Laser Hair Removal – When is it a good option?

When is laser hair removal (LHR) a good option?  

LHR is wonderful for freeing women from having to shave, pluck or wax an area that has hair.  That sounds obvious but some women struggle for a long time with hair on the upper lip, or ingrown hairs in the bikini area or just a lot of hair, before they consider getting LHR.  In almost all laser centers prices have come down significantly over the past five years, making Laser Hair Removal more affordable for many.  

Consider LHR, if you have to shave facial hair (as opposed to an occasional pluck), have recurring problems  with "razor bumps" especially in the bikini and upper thigh area, or have to shave your legs more than 2-3 times a week to keep them under control.  Laser Hair Removal does NOT work well on gray or very blonde hair. Don’t tan for 3-6 weeks before treatments.    Darker skin types should look for an office that has an Nd:YAG based system.  Diode systems like the Lightsheer or Alexandrite are better for light to medium skin types. 

For more information on unwanted hair and laser hair removal treatments, see Dr. Irwin’s articles on Unwanted Hair and Laser Hair Removal.  

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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