Going to laser for appx 3 years monthly and still covered in hair, stubborn pepper spots and worsened hyperpigmentation! (Photo)

Question

Body hair still growing long, black pepper spots EVERYWHERE. They do not and have not fallen out over the 2 years and the laser tech always tells me that they will “fall out later” but they haven’t and I have tried it all. I do not have PCOS. after every single session of laser on my back, neck, or upper arms I am COVERED in whiteheads. I have major hyperpigmentation on my back which has gotten worse AFTER I started laser. My laser technician uses a Candela GentleLase machine set at level 12.

Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD · Answer

Laser hair removal can be a lengthy process and perhaps a different laser and setting can be helpful.  The white bumps may be related to inflammation of the follicles and possibly a bacterial infection.  You should schedule an in-person evaluation with your Dermatologist to evaluate your current status.Be sure to be seen by a Board Certified Dermatologist.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

This, unfortunately, does not penetrate deep enough through the dermis for effective hair removal.  The ND:YAG laser, using 1064nm wavelength, penetrates deep into the dermis all the way to the root of the hair follicle, called the papilla, where the hair is actually made.  Also, your hair must be in the mitotic or growing stage in order for the laser to effectively destroy the root.  This can be accomplished by shaving the area to be treated one to two weeks prior to the laser treatment.

Richard D. Freier, MD · Answer

I believe the GentleLase is a Long Pulse Alexandrite laser using 755nm wavelength.  This, unfortunately, does not penetrate deep enough through the dermis for effective hair removal.  The ND:YAG laser, using 1064nm wavelength, penetrates deep into the dermis all the way to the root of the hair follicle, called the papilla, where the hair is actually made.  Also, your hair must be in the mitotic or growing stage in order for the laser to effectively destroy the root.  This can be accomplished by shaving the area to be treated one to two weeks prior to the laser treatment.
I hope this helps.

Going to laser for appx 3 years monthly and still covered in hair, stubborn pepper spots and worsened hyperpigmentation! (Photo)

Answers (3)

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