Laser Hair Removal Clinical Trials

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a treatment method that removes unwanted hair using laser light. The treatment is advantageous because it disrupts the hair growth cycle for several months or years through a short series of sessions.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

During a laser hair removal session, the provider directs a focused beam of laser light to targeted hair follicles using a small handheld applicator. The laser light enters many hair follicles at once. Inside the hair follicles, the laser light is picked up by the pigment in the hair that is present. This transforms the light into thermal energy. The thermal energy transfers from the vaporized hair to the lining of the hair follicle, disabling its hair growth cycle.

How Long Does the Treatment Take?

Each laser hair removal session can take from a few minutes to over an hour. This depends on the size of the area you want to treat. A small area such as the upper lip or the chin may take about 20 minutes. Larger areas such as the entire back or the legs can take up to 90 minutes. Each treatment session lasts the same length of time, even once your hair growth has decreased. This is necessary to fully disable all of the hair follicles in the area of focus.

How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Will I Need?

On average, we recommend at least four treatment sessions for long-lasting results. That said, the number of treatments that you will need depends on several factors. If you have lighter hair, it may take more sessions to achieve optimal results. The same may be true for finer hair or your complexion. The technology of the laser device may also influence the number of sessions that are needed. We are continually exploring innovative technologies in the area of laser hair removal to advance this treatment in the areas of comfort, efficacy, and safety. During your consultation for laser hair removal at our Skin Care Research center, your provider will explain the technology that is being studied, what you can expect, and how many sessions they recommend for your unique situation.

Are there any Risks Associated with Laser Hair Removal?

The laser hair removal procedure has been around for many years. It is considered safe when performed by a well-trained technician. Risks associated with this laser technique include changes in the pigmentation of the skin, blisters, scars, and infection. Our staff takes extraordinary care to reduce the risks of laser hair removal by thoroughly understanding our equipment, carefully selecting study participants, and performing treatments with extreme caution.

Is Laser Hair Removal Painful?

Laser hair removal can be slightly uncomfortable due to the heating of the hair follicles. To reduce “zaps” of energy, we recommend shaving the day prior to your sessions. When your hair is short, the amount of energy that builds up in the follicles is kept to the bare minimum. The minor discomfort that can occur during treatment is only temporary. After your treatment, the area may feel sunburned or sensitive for a few hours or a few days. To manage this side effect, you may apply cold compresses to your skin as needed.