Gone are the days of razors, waxing, and even electrolysis. For most men and women, there’s now a better way to remove unwanted hair: laser hair removal.
At Worcester Dermatology Associates, laser hair removal offers a long-term solution. Our advanced laser technology targets unwanted hair at the root, reducing regrowth and leaving the skin smoother, softer, and irritation-free. With every treatment, you move one step closer to hassle-free, hair-free confidence.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light (laser energy) to target and damage hair follicles.
The pigment (melanin) in each hair absorbs the light, which generates heat and disrupts the follicle’s ability to grow hair. Over a series of treatments, this leads to permanent hair reduction in the treated area.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
The light produced during laser hair removal targets the pigment in the lower portion of the hair unit. When this pigment absorbs the energy in the light, heat is generated within the hair. This heat can injure or destroy the hair without harming surrounding tissue.
At any given time, all hairs on the body are in either a growing or resting phase. The average percentage of hairs in these two phases varies among the different areas on the skin. It is important to note that hairs vulnerable to the laser are those in the growing phase. This is why several treatment sessions are generally required.
What Areas Can Be Treated with Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal can target unwanted hair on nearly every part of the body, including the face, underarms, bikini area, legs, arms, back, chest, abdomen, neck, and even the feet. Whether you want to reduce irritation, simplify your grooming routine, or enjoy long-lasting smoothness, our team customizes each treatment plan to fit your skin type, hair color, and goals.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Long-Lasting Hair Reduction
Laser hair removal can significantly reduce hair growth, with many people experiencing long-term smoothness after completing a full treatment series. Over time, regrowth becomes finer, lighter, and sparser, if it returns at all.
Precision Targeting
The laser precisely targets dark, coarse hairs without damaging surrounding skin. This makes it especially effective for sensitive areas, such as the upper lip, bikini line, or underarms.
Fast and Efficient Treatment
Each laser pulse takes a fraction of a second and can treat multiple hairs simultaneously. Small areas like the upper lip can be treated in minutes, while larger areas like the legs or back take less than an hour.
Minimal Discomfort
Modern laser systems often incorporate cooling mechanisms or permit the use of topical anesthetics, making treatments more comfortable than those involving waxing or electrolysis.
No More Ingrown Hairs
Laser hair removal helps prevent the inflammation and bumps caused by ingrown hairs. It’s an excellent solution for people prone to razor burn, folliculitis, or post-wax breakouts.
Saves Time and Money
While the upfront cost is higher than shaving or waxing, laser hair removal eliminates the need for frequent hair removal routines. This saves money on razors, wax kits, and salon appointments in the long run.
Why Choose Laser Hair Removal?
Waxing and shaving are time consuming, uncomfortable, and generally ineffective. During electrolysis, one hair at a time is treated, requiring more and longer treatments. However, during laser hair removal, multiple hairs within the laser’s treatment field (9mm) are treated with each pulse. Multiple pulses can be delivered within seconds. Thus, the advantages of laser hair removal over electrolysis are the speed of the session and the significantly lower number of sessions required. The primary disadvantage of laser hair removal is the inability to remove lighter hairs.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Laser hair removal is considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure when performed by trained professionals. Most patients experience only mild, temporary side effects such as redness, swelling, or warmth (similar to a mild sunburn) in the treated area. These typically resolve within a few hours to a day.
We utilize advanced laser systems calibrated to your specific skin type and hair color, minimizing risks such as burns or pigmentation changes. Our board-certified dermatologists oversee all treatments to ensure the highest standards of safety, effectiveness, and skin protection at every visit.
What to Expect for Laser Hair Removal
Before Laser Hair Removal Treatment
There are several ways that you can ensure the best possible results from the best laser hair removal near me.
- Avoid the sun 4 to 6 weeks before and after treatment.
- Avoid bleaching, plucking or waxing hair for 6 weeks prior to treatment.
- The morning of the procedure, the hair should be shaved so that the dark hairs on the surface will not absorb the laser’s energy and cause a superficial burn.
