatment area of focus.
Some of the factors that may influence how well you tolerate laser hair removal include how well rested you are and how hydrated you are. For women, the timing of laser hair removal may also contribute to a higher pain threshold. Studies indicate that pain tolerance is highest during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This phase occurs just after ovulation and lasts until the first day of menses.
Treatment areas that may be more sensitive include the back, upper lip, underarms, and bikini area. Laser hair removal on the cheeks, stomach, and legs tends to be well tolerated without the need for topical numbing cream.
Do I Have to Shave Before My Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
We highly recommend shaving before getting laser hair removal treatment. It is necessary to have hair in the follicles at the time of treatment, so do not wax or pluck hair. However, keep hair short. The way that laser hair removal works is by permeating the strands of hair with heat. The longer the hair, the more heat builds up as it passes into the walls of the hair follicle. The more heat that builds up, the more discomfort you may experience. Shaving the night before or morning of your laser hair removal treatment can be one of the best ways to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Do I Need?
Laser hair removal must be completed as a series of treatments to achieve the long-lasting results we expect. Generally, patients are scheduled for three to six treatments. That said, it may take more treatments to fully eradicate unwanted hair if the hear is very coarse or very light. During your consultation with one of our experienced providers, we will discuss the number of laser sessions we think you will need based on the characteristics of your complexion. Treatments are scheduled six to eight weeks apart.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Yes. Laser hair removal has been around for many years and, over time, technology has improved to achieve optimal patient outcomes. The GentleMax Pro™ is the gold standard for effective hair removal due to its speed and innovative technology. Significant side effects are uncommon. Generally, patients experience minor skin redness or irritation. The skin may feel sunburned for a short time, but can be managed with the application of cool compresses and the use of over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen.
Schedule A GentleMAX® Laser Hair Removal Consultation
To learn more about GentleMAX® Laser Hair Removal, or to schedule an appointment with a specialist, give us a call today at (610) 789-6701 or fill out an online contact form and our office will be in touch with you. Our practice serves Bryn Mawr, PA and the surrounding areas!
