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Click to download a printable version of this articleLaser Hair Removal Smooth Healthy Skin Reesults from Laser Hair Removal

Unwanted hair is not only a nuisance but can be extremely embarrassing as well.  Some of the typical solutions for removing hair, such as shaving, waxing or electrolysis offer only short-lived results and can be time consuming, painful, impractical or just plain annoying.
Permanent Hair Reduction with the Palomar Pulsed Light System (commonly referred to as laser hair removal) offers a long lasting solution for unwanted hair.  The pulses of light permanently disable cells in the hair follicle.  The treatments can be just as fast as waxing and the integrated cooling system makes the treatments much more comfortable than electrolysis or waxing.  Choosing laser hair removal offers a more convenient alternative to convention methods of hair removal as the hair can be shaved or trimmed between treatments allowing the area to remain hair-free throughout the course of treatment.  Laser hair removal also helps to remedy unsightly bumps associated with razor burn and ingrown hairs commonly caused by waxing and/or shaving.
Any area of the body, except for around the eyes, can be treated with the Palomar IPL.  The hand piece is moved over the skin as it pulses light.  The light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair which heats up the hair follicle, disabling it.
Immediately after treatment, redness and a sensation similar to sunburn may be expected.  This is a temporary reaction and usually subsides within 2-24 hours.  The hair will remain in the skin for approximately 10-20 days at which time the skin will release its hold on the hair.  This is not new growth; rather, it is the treated hair being shed from the skin.  Several treatments are necessary for permanent hair reduction with an expected reduction rate of approximately 7-10% per treatment.  Retreatment can vary between 2-10 weeks depending on the area being treated with IPL laser.
The ideal candidate for IPL laser hair reduction has fair skin and dark, course hair.  However, darker skin tones have been treated successfully.  If there is any question or doubt about the success of treatment for a particular skin tone/hair color, it is advised to consult with a laser technician.