What should I do about thick hair and ingrown hair I get in the area under my belly button? (Photo)

Question

Recently I’ve been having problems with thick hair under my belly button. I’ve tried plucking, waxing, sugaring, and shaving the hair that appears there. However it still grows back faster than all my other hair and thicker, similar to that of pubic hair. Is this area a candidate for laser hair removal? If so, how many sessions am I looking at, what is the process, and how painful is it? What are the pros and cons? What other alternatives do I have?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi Kat. You are a perfect candidate for laser hair removal. The concerns you have are most commonly addressed by permanently removing the hair.  With your skin type, we would recommend a Diode or Alexandrite laser.  To see examples of laser hair removal before and after photos for our Los Angeles office, click on the link below.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

The best option is hair removal and when done right has no issues, but if not done properly can cause hyperpigmenation or scarring.  Please see an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Warren B. Seiler III, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! I'm
sorry that you're experiencing some discomfort. All of your efforts with the
plucking, waxing, etc could be causing a lot of irritation which leads to an
in-grown hair. This area is perfect for laser hair removal. After scheduling a
consultation, it usually takes 6-8 treatments, and they are scheduled six weeks
apart. You can use the product Tend Skin to help with in-growns, as well. We
use the LightSheer Duet, which is top of the line, and it is virtually
painless. Wish you the best!

Laura Riehm, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and posting pictures.  Based on your description, you would benefit from a series of LHR treatments.  You should probably seek out a laser vs. IPL to help avoid complications and almost no discomfort.  Almost all newer lasers are safe for all skin types and have features built in (such as sapphire cooling tips) to make them more comfortable.  Some of the newer technology is also more efficient, allowing for lower energy settings to be used with better results and less discomfort.  With modern equipment, your treatment should only be mildly uncomfortable, but not painful.  We never use numbing cream for LHR.  We want our patients to be able to tell us if they feel pain or an unusual level of discomfort.We recommend finding an experienced and reputable provider in your area with updated equipment.  A consistent overlapping technique is the key to avoiding patchiness in LHR.   Calibration and power of the laser is important for a safe, comfortable and effective treatment.  Find out what laser they will use and if it is under a maintenance contract.  If their laser isn’t calibrated on a regular basis or is underpowered, your treatment may be painful or inefficient. After a series of 6-8 initial treatments, you may need a touch up every 3-5 years.

Gary Nackman, MD, FACS · Answer

Laser hair removal is safe and effective for eliminating permanently the type of hair that is troubling you and is a great way to reduce in grown hairs.

What should I do about thick hair and ingrown hair I get in the area under my belly button? (Photo)

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