Lasers can now effectively remove in-grown hairs, known as hair bumps or pseudofolliculitis barbae. We have many such lasers that are FDA approved to treat this distressing condition. Patients see noticeable results after just one session, and best of all, the reduction of in-grown hairs are permanent.
- Our center has 8 hair removal lasers to better optimize patients treatments
- FDA approved for pseudofolliculitis (hair bumps)
- Fast
- Affordable
- Treatment areas include the beard, bikini line, face and many other sites
- Any area with dark hair may be treated
- Large areas done at a time
- Multiple areas done at a time
- Minimal risk
Medications and shaving with an electric razor may reduce in-grown hair formation.
The laser is passed over the skin, and light energy is absorbed by dark pigment in hair follicles beneath the skin, disabling hundreds of hairs and in-grown hairs at a time.
The proper selection of the optimal laser, depending upon hair and skin type is imperative. Our center has tested other systems, such as the Softlight laser, the long pulse Ruby lasers (EpilaserT, Palomar E2000), and the Alexandrite lasers (GentleLASET), Nd-Yag Lasers (GentleYAG), and other non-laser devices such as Aurora, Vasculite, IPL.
None of these systems were adequate for all skin types. The significant technological advantages of our lasers over older laser systems are
- a longer wavelength of light which allows for deeper penetration, permitting the light to preferentially by-pass the overlying skin and target the hair follicles below
- the longer pulse duration which also permits deeper penetration while sparing the skin surface
- white sapphire, direct, contact cooling, which efficiently dissipates heat on the skin surface, compared to spray cooling in other systems
- a quicker treatment, important for larger areas such as the back or entire leg
With 8 lasers for hair removal available at our center at all times, we are able to treat all skin types from the fairest to the darkest, and even tanned skin.
The end result is permanent reduction or elimination of in-grown hairs and pseudofolliculitis barbae. In fact, our lasers are FDA approved for pseudofolliculitis barbae and for permanent hair reduction
It is important to perform test spots with increasing energy settings on every individual considering this procedure at the time of the initial consultation. In this way, we can later start the treatments at the highest energy to destroy the greatest number of hair follicles, while knowing that the overlying skin will not be injured. Test spots will thus allow the patient to undergo the fewest number of sessions as is possible.
The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
Usually no down time, though some patients can have some mild swelling for a few hours.
Patients will require multiple sessions; however the number of treatments needed is dependent on the laser energy setting, and the patient's skin and hair type. The laser treatments work by actually disabling the hair that is in the active growth phase at the time of the treatment.
Not all of individuals' hair follicles are producing hair at the same time, but actually go through 3 different phases: growth, regression and resting. Since other hairs will eventually enter into the active growth phase at different times, additional treatments may be necessary to inactivate other hair follicles in a given area.
Following the treatment, most patients return to their normal activity immediately.
The procedure is well tolerated, though sensitive areas require a topical anesthetic cream.
On the treatment day, closely shave the treatment areas. If needed, place a 1/8th inch layer of over the counter anesthetic cream on the areas to be treated 45 minutes prior to the appointment. After the white cream is absorbed, reapply the cream again for an added anesthetic effect.
Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol for a few days following the procedure. Ice packs can help to minimize swelling should it develop.
Dr. Berman, Physician Assistants and Registered Nurses perform the procedure.
