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What Age Can You Get Laser Hair Removal?

Laser Hair Removal Memphis

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Bothersome or embarrassing hair can appear in childhood and adolescence. Many young people and their parents have started to think about laser hair removal. This procedure can eliminate unwanted hair, but those considering it should be mature enough to understand what to expect. 

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal uses rapid pulses of energy to target hair follicles and prevent them from growing new hairs. Each active follicle contains a pigmented hair root. The laser heats the pigments in the hair root and damages the follicle. The laser only targets these pigments and does not harm the surrounding skin. 

Laser Hair Removal Treatment Memphis

What Age Can You Get Laser Hair Removal?

There is no “right” age to begin the laser hair removal process. People under 18 can have laser hair removal if an assessment determines that they are mature enough to understand and consent to the procedure. Individuals under 18 will need a parent’s approval for treatment. If you are under 18 and deeply bothered by your body or facial hair, we recommend a consultation that includes you, your parent or guardian, and your dermatologist. 

How Many Laser Hair Removal Sessions Will I Need?

Eliminating unwanted hair requires several treatment sessions. Not all hair follicles will have active growth during your first session. After each treatment, you will see less hair regrowth. Most people need an average of six treatments spaced six weeks apart to achieve the desired results. After treatment, many people will have yearly maintenance treatments to control stray hairs. 

How To Prepare for Laser Hair Removal

Since laser hair removal takes several sessions, you will want to make each one as effective as possible. Following these suggestions will protect your skin and ensure you get the most from your treatment

Hair Removal

You need hair roots for your treatment to work. You should avoid hair removal methods that pull out the root, including waxing, epilating, and plucking. You can still shave, and we recommend shaving a day or two before your appointment. 

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure or artificial tanning can affect how well the laser works and increase your risk of side effects. Quality sun protection and covering up the treatment areas will make treatment safer and more effective. 

Bleaching

Bleaching your hair removes the pigment in the hair root. Hairs without pigment are invisible to the laser, so they will not be treated. Stop bleaching hair several weeks before your appointment so you can treat all your active hair. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Most people over 18, and some people under that age, make good candidates for laser hair removal. Our dermatologists have the skill to safely treat most shades of hair on almost any skin tone. You may not be a good candidate if you have certain skin conditions. 

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To learn more about laser hair removal, please schedule your consultation by either filling out the form on this page or by calling Levy Dermatology at (901) 624-3333. Levy Dermatology serves patients in the Memphis, Jackson & Collierville, TN areas

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Learn more today about medical and cosmetic dermatology services today. Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our highly trained medical staff at Levy Dermatology will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.