LASER HAIR REMOVAL

In a recent interview with Dr. Beninger, he describes the procedure, the best candidates and how many sessions will be required.

Dr. Beninger:
Some people are better candidates for laser hair removal than others. All laser systems on the market use a non-visible spectrum of light and work by creating thermal (heat) damage. The goal is to heat the hair to a high enough temperature to permanently destroy it , while heating the skin minimally to prevent blisters and burns. Also the laser energy must penetrate deeply enough into the skin to get to the hair follicle. The best candidates have very dark hair and very light skin.

The greater the difference, the greater the chance of permanent hair destruction with no injury to the skin.

Poorer candidates have lighter brown hair or darker skin. Some laser systems are also unable to treat East Indian or African American skin types. The poorest candidates of all are those with blonde, grey or white hair. Typically these individuals will have no hair removal with the laser systems.

Remember, laser hair removal is effective for actively growing hairs only. Some hair follicles are in a dormant phase with no visible hair present so they won't be destroyed by laser treatment.

In order to get maximum hair removal, five to six sessions may be required. The cost varies according to the size of the area being treated, but the price range per session should run between $150 - $600 CDN. Finally, M.D's, aestheticians, and non-medical individuals can perform laser hair removal. Beyond looking for a clean facility, ask about their credentials, as well as what risks and complications could occur and how recent the technology they are using is.

If they can't answer these questions, go somewhere else.

This interview was conducted by the Florida magazine "Ocean Drive"

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