Laser hair removal is an exciting, "bread and butter" part of Dr. Downie's practice. Unwanted hair on the face, neck, ears, underarms, chest, back, bikini area, legs, or other parts of the body is unattractive and requires hours of your time to wax, shave, chemically remove, or pluck. With laser hair removal treatments by a trained dermatologist, you can safely and effectively thin or remove that hair.

Laser hair removal permanently destroys the follicle, so that hair cannot regrow. However, only hairs in an active growth stage respond to the laser. Because of hair's natural growth cycle, it can take many treatment sessions over a period of months to years to completely remove hair from a given area of your body. Dr. Downie recommends regular appointments every four to six weeks, which may need to be continued for at least a year to see permanent results. However, patients that continue to come in for laser sessions are amazed at the results. Dr. Downie knows this first-hand – she has completed laser hair removal on her own legs and underarms and has not had to shave in six years! She has also thinned the hair on her arms, and is presently treating hormonally-driven, stubborn upper lip growth successfully.

The laser targets pigmentation of the hair follicle in order to remove it. Gray or white hairs do not respond, so it is important to think about laser hair removal in your 30s and 40s, to avoid a race against time. Otherwise, virtually everyone is a candidate for laser hair removal. Dr. Downie's office has two laser systems, accommodating all skin colors.

Laser hair removal is well-tolerated, but some patients feel a bit of a sting. Mild discomfort may be experienced, but is easily managed with ice. Daily use of sun protection (SPF 30 or above) after treatment is a must.

Dr. Downie's hair removal lasers are FDA-approved, safe and effective for all skin types and shades. Treatments are affordable. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Downie to get started removing unwanted hair and simplifying your daily grooming routine.