How should the laser hair removal device be held during treatment?

Question

I am undergoing laser hair removal and notice that the lady treating me hovers the device over my skin on the most part. She doesn't touch it on the skin much. I've pointed it out to her but she carried on doing it the way she wanted. I worry that much of the laser energy dissipates over the extra distance created so won't remove my hair as effectively. Please let me know what you think.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi SD.  There are several types of laser (and IPL) technology used for laser hair removal.  Generally speaking, Diode, Yag and Alexandrite are the accepted laser types for hair removal and the IPL is often used but is less effective.In most cases, the Diode, Yag and IPL use contact cooling so touch the skin and often go hand in hand with a cool gel that is used to slide the device along the skin during treatment.  The Alexandrite technology often uses air or non-contact cooling spray such as cryogen.  In this case, the device is held above the skin.  You may want to ask which device your practitioner is using and then you can do a little research online for how it cools the skin.  The ultimate test is whether the treatments deliver permanent hair removal. If they do, then the cooling method should be fine.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.This can depend on the type of laser hair removal machine your technician is using. Not all machines have to be placed directly on the skin, some can hover over the skin and have the same results. To be sure, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a
complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for
you to have treatment.

I hope this helps.

How should the laser hair removal device be held during treatment?

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How should the laser hair removal device be held during treatment?

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Hair Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.