A. Topical anesthetic ointments applied an hour before can help reduce discomfort. If you are really sensitive, you could ask the doctor to do an injection of an anesthetic. Finding a doctor who has the new Lumenis Duet Laser that uses suction to reduce pain might be considered. Finally, if you happen to also want Botox injections for sweat reduction, if the Botox is done 2 weeks before laser, the laser might hurt less. Another interesting fact: as the hair is reduced by treatments, subsequent treatments hurt less because there is less hair to absorb the laser energy and produce heat.
Q. I am considering trying laser hair removal again. I found it was not successful several years ago when I tried it at a day spa for the severe, coarse hairs on my chin and upper lip. Have there been advances that would make it work better for me this time?
A. Whenever a patient goes to a med spa, I worry that the medical causes of excessive facial hair are being overlooked and this not only dooms the treatment's success, but more importantly, a medical problem that is causing the hair growth may be overlooked. It is better to get a consult by a cosmetic dermatologist who will look at you as a patient first and ask the questions that will alert her to possible hormonal problems such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. Symptoms of irregular menstrual periods, acne, blotchy skin, obesity, facial hair, and in severe cases, scalp hair loss, are all symptoms of androgen excess. Treatments are available and the laser hair reduction will be more successful if the underlying hormonal imbalance is detected and treated. To also answer your question: I have found the new Lightsheer Duet to be an improvement because of the suction that decreases pain and increases the speed of the procedure. Good luck.
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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.
