Are you a good candidate for laser hair removal?

Unwanted body hair is a universal problem. It affects men and women of all ages, skin types, and ethnicities. You can shave it, wax it, pluck it, or use a cream to dissolve it. All of these methods work, but all of them are temporary. Depending on your hair growth rate, and the technique you use, your smooth skin might last from several hours to several days.

Dr. Jeanine Downie, like many other people in the Montclair area, decided she was tired of the hassle, the never-ending struggle, and the stubble. She opted for laser hair removal, and hasn’t needed a razor in years! Can you enjoy the same benefits? In all likelihood, the answer is yes. The two most common issues are skin color and hair color.

Light-colored hairs

Laser energy acts on the pigment (coloring) within the hair follicle. Therefore, dark-colored, coarse hairs respond the best, because they absorb the laser more readily. Light-colored and fine-textured hairs will respond, but they may require more sessions to achieve optimal results. If the hairs are completely absent of pigment (gray), laser treatment is not effective. If this is the case, we will discuss alternatives during your consultation.

Dark colored skin

Skin pigment, like hair pigment, can absorb laser energy. Technology has evolved and today, laser hair removal is safe for all skin types and tones – if it is performed by an experienced technician or physician.

Unfortunately, laser technicians in spa settings and even dermatologists are not always familiar with the nuances of treating dark skin tones. Treatments and techniques that are perfectly safe for the fair-skinned patient can have devastating results for the dark-skinned patient. Dr. Downie is a leading expert in ethnic skin care, and co-author of the book Beautiful Skin of Color: A Comprehensive Guide to Asian, Olive, and Dark Skin. She is the director of image Dermatology ® P.C., which serves Montclair and surrounding communities, as well as patients who travel from out of the area to visit us.

Come visit us for a consultation to learn more about your permanent hair removal options. Call (973) 509-6900 and arrange an appointment.

Dr. Jeanine Downie
image Dermatology ® P.C.

Dr. Jeanine Downie is an experienced and popular dermatologist in Montclair. She possesses extensive experience and training in all aspects of dermatology, including cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. Dr. Downie provides modern and cutting-edge dermatology treatments to everyone in your family in a professional, competent and compassionate manner while ensuring that your individual and unique needs are met. Having received rigorous academic training, she completed her residency in Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City and also served as Chief Resident. She continues to upgrade her skills set and share her knowledge through professional affiliations and lecturing assignments on behalf of several renowned medical societies such as The Skin Cancer Foundation and The American Academy of Dermatology, among others. She also frequently interacts with the public through popular television shows such as Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The Dr. Oz Show, to name a few.