Laser Hair Removal
Many of our dermatology patients complain of unwanted hair. Shaving and plucking can be time consuming and often lead to irritation or other dermatological problems. Waxing hair and electrolysis can be very expensive, and the results do not last longer than several weeks. Often patients seek a permanent solution to the problem of unwanted hair.
Would you like to learn more about laser hair removal? Please call Ancaster Dermatology Centre at (905) 304-1122 to schedule your visit.
Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
The Lightsheer® Diode is considered the "gold standard" in hair removal and can effectively treat all skin types. The laser targets melanin, the pigment located in the hair bulb and shaft. The ideal candidate for laser hair removal has dark hair. Individuals with fair hair (white, blond or "peach fuzz") have less or no pigment in the hair follicle and are therefore not candidates for laser hair removal as the laser is unable to detect and target the melanin in the hair. Any technology to date does not support the treatment of fair hair. Our trained staff at Ancaster Dermatology Centre can advise you if this treatment is the right option for you. All areas of the body can be successfully treated with the Lightsheer® Diode, however, lasers can not be used as a treatment option for eyebrows. Along with the cosmetic benefits of laser hair removal we have experienced many success stories for patients suffering from hirsutism, PCOS, and folliculitis.
Laser Hair Removal at Ancaster Dermatology
Lightsheer® laser hair removal can be used to remove unwanted body hair from any region because the energy level of the laser is low. During laser hair removal, the laser passes over the affected area of the patient's skin. The laser energy targets melanin, the pigment located in the hair follicle and shaft. The heat from this light causes thermal damage to the hair follicle resulting in a delayed re-growth and permanent reduction of hair. After a laser treatment the hair that once grew from the damaged follicle will fall out. This can take up to two weeks. This procedure is most effective on hair in it's growth state. Laser hair removal requires a series of 5 to 8 treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. The number of treatments and time varies by patient and the area treated. It takes the most time to treat large areas with dense or thick hair. Like any laser surgery or procedure, laser hair removal may require some recovery time. Patients usually experience some mild redness, tenderness, and swelling of the treated area. Patients are advised to avoid exposing the treated area to the sun both before and after laser hair removal, but can return to daily activities immediately following the procedure.
