Laser hair removal vs. laser hair reduction in Montclair

You have probably heard about the growing popularity of laser hair reduction and removal. With a series of comfortable treatments, this state of the art technology can rid you of unwanted body hair forever. You may be wondering – what is the difference between laser hair reduction and removal?

Often, the terms reduction and removal are used interchangeably. Laser treatment is precision work, targeting each follicle individually. Only those in the active growth phase are responsive, requiring multiple sessions to treat each hair at the optimal time. Ideally, after the required number of sessions are completed, all follicles in the treated area will be rendered incapable of growing hair.

Most patients see a dramatic reduction in new growth after the very first treatment, and virtually no re-growth after the series of treatments are complete. However, depending on the size, type, and color of hair, some follicles are more resistant to laser treatment than others are. Additionally, there is a chance of a follicle recovering, or a new one being created after a period of time. This may result in an occasional hair appearing; maintenance treatments (usually once a year) are recommended to prevent this re-growth.

Actual Patient Results

This procedure is usually referred to as permanent laser hair removal, because you will be essentially hair-free in the treated areas for life. However, some prefer the term laser hair reduction, due to the possibility of minimal regrowth without maintenance treatments. Many patients are confused by these terms being used interchangeably. In this context, they meant the same thing – no more shaving, waxing, plucking, or harsh creams. However, the term laser hair reduction can also mean exactly what it says.

Complete removal of hair isn’t always the desired result. You may simply want to “clean up” the edges of areas that should have hair. In some cases, the hair is simply too dense, and needs to be thinned. For example, many men would like less chest hair, but do not want it removed completely.

Because laser treatment is precision targeted, one follicle at a time, it is customizable to the patient’s needs. With the extensive experience and expertise of your dermatologist, Dr. Jeanine Downie, you can have the results you desire. For laser hair reduction or removal, call (973) 509-6900 image Dermatology ® P.C. in Montclair and schedule an appointment to put down the razor forever.

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.