Unwanted Hair

Laser hair reduction uses concentrated light energy to target the pigment (melanin) in hair follicles. The laser delivers precise wavelengths that are absorbed by the melanin, converting to heat energy that damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth. The surrounding skin remains unharmed because the laser selectively targets the darker pigment in the hair.

Hair grows in three phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting/shedding). Laser treatment is most effective during the anagen phase when the hair is actively connected to the follicle. Since only a portion of hairs are in anagen at any given time, multiple sessions are required to target hairs as they enter their active growth phase. Most patients achieve 70 to 90% reduction in hair growth after completing their treatment series, often requiring occasional maintenance.

Laser hair reduction works for most people, though results vary based on individual factors. Best candidates typically have dark hair (black, brown, dark blonde) and are seeking long-term reduction in unwanted hair, desiring to minimize the irritation from shaving, waxing, or plucking. Candidates should be committed to completing the full treatment series and be able to avoid sun exposure during treatment.

• May require more sessions:
• Light blonde, red, or grey hair (less melanin to target)
• Hormonal conditions affecting hair growth (PCOS, etc.)
• Very fine or vellus hair

A consultation is recommended for patients with active skin conditions in the treatment area, those on photosensitizing medications, or individuals with a history of keloid scarring.

At Skinfolio, our advanced laser technology works safely and effectively across the full spectrum of skin types. Our lasers are calibrated to treat everyone from light to dark skin tones. Different skin types require specific laser settings; darker skin contains more melanin, which can compete with the melanin in the hair for laser absorption. Our certified technicians adjust wavelength, pulse duration, and energy levels based on your specific skin type to ensure safe, effective treatment.

Hair characteristics also influence treatment: coarse, dark hair responds best and typically requires fewer sessions, while fine hair or light hair (blonde, red, grey) may require additional sessions or specialized approaches due to less melanin.

Laser hair reduction can be performed on virtually any area of the body where unwanted hair grows. Common treatment areas include the face (upper lip, chin, jawline, full face), underarms, arms (half or full), hands and fingers, legs (lower, upper, or full), feet and toes, and the bikini area (standard, extended, or Brazilian).

Many patients also opt for treatment on the torso (back, chest, stomach, shoulders) and other areas such as the neck, buttocks, or nipple area. Treatments for facial hair and the bikini area are particularly popular for reducing ingrown hairs and eliminating the need for frequent maintenance. Session length varies by area, from a few minutes to over an hour.

Most patients require 6 to 8 sessions to achieve optimal results. The number of sessions is influenced by hair color and thickness, skin type, hormonal factors, and the specific treatment area. Each session targets new groups of hair entering the active growth phase, which is why multiple sessions spaced over time are essential.

Session spacing is typically 4 to 6 weeks for the face and 6 to 8 weeks for the body, allowing new hairs to enter the anagen phase. A full treatment course usually spans 6 to 12 months. At each session, the area is cleansed, laser settings are calibrated, pulses of light are delivered with cooling protection, and soothing products are applied post-treatment.

Patients typically observe progressive reduction in hair growth. After 1 to 2 sessions, some reduction may be noticeable, with significant reduction and slower regrowth after 3 to 4 sessions. Following 6 to 8 sessions, a 70 to 90% permanent reduction is generally achieved. Any hair that regrows is typically finer, lighter, and less noticeable.

Most patients benefit from occasional maintenance sessions (1 to 2 per year) to address any hormonal regrowth or hairs that were dormant during the initial treatment series. The long-term benefits include freedom from daily shaving, reduced ingrown hairs and razor burn, smoother skin texture, and time savings compared to ongoing traditional hair removal methods.