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Permanent Hair Reduction

Mark Testa, DO

Family Physician & Aesthetics located in Philadelphia, PA

Smooth, hair-free skin is possible without regular wax appointments or daily shaving. At the offices of board-certified family medicine physician Mark Testa, DO, in Marlton, New Jersey, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, you can take advantage of laser hair removal that leads to permanent hair reduction. No more waxing, shaving, or tweezing – just smooth skin. Call the nearest office or book online to learn how you can get rid of unwanted hair for good.

Permanent Hair Reduction Q & A

How does laser hair removal work?

The Icon® laser system effectively treats unwanted hair by directing energy to the pigment in hair follicles. The laser energy penetrates the outer layer of skin, doing no harm.

The hair follicles absorb the energy, heating up so much that they’re rendered unable to produce more hair. You get smooth, clear skin as a result.

What areas are commonly treated with laser hair removal?

Because the Icon system features multiple handpieces, it can treat just about anywhere on your body where you have unwanted hair. Men and women benefit from hair removal at the:

  • Chest and back
  • Chin and upper lip
  • Legs and arms
  • Underarms
  • Bikini line

Discuss the areas you’d like treated with Dr. Testa.

Does permanent hair removal hurt?

You feel some warmth and prickling as the laser glides against your skin, but most people find the sensation quite tolerable. No anesthetic or numbing cream is usually necessary prior to treatment. The technicians at Dr. Testa’s office do provide you with a cooling gel and ice packs after the session to soothe your skin.

How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?

Most people see a permanent reduction in hair growth after 3-7 sessions. The exact number of appointments you’ll need depends on your skin type, hair density, and the location being treated. Generally, you’ll undergo treatment until hair stops growing.

The reason you need multiple treatments is because hair grows in cycles. A hair follicle is most vulnerable to laser treatment when it’s in a growth phase. Multiple treatments ensure you get every follicle in this stage.

Do I need to schedule downtime following hair removal treatments?

The actual hair removal session is relatively quick, lasting about 30 minutes, depending on the area treated. You can go back to all of your regular activities following treatment, including work, school, and exercise. Side effects are minimal – just slight redness or swelling in treated areas that subsides within a few hours.

Definitely stay out of the sun in the weeks following laser hair removal. The treatment makes your skin extra sensitive to ultraviolet rays. Plus, if you have follow-up treatments scheduled, know that tanned skin is less responsive to the laser technology.

If you’re ready to say goodbye to conventional hair removal strategies, call Mark Testa, DO, or schedule an appointment online today.