Center of Dermatology and Laser Surgery of Philadelphia
Written by Dr. Ringpfeil
Laser hair removal is offered everywhere. At the local spas, dentist offices, gynecologist offices, and more. "Special offers" can be found on Groupon and other big letters ads.
Still,
Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology provides you the best value for removing your unwanted hair permanently.
How can a reputable cosmetic dermatology practice compete in this saturated market?
Simply,
we use multiple lasers that are the most effective for each skin type and we have the experience and medical knowledge to use aggressive laser settings to achieve faster and better results without compromising your safety.
Separately, we offer threading for eyebrows and facial hair.
One laser for all skin type e.g. a Diode laser, which requires more treatments for light skin, and many more treatments for darker skin.
IPL - Not effective, usually is offered by Spas and Medspas
The laser beam targets the darker pigment of the hair follicle and destroys it. However, hair follicles have a life cycle of four phases and the hair follicle is sensitive to the laser energy only when the hair is in one specific phase - the growth phase (telogen phase). Unfortunately, a single treatment cannot destroy all hair follicles and any moment only 50% of the hair follicles are in the telogen phase. Therefore, multiple treatments must be performed in a very specific time interval to target most of the follicles when they are in the telogen phase. It is easier for the laser beam to target darker follicle pigment when the background skin is light. When the skin is darker, some of the beam is diverted and hits the skin. Therefore, not only is there a risk that the skin pigment will be damaged, but also the beam energy that hits the follicle is often not strong enough to destroy it. Therefore, the treatment is less effective for hair in darker skin and more treatments may be needed to achieve expected results.
Normally, 4-6 treatments are needed for people with light skin and dark hair. About 6-8 treatments are needed for people with dark skin.
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that requires expert oversight to be performed safely and effectively. When performed by trained medical professionals using FDA-cleared laser systems, the procedure is considered very safe. However, as with any energy-based treatment, some risks exist.
Possible side effects may include:
These risks are significantly reduced when the treatment is performed by experienced medical providers using the correct laser for the patient’s skin type. At Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology, a board-certified dermatologist is always on site to ensure that laser settings are selected based on skin tone, hair type, and medical history. In fact, we are often asked to manage side effects created at facilities that have no dermatologist on site
Using the appropriate laser technology, performing proper skin cooling, and spacing treatments according to the hair growth cycle all help minimize side effects while improving hair reduction results.
Most patients require 4 to 6 treatments for lighter skin and 6 to 8 treatments for darker skin. This is because hair grows in cycles, and the laser only affects hair in the active growth phase. Contact our office to schedule your appointment.
Laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth. Many treated hairs do not grow back, and those that do usually return finer and lighter. Periodic maintenance treatments may be needed.
Yes, when the correct laser is used. Nd:YAG lasers are specifically designed to safely treat darker skin tones by bypassing surface pigment and targeting the hair follicle.
Different skin tones and hair types absorb laser energy differently. Using the wrong laser can lead to burns, pigment changes, or ineffective results. That is why Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology uses Alexandrite, Nd:YAG, and Mirasmooth technologies instead of a one-size-fits-all device.
Most patients describe the sensation as a quick snap or warm pulse. Modern cooling systems significantly reduce discomfort during treatment.
The most effective laser depends on skin tone and hair characteristics. For lighter skin with dark hair, the Alexandrite laser is highly effective. For darker skin tones, the Nd:YAG laser is considered safest and most effective because it bypasses surface pigment and targets the hair follicle. Both technologies are FDA-cleared.
The most effective laser for your hair depends on your skin type, hair color, and treatment goals. During consultation at Ringpfeil Advanced Dermatology, we evaluate these factors and select the optimal laser system, such as Alexandrite, Nd:YAG, or other technologies, to help maximize results and safety. Personalized treatment planning delivers superior outcomes compared to a one-size-fits-all approach.
