Laser hair removal update
By Dr. Mary Lupo
Anything that improves the selective absorption of the laser energy by the targeted hair follicle will improve the result and damage more follicles with fewer treatments and at less energy. Some of the things that help are suction to blanch the skin and bring the follicle closer to the surface and another is not being tanned. Having the patient not recently pluck or wax will insure that the follicle contains a hair and more heat will be generated. Finally, by shaving the patient immediately prior to the laser session, there will be no hair on the surface to absorb energy, compete with the follicular hair, or cause a surface burn. Contrary to urban myth, shaving does not increase or thicken existing hair.
Laser hair reduction does not work well on white or fine hairs since not enough heat is absorbed by these poor targets. It is best to get laser hair reduction before the hairs turn gray and while you are young enough to enjoy the life-long benefits of being hair-free. Men typically elect to have back hair removed, but it is also popular in men with ingrown facial and neck hairs. Women like to have the bikini, under arms and legs done, and of course, any unwanted facial hair as well. Because hair grows in cycles and only follicles with an actively growing hair can be damaged, multiple sessions are required. The number of sessions can vary widely from 3-4 in a fair person with darker hair, to 10-12 for patients with darker skin and heavy facial hair. The age of patients is from 12-80.
Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Mary P. Lupo, M.D. - Connect on Linkedin
Our mission at the Lupo Center is to provide patients with innovative, effective and ethical care to make each person look and feel their personal best. To fulfill our goal, we provide state-of-the-art medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to all patients.
Board certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology Mary P. Lupo, MD has been a leader in the field of non-surgical rejuvenation since 1983. She travels internationally to teach her innovative techniques, and her reputation brings in patients from around the country. She started the first formal residency training program for injectables and peels in 1983 at Tulane Medical School and served as past president of Women’s Dermatologic Society, adjunct professor of dermatology at Tulane and a founder of Cosmetic Boot Camp. Dr. Lupo holds membership in many prestigious dermatology associations, participates in clinical trials for approval of new drugs and devices and acts as an advisor for numerous aesthetic-minded companies.