During Treatment
During laser hair removal, people may feel varying degrees of discomfort; this is because of the local heat generated by the laser. However, the laser also has a cooling device which dramatically reduces these effects for the majority of patients. Topical anesthetic can be used in certain locations to further reduce discomfort.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss the number of treatments you will need, as well as the interval between treatments. It is very important to treat the hairs at the recommended intervals so the maximum results are achieved.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
Laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction, with most patients seeing a 70–90% decrease in hair growth after completing a whole series of treatments. Any regrowth that does occur tends to be finer, lighter, and much easier to manage.
While results are long-lasting, some individuals may require occasional maintenance sessions, especially in areas affected by hormonal changes.
The duration of results can also depend on the treatment area. Zones like the underarms, bikini line, and lower legs often respond best and require fewer touch-ups over time. With proper treatment intervals and consistent care, many patients enjoy smooth, low-maintenance skin for years.
Is Laser Hair Removal for You?
The ideal candidate for this procedure is someone with dark hair and light skin. This is because blonde and gray hairs are not seen by the laser. Also, the more pigment in the skin, the more the laser’s energy is transferred to the skin, instead of the hair.
If you decide to pursue laser hair removal, be absolutely certain to choose the right provider. At Worcester Dermatology Associates, we’re skilled and experienced in laser hair removal so, by choosing our practice, you’re taking the most important step to avoid complications and to ensure the best laser hair removal near me results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Hair Removal
How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?
Most patients require six to eight sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve optimal results. The exact number depends on your hair type, skin tone, and the treatment area.
Can laser hair removal be done on darker skin tones?
Yes. Newer laser technologies, such as Nd:YAG lasers, are specifically designed to safely treat darker skin tones without damaging surrounding tissue. Our providers will select the right device for your skin type.
Will the hair grow back?
Laser hair removal provides long-term reduction, but occasional maintenance treatments may be necessary over time. Hormonal changes or genetic factors can cause limited regrowth in certain areas.
Is there any downtime after treatment?
There’s no downtime required. Most patients return to work or daily activities immediately after a session. Mild redness or swelling may occur but usually subsides within a few hours.
Can I shave between sessions?
Yes, shaving is allowed and encouraged between sessions. However, avoid waxing, plucking, or bleaching, as these methods disrupt the hair follicle and reduce the effectiveness of laser treatments.
What should I avoid after treatment?
Avoid sun exposure, hot baths, intense workouts, and harsh skin products for at least 24–48 hours. Follow any specific post-care instructions provided by your provider.
Why Choose Worcester Dermatology Associates for Laser Hair Removal?
At Worcester Dermatology Associates and Chelmsford Dermatology, laser hair removal treatments are performed under the supervision of board-certified dermatologists with decades of experience in medical and cosmetic laser procedures. Dr. Seth Kates and Dr. A. David Simkin bring over 50 years of combined expertise in treating skin of all types safely and effectively using advanced laser technology.
With fully equipped offices in Worcester and Chelmsford, we provide patients with a convenient and professional setting for permanent hair reduction. Our team utilizes medical-grade laser systems calibrated to your skin tone, hair type, and treatment area, ensuring optimal results while minimizing discomfort and risk.
Whether you’re treating unwanted hair on the face, legs, bikini area, or back, your sessions will be performed with the highest standards of dermatologic care. We prioritize your comfort, safety, and satisfaction at every step.
Experience Expert Laser Hair Removal in Worcester and Chelmsford
At Worcester Dermatology Associates, we are proud to offer advanced, science-backed treatments that deliver real, lasting results. We are committed to offering leading-edge, advanced treatment options to the men and women who choose our practice in Worcester. Laser hair removal is just one of the ways we’ve harnessed the power of new technology to improve outcomes.
We’ll take the time to explain all of your options and what each treatment can do for you. Request a cosmetic consultation online or call us at 508-744-3055 in Worcester or 978-705-6511 in Chelmsford.
