Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center of El Paso - Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery in Texas

Hair Removal Procedures

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will maintenance treatments be required?

  Hair removal patients may require 1-2 maintenance sessions per year after completion of the initial treatment sessions.

• Why does hair growth cycle affect the number of treatments?

  There are three growth cycles: active (anagen), regression (catagen) and resting (telogen). The laser energy targets the hair in the active (anagen) hair growth cycle only. Repeated laser hair removal treatments are needed to ensure that as hair enters the active stage it will be treated.

   

• Which areas may be safely treated with laser hair removal?

  All areas, with the exception of the areas surrounding the eyes, may be targeted laser hair removal treatment.

• What should I expect after a treatment?

  Immediately after laser treatment one may experience slight redness or mild swelling of the treatment area that can last from a few minutes to two days depending on the coarseness of the hair. Normally, patients return to their regularly routine immediately. Use of adequate sunblock with a minimum SPF protection of 30 is necessary.

• Is laser hair removal safe?

  Laser hair removal is very safe under physician supervision. Our technicians are thoroughly trained in laser safety and technique according to proposed guidelines by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners.

• Is laser hair removal painful?

  Pain is variable per patient. Some treatment areas are more sensitive than others and may require topical anesthetic before treatment. Most patients experience a moderate stinging sensation, more so in areas of dense hair growth.

• How much do the treatments cost?

  Prices vary according to the treatment site as well as the estimated length of time the treatment will take. Our staff is available to advise patients regarding treatment cost of specific areas as well as current seasonal promotions.

• How many treatments are required for hair reduction?

  The number of treatments is affected by the hair density, the area being treated and the growth cycle of the hair. Additional factors such as age, ethnicity, weight, hormone fluctuation, some medications and metabolism influence hair growth. Experience tells us that 4-8 treatments spaced 4-12 weeks apart results in permanent hair reduction.

• How long is the treatment session?

  The length of a treatment is determined by the density of hair growth and size of the surface area being treated. Smaller areas may require 15 minutes, while larger areas may take an hour or longer.

• How does the laser work?

  The laser removes facial and body hair by selectively targeting melanin (pigment) inside the hair follicle generating heat energy at the root of the hair which destroys the hair without damaging the skin.

• Can darker skin types be safely treated for hair removal with laser?

  With proper skin assessment and typing by an experienced technician, incorporating the use of longer pulse widths, and doing preliminary test areas, darker skin types may be treated.