This section of the forum is dedicated to discussions on fractionated, non-ablative, and ablative laser and non-laser skin treatment methods for facial conditions other than acne scarring (See Acne/Acne Scarring Forum).
Hello,
Great question. I had the best laser on the market for laser hair removal, and I just traded it 3 months ago for a newer model that is even better (the Soprano XL). It is fantastic for laser hair removal.
Now let's begin with understanding what "permanent removal" is all about. I think that is a term that is dangerous and also illegal. The FDA has approved the term "permanent reduction" instead. What the FDA defines as permanent reduction is the reduction of the number of hairs in a given hair cycle that are in the growth phase. Fortunately 90% of our hairs are in the growth or anagen phase (more about that in a moment). Also, some of these hairs may not be entirely damaged and grow back necessitating multiple treatments. Second, some of the thicker, terminal hairs are converted into fine baby vellus hairs but not removed. That is in general okay since vellus hairs are all over your body, and you can barely see them.
As far as anagen growth phase, it is very robust in the scalp but very slow in the other parts of the body including the brow hair (how often do you need to cut brow hair compared with the scalp hair?). so laser hair removal is less powerful than if you were trying to remove scalp hair. however, it is still very effective when you perform multiple sessions in that area.
also understand that some lasers are better for certain kinds of skin color. my laser really covers everything from Caucasians to Africans. Finally, here is the kicker. I have heard that laser hair removal in the brow area can lead to blindness (especially between the eyes) so I recommend people that want brow hair reduced to use electrolysis instead of laser hair removal for safety.
Understand that electrolysis is highly dependent on two variables: the technician (mostly) and the equipment. You can get crappy results or good ones depending on where you go. I would advise you to consider electrolysis by a strong recommendation of someone who has used that person's services. Electrolysis is good for removing hair in a small discrete area. Laser hair removal is good for removing hair over a large area of the body or face (other than the brow region).
hope that helps,
sml
Samuel M. Lam, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Diplomate, American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery
we are pretty price competitive.
upper lip and chin is $129 per session/$650 for a package of 6 (which you generally need)
full face is $225 per session/$1,147.59 for 6.
Samuel M. Lam, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Diplomate, American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery
Samuel M. Lam, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Diplomate, American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery