What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Snyder Dermatology in Austin, Downtown Austin, and West Lake Hills, TX, creates smooth results for men and women desiring to remove unwanted hair. Most of our patients turn to laser hair removal after spending years shaving, waxing, plucking, and using depilatories. Laser hair removal is performed right inside our dermatology office using the Icon Laser System by Palomar. The pulsed light that emits from this laser targets the hair and heats the follicle, which loosens and disables the cells from regrowing. This laser is considered the “gold standard” where laser hair removal is concerned, and it allows patients to see results faster, with fewer treatment sessions and minimal discomfort. The most common hair removal areas we treat with laser technology include the face, upper lip, chin, underarms, bikini line, and legs. In addition, the back and chest are common treatment areas for men in particular. The StarLux device is safe and effective to use almost anywhere on the body where hair grows.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
Historically, laser hair removal has been more effective on light-skinned individuals with dark hair. New-generation lasers have allowed darker-skinned individuals with dark hair to be better candidates for the treatment. However, since lasers can’t essentially “see” light-colored hair, such as blond, white, gray, or red hair, these individuals aren’t the best candidates for laser hair removal. New options are being developed to address these individuals.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal offers several benefits, including long-term reduction of unwanted hair growth, providing smoother skin, and eliminating the need for frequent shaving, waxing, or plucking. It is a precise method that targets hair follicles without damaging the surrounding skin, making it effective for treating larger areas like the legs, back, and arms and smaller, more sensitive areas such as the face and bikini line. The procedure is relatively quick, with each session lasting only a few minutes to an hour, depending on the area treated. Over time, laser hair removal can lead to permanent hair reduction, saving time and money on temporary hair removal methods. Additionally, it reduces issues like ingrown hair and skin irritation associated with other hair removal techniques.
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Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
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Everyone here was so helpful and kind. I haven’t had many Dermatologists who took my case seriously and they were so professional and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone!
-Brian C.
“Dr. Rene Snyder is saving me from skin cancer. Over the years she has found numerous precancer spots on me, each time treating them with great care and minimal discomfort. And she offers a wide range of cosmetic treatments so I can age gracefully. I’m a lifelong fan.”
-Kim S.
Dr. Parker has been my dermatologist for years, and she is terrific. She saw my 14-year-old for the first time yesterday yesterday, and was very thorough, knowledgeable, and kind. She guided her through a skin care routine, and gave her lots of tips about keeping her skin fresh. We feel so lucky to know Dr. Parker.
-Sarah K.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
MEET OUR DOCTORS
Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
Laser Hair Removal Treatment
The principle behind laser hair removal uses intense, pulsating beams of light, which are applied to the skin to target the hair follicle. When specific wavelengths of light are matched with pulse duration, this allows the best opportunity to effectively target the hair. The laser’s intense heat damages the hair follicle, which prevents the future growth of hair while, at the same time, protecting surrounding tissue from the heat of the laser. The process must be completed a number of times since hair goes through phases such as rest and growth and laser treatment isn’t effective on hair in the rest phase. Our dermatology office will schedule the appointments as recommended by the dermatologist so that the area of hair being removed is maximized during treatment.
Laser Hair Removal Recovery and Results
Before treatment, hair needs to be shaved since laser removal isn’t as effective on longer hair. A patient may be given protective eyewear to protect the eyes. A cold gel or similar product will be applied to the skin to allow the laser to penetrate better. The medical professional will test a patch on the treatment area to determine the best settings for the individual as well as to check for any adverse effects. With controlled movements, the handheld device will be placed on the skin, where short spurts of laser beams will work to damage the follicles. Sessions are relatively quick, sometimes a few minutes, depending on the size and location of the treatment area. There is no downtime; most patients can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are tired of consistently shaving, waxing, and dealing with unwanted hair, laser hair removal may be a terrific option for you. It offers lasting results. We invite you to call our dermatology office today and schedule your appointment for a free skin and hair consultation.