Home Procedures Laser hair removal
Medical aestheticsLaser hair removal
Laser light targets hair follicles to reduce unwanted hair over the long term. A consultation is held beforehand and skin and hair type are assessed.
What it is used for
- Unwanted hair on the face, underarms, arms, legs and bikini area
- Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) due to hormonal causes, e.g. polycystic ovary syndrome
- Ingrown hairs (pseudofolliculitis)
- Reducing hair in the area after pilonidal sinus treatment
What laser hair removal is
In laser hair removal, laser light directed at the pigment (melanin) in the hair heats and disables the hair follicle. Because hairs are at different stages of growth, several sessions are needed. The device settings are determined at the consultation according to skin type and hair. In excessive hair growth, hormonal causes are investigated separately.
Who it is suitable for
Suitability is determined at the consultation, which takes account of general health, current medicines and any chronic conditions.
The conditions listed at the top of the page are assessed at the consultation. A condition appearing in the list does not mean the procedure will be carried out for it, or that a result will follow; the decision is made after the consultation.
How it is carried out
The procedure is carried out at the practice by the physician, with single-use materials. It does not begin before informed consent is taken.
- The treatment area is determined by examination and cleaned
- A topical anaesthetic cream is applied if needed
- The procedure is carried out according to the plan made at the consultation
- Aftercare instructions are given in writing
What to expect afterwards
Short-lived redness, mild swelling and tenderness may appear in the treated area and usually settle in a short time.
Outcomes vary from person to person and the number of sessions is determined after the consultation.
Before the procedure
Regular medicines, known allergies, chronic conditions and pregnancy must be reported to the physician beforehand.
Who it is not suitable for
The procedure is not carried out in the situations below. The list may grow at the consultation; the decision rests with the physician.
- Pregnancy
- Active infection or cold sores in the treatment area
- Recently tanned skin
- Use of medicines that cause light sensitivity
- Use of isotretinoin (acne medication) in the last six months
- Photosensitive epilepsy
Frequently asked
Questions about laser hair removal
How many sessions are needed?
The number of sessions is determined after the consultation. Giving a number in advance would not be right; a plan is made after the assessment and reviewed as it goes.
What should I do before the procedure?
Bring a list of the medicines you take regularly. Tell the practice when booking if you have a known allergy, a chronic condition, or may be pregnant.
Who carries out the procedure?
The procedure is carried out at the practice by the physician. Consultation, decision and procedure are handled by the same physician.
The consultation comes first
Book an appointment for a suitability assessment; the decision to proceed is made after the consultation.