Do you have to choose laser hair removal vs. laser hair reduction?

You’ve had it! You are fed up with razor rash, wax burns, razor bumps and messy depilatories. You want smooth, hair-free skin without a tedious daily routine. Like many individuals in Glen Ridge and surrounding areas, you may be unsure whether to choose laser hair removal vs. laser hair reduction. Dr. Jeanine Downie of image Dermatology ® P.C. sheds light on this question.

What is laser hair removal?

This is the common name for a medical procedure in which a focused beam of laser light passes through the skin. Laser energy is absorbed by pigment in hairs, where its intense heat damages the follicles and inhibits further growth.

What is laser hair reduction?

You want a sleek look, so “removal” sounds better than “reduction,” right? This is a common misconception. Actually both phrases describe the same procedure, and laser hair reduction is the more correct term for two reasons. First, hair grows in three stages. Only hairs in the anagen growth phase respond to laser treatment. You’ll see improvement with the first treatment, but a series of sessions is necessary to achieve full clearance. Second, once a hair follicle is destroyed by the laser, that effect is permanent. However, over time your body will continue to produce some new hair follicles, although at a much slower pace than during adolescence. Periodic re-treatment keeps skin hair free.

Actual Patient Results

What areas are appropriate for treatment?

With a wealth of training and experience and the latest laser instruments, Dr. Downie can treat essentially any area of the face or body. Ladies love silky legs and carefree bikini lines and underarms. Guys go for sexy smooth backs, chests, necks, and cheeks. Hair can be removed from upper lips, heads, hands, arms, and even toes.

Who is a good candidate for laser hair reduction?

Typically those with light skin and dark hair achieve the best results. However, Dr. Downie has the equipment and experience to successfully treat most skin types and all hair colors with the exception of white.

Is laser hair reduction safe?

It is at image Dermatology ® P.C.. Before scheduling treatment, Dr. Downie takes time to understand your hair removal goals, and to thoroughly analyze your skin and hair. She talks with you about preparing for treatment and aftercare. She uses current FDA cleared equipment and takes every precaution to ensure your comfort during treatment, which is performed in a sterile clinical setting.

Laser hair reduction is an exciting step in transforming your appearance, and you probably have additional questions. Call image Dermatology ® P.C. today at (973) 509-6900 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Downie.

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.