Laser Hair Removal Laser

Reduction rather than a guaranteed permanent result

Laser hair removal uses light absorbed by pigment in hair to heat and damage the structures involved in growth. A suitable treatment may reduce future hair growth, but complete or permanent removal is not assured. Regrowth and maintenance are possible. Skin tone, hair colour, the area, hormones and the exact device can affect the response. Light-coloured hair often responds poorly because it contains less of the pigment being targeted.

What an assessment should establish

Start with the concern you want to address and the exact area. Laser hair reduction is not the same as treating the cause of new hair growth or treating a skin disease. The practitioner should explain the proposed device, likely limitations, alternatives and who can help after treatment. Choosing no procedure remains an option; a general benefits list is not a personal recommendation.

Risks and individual suitability

Treatment can be uncomfortable. Redness and swelling can occur, and burns, blisters, infection, scarring, lasting colour changes and eye injury are possible. A cooling feature, patch test or experienced practitioner does not make it risk-free. Assessment should cover the exact area, skin and hair, recent tanning, medicines, medical history and previous reactions. This information does not establish that a particular laser, IPL system or service is available at a Dr Sknn clinic.

Follow the plan for your treatment

Obtain written preparation and aftercare instructions from the treating practitioner. Tell them about medicines, supplements, skincare products, tanning and any irritation or cuts. Do not stop a prescribed medicine, apply a numbing product or copy a laser setting from a general article. Shaving and removing hair from the root are different; ask what is appropriate and when for your assessed area. Do not continue over sore or damaged skin without advice.