The biggest limitations to laser hair removal in the past were firstly pain, and secondly, it was not safe if you had dark or tanned skin. However with the newer generation of diode lasers (which are the gold standard for laser hair removal worldwide), the treatments are more comfortable (some may say even painless), and also safe for dark skin types.

The procedure is quite a gentle process. Instead of the standard pulse method of treatment, the new diode lasers use an innovative in-motion technology that treats in a continuous sweeping motion. During the treatment, a high energy beam of light goes through the skin and is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle. The laser energy does not go into the skin as a painful blast, but rather heats the hair follicles safely and gently until they no longer produce hair in the treated area.

How safe is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatment that is considered effective and safe. Since laser hair removal does not effect surrounding skin tissues but only destroys the capability of hair growth, it is considered a popular and safe way for permanent hair removal.

How many sessions do I need for complete hair removal?

This is different for each individual. Deciding factors include skin colour, hair colour, hair density, hormones and medications. In general, approximately 4-6 treatments are needed to achieve lasting results.

Several sessions are needed as the hair may be in a different growth stage. In the active growth stage (85% of your hair), which can last several years, the hair grows steadily and the contains melanin. When melanin is exposed to the laser, the hair follicle is destroyed which makes this hair growth stage ideal for hair removal. However, after the growth stage there is the regression stage (3-4%) during which the hair stops growing, and the resting stage (10-13%) where the hair is getting ready to be replaced before falling out. During these 2 latter stages there is hardly any melanin present and therefore the hair will be difficult to remove through laser treatment. As the hair in the treated areas may be in different stages it is necessary to repeat the treatment various times.

What part of the body can be treated?

Hair removal can be performed on almost any part of the body. However, most people use this treatment for their legs, underarms, arms and the upper lip area.

Which laser hair removal method is recommended?

The diode laser that we recommend is the Soprano XL which uses the IN-MotionT technology that treats in a continuous sweeping motion. No more pain from pulsed movements and a relaxing, effective treatment that some people even compare to a hot stone massage!

Get rid of your unwanted hair with pain free hair removal in Singapore. You can find Dr Isabelle Yeoh at IYAC Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Clinic at Camden Medical Centre in Singapore. Website: http://www.iyac.com.sg