Laser hair removal treatment is an FDA-approved method to reduce unwanted hair. It is non-invasive and can be a permanent solution for minimizing body and face hair.
During laser hair removal sessions, patients can be nearly hair-free in only a few months. Many patients also combine the results of gender-affirming surgeries with laser hair removal. Since this treatment tackles hair follicles during the growing stage, approximately 6 to 8 treatments will be spaced out one month apart to achieve ideal results.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Laser hair removal is a safe treatment that can be performed on any body part with minimal downtime. You can expect a mild stinging sensation during the procedure, but most patients tolerate it well.
How Does This Treatment Work?
Other hair removal treatments like shaving, waxing, and tweezing can be time-consuming, painful, and irritating to the skin. On the other hand, laser therapy is a relatively painless and permanent solution for hair removal and uses technology that rejuvenates the skin.
Does Laser Hair Removal Work on All Types of Hair?
Laser hair removal effectively reduces hair growth when it comes to finer hair; however, it is not as effective for hair density. Since hair density is affected by male hormones, hormone therapy combined with laser hair removal is the most effective way to achieve the desired results.
Is This Treatment a Long-Term Solution?
Laser hair removal does provide long-term hair reduction and can be used on every body part except for the eyebrows and ears. However, it is most effective for hair that is light, medium, or olive skin with dark hair. For blonde, strawberry blonde, white or grey hair, it is not as effective. Dark brown and black skin also has a higher risk of burns, scars, and hyperpigmentation.
To fully benefit from this treatment, it is helpful to cease using other hair removal methods (except for shaving) at least ten weeks before starting treatment. Shaving can be done up to two days before you undergo treatment.
What Devices Are Used for Laser Hair Removal?
On the market right now, there are many effective laser devices used for hair removal. The most commonly used are:
- NeoDymium Yttrium Aluminum Garnets (Nd:YAG)
- Ruby Lasers
- Alexandrite Lasers
- Diode Lasers
It is necessary to work with a renowned laser hair removal provider to perform the required safety measures. Be sure to put in the time and research when finding a laser hair removal provider and ensure they have years of experience.
In Summary
For transgender patients looking for excellent hair removal options, laser hair removal is popular due to its long-lasting and painless results. Laser hair removal can be expensive but is usually worth the cost and can minimize future hair removal costs since you will no longer need to use other hair removal methods. If you are able to afford laser hair removal treatment, it can be gender-affirming for my patients.
