Laser Hair Removal in Toms River & Manasquan, NJ

What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser technology has become one of the cornerstones of aesthetic medicine. The lasers that are available today gently and effectively remove unwanted hair to give people the smooth skin they desire. Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that works on the principle of selective thermolysis. Each time laser light penetrates hair follicles, the pigment in the hair is targeted for destruction. In addition to vaporizing hair that is growing in the follicle at the time of treatment, laser light also damages individual follicles, significantly inhibiting future hair growth.
Laser hair removal is not considered a permanent form of hair removal. However, the results of this treatment are expected to last many years.

Who are the candidates for laser hair removal?

Several factors affect the decision regarding who is and is not a good candidate for laser hair removal. Laser light is very intense. During treatments, light targets the pigment, or color, in hair. By targeting pigment (melanin), the laser breaks down hair follicles without damaging the skin. However, hair color and skin type do matter.
It is ideal for people with darker, coarser hair and lighter skin. However, thanks to advances in laser technology, modern devices are capable of treating a wider range of complexions, including those that have little contrast between skin and hair. The exception is very blonde, thin, or grey hairs, which have little to no melanin to absorb laser energy.

Contraindications to Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is not for everyone. If you are someone who is currently using Accutane, you must stop using the medication for at least six months before beginning laser hair removal. If you are pregnant or currently breastfeeding, we do not recommend laser treatments.

What are the Benefits of Laser Treatment?

The primary advantage of laser hair removal is that this treatment achieves lasting results that begin after the very first session. Laser treatment can be conducted on virtually any part of the body where significant change is desired. Common treatment areas include:

• Upper lip
• Beard and throat
• Bikini area
• Underarms
• Arms
• Chest and abdomen
• Shoulders and back
• Legs
• Toes/feet

What are the Disadvantages of Laser Hair Removal?

It has very few disadvantages. People interested in long-term results are advised to obtain treatment from a trained professional. Care must be taken during the hair removal process to target all hair follicles without depositing too much heat into the upper layers of the skin. Overheating can result in burns and scarring.

How often can I get a laser treatment?

Body hair grows in phases. Follicles are in an active growth phase only 20 to 30 percent of the time. Laser treatment targets follicles that are active at the time. It is necessary to repeat treatment every 6 to 8 weeks until the cycle of hair growth has been completed. Hair begins to shed 2 to 3 weeks after the first treatment. After that time, hair that grows in is usually thinner and lighter. With every treatment that is performed, usually between 5 and 8, hair growth decreases exponentially. Touch-ups can be sought as needed if hair growth resumes. This may not occur for years after a series of treatments is completed.

How Should I Prepare For My Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

There is very little to do to maximize the comfort and efficacy of hair removal treatments. Patients are advised by Dr. Foster to:

• Avoid tanning and the use of self-tanners several weeks before treatment.
• Avoid products that increase skin sensitivity, including exfoliating chemicals and certain essential oils.
• Stop plucking and waxing at least two weeks before treatment.
• Shave the day before each session.

Is Hair Removal Painful?

Laser hair removal is generally comfortable for most people. Patients report feeling a slight stinging or snapping sensation as pulses of laser light are absorbed. These effects last only momentarily, easing into diffuse warming as treatment progresses.

What Are Misconceptions About Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a quick, convenient, safe, and easy way to get rid of unwanted hair. However, there are many misconceptions about this treatment. These misconceptions can include the following:

Laser hair removal only works on people with light-colored skin. While people with darker skin are more prone to burns and hyperpigmentation when it comes to laser hair removal, it does not mean that the hair removal process will not work on them. Laser hair removal can be performed effectively on all skin and hair types. At FosterMD, we take great care to provide customized treatments to each patient based on their skin and hair type.

The results are temporary, and, therefore, not worth it. While laser hair removal cannot provide completely permanent results, it can achieve complete removal of unwanted hair for up to a year. After a number of sessions, you will notice a lack of hair growth in the treated area. This area can remain hairless for a year until you’ll need a touch-up appointment. To many patients, one laser hair removal treatment each year is more convenient than shaving daily.

Laser hair removal is only for women. Believe it or not, laser hair removal works effectively on both women and men. This treatment is actually highly effective for men, especially if you suffer from razor burns or ingrown hairs from shaving daily. Most men receive laser hair removal treatment on their face, neck, and even their beards or sideburns.

Are There Any Risks with Laser Hair Removal?

Just like any other laser treatment, laser hair removal does come with several risks, including

• Skin irritation
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Scarring
• Increased risk of sunburn and sun damage
• Skin lightening
• Hyperpigmentation
• Burning
• Blistering
• Infection
• Although laser hair removal is a safe procedure and these risks are extremely rare, we recommend paying close attention to how your skin reacts after your first laser hair removal treatment.

How Much Does Laser Hair Removal Cost?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of laser hair removal in the United States can reach up to $582. However, this estimated cost may not cover the following:

Location
Prescription medications
Because laser hair removal is usually a cosmetic treatment, most health insurance companies do not cover the costs. We recommend you consult your primary health insurance provider to find out if any of your laser hair removal treatments can be covered.

What Our Patients Have to Say

“I can’t say enough about this wonderful doctor and his staff! I recently had a cosmetic procedure and I’m so very happy with my results and the entire experience. What a great bunch! I highly recommend!” -Olivia R. 

What does the recovery process look like?

There is no downtime needed to recover. Some people may experience minor swelling and redness in the treatment area that lasts from a few hours to a few days.
After sessions, patients are advised to:

• Avoid strenuous exercise for one day.
• Take a cool shower if they wish to bathe. Hot showers and baths can resume the next day.
• Avoid exfoliation and harsh chemical products for a week to ten days.
• Avoid sun exposure for two weeks, including tanning beds.

Schedule A Consultation

We are happy to provide Laser Hair Removal procedures to our patients in both of our offices! Schedule a Laser Hair Removal consultation by calling 732.914.2233 for our Toms River location or 732.449.2099 for our Manasquan location. See if Laser Hair Removal is right for you!