How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser and intense light-based hair removal or reduction is dependent on the concept of selective thermolysis. In selective thermolysis, the light energy of a particular wavelength range is used to selectively damage the hair follicle, while not harming the skin or its pigment. Any laser or light-based device used in hair removal targets the melanin (dark) pigment in the hair. As such, white hairs cannot be effectively treated. We use the latest Palomar Icon™ Aesthetic System. This is one of the best systems available, with high peak powers, a state-of-the-art cooling system, built-in precise energy calibration, and the Skintel™ reader – the only FDA-cleared skin melanin reader. Each one of these features ensures efficient and successful treatments: Features of The Palomar Icon™ used in our office deliver better results and more safely than typical lasers due to a number of advanced features:

  • Power: Delivering a maximum effective energy of over 350 joules, the Palomar Icon is the most powerful laser and optimized light aesthetic platform.
  • Advanced Contact CoolingSM: Cooling maintains temperature at a cold 5 degrees Celsius (about 40 degrees Fahrenheit) during treatments for enhanced comfort and skin protection. Adjustable cooling technology keeps epidermal temperature lower to reduce treatment discomfort and maximize skin safety.
  • Calibration: New external calibration for optimal performance.
  • AccuSpectrumSM: Dual filters minimize unnecessary epidermal exposure, enhancing patient comfort.
  • Photon RecyclingSM: Maximizes treatment results by reducing energy loss within the treatment area.
  • Smooth PulseSM: A proprietary light delivery system that allows for the use of greater amounts of energy.
  • The Skintel™ Melanin Reader™: An advanced device that provides an additional element of treatment confidence by determining the melanin density of skin, in a quantitative manner, prior to treatment. Ensuring safe and customized settings for each patient.
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Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

Men and women who are tired of shaving, plucking, and waxing can achieve smoother skin with laser hair removal. Additionally, this method can save patients considerable time, discomfort, and money over the course of their lifetimes by eliminating the need for razors, waxing, and other services.

Laser hair removal can be used in men and women alike to reduce hair in all body parts. Here are some popular areas for laser hair removal:

  • Face and neck
  • Back
  • Bikini areas
  • Arms
  • Legs
  • Abdomen
  • Chest/ nipples

The Laser Hair Removal Procedure

On average, each laser hair removal treatment takes anywhere from 5 to 60 minutes to complete depending on the area treated. During your treatment, the laser/light energy targets the melanin pigment naturally found in each hair follicle. Once absorbed, the laser energy damages the hair follicle, often preventing any future hair growth.

A cooling device built into our device cools the skin diminish and alleviate any discomfort. During each treatment session, the hair follicles that are in the active growth phase will be affected; however, the follicles that are in the dormant stage will not. As a result, several sessions will be necessary to maximize benefits.

Results can vary due to multiple factors like: how hairy the patient is, hormonal factors, location of the hair, color of the hair, and other factors. Patients are advised to shave or trim very closely the treatment areas one day before, so that treatment area easier to treat for the nurse. A slight stubble is ideal as it allows for the nurse to view the treatment area.

Our Client Testimonials

Highly recommended!! Dr. Vartanian And his staff go above and beyond to make sure you have received the best service possible. I have had a few pro...

Highly recommended!! Dr. Vartanian And his staff go above and beyond to make sure you have received the best service possible. I have had a few procedures done and couldn’t be happier with the results.

I can breathe! I’ve had sinus issues for years and I just had septoplasty by Dr. Vartanian and I am completely satisfied. Absolutely love the...

I can breathe! I’ve had sinus issues for years and I just had septoplasty by Dr. Vartanian and I am completely satisfied. Absolutely love the staff. They actually make visits enjoyable.

Being a man’s man and realizing age has done a number on me, I went to Dr. Vartanian for a consult, his entire office was friendly and made m...

Being a man’s man and realizing age has done a number on me, I went to Dr. Vartanian for a consult, his entire office was friendly and made me feel so comfortable I am not embarassed to go there. Dr. Vartanian and I have such an open relationship that I can confide in him with all my flaws! He does such a great work, and the best of all if he feels that something you request won’t look good he will tell you as is, other doctors will just do it for the money, but not Dr. Vartanian. Wish all doctors were like him!! Highly recommend!!! and I don’t write reviews at all btw!

Another great experience here. This time filler and botox. Dr Vartanian is an artist. Now my third or 4th time here and the results are nothing sho...

Another great experience here. This time filler and botox. Dr Vartanian is an artist. Now my third or 4th time here and the results are nothing short of stellar. Really does his magic in improving your appearance in natural way. Oh btw staff is very friendly and accommodating as well, offering drinks, etc.

Dr. Vartanian and his lovely staff are the best! I had a rhinoplasty done about 3 years ago and it couldnt have gone any better. from the consultat...

Dr. Vartanian and his lovely staff are the best! I had a rhinoplasty done about 3 years ago and it couldnt have gone any better. from the consultation to the procedure, everything went smoothly and perfectly.. no complications whatsoever! My nose looks fantastic, and more importantly, NATURAL! If you want to have beautiful and affordable work done on you, this is the doctor for you. i feel so lucky to have chosen such an amazing and talented doctor. I’d definitely go to him to get more work done

Set up an appointment to see the Dr regarding my nose. The staff was so kind as soon as I walked in. They took me in,and made me feel comfortable i...

Set up an appointment to see the Dr regarding my nose. The staff was so kind as soon as I walked in. They took me in,and made me feel comfortable immediately. The doctor then took his time with me, and made me feel confident in what I wanted to do. He really took his time explaining the process and what to expect. I had my surgery in Sept and could not feel more pleased. The staff, and doctor at Dr Vartanians office are great, and I have referred many friends to go see him as well. Highly recommend Dr Vartanian for all your needs.

Dr. Vartanian has a wonderful bedside manner. He is always so nice and has a twinkle in his eye. I do not like operations. And I’m afraid of ...

Dr. Vartanian has a wonderful bedside manner. He is always so nice and has a twinkle in his eye. I do not like operations. And I’m afraid of anesthesia. But the procedure went so smoothly. I don’t even remember being put under. I just woke up and Dr. Vartanian was there squeezing my hand and telling me the surgery went well. It doesn’t hurt that he is cute too.

This office is a real hidden gem in Glendale. Dr. John Vartanian is a true artist and brings his considerable experience to help 30-something gals ...

This office is a real hidden gem in Glendale. Dr. John Vartanian is a true artist and brings his considerable experience to help 30-something gals like me look 20-something. You see, he has was an FDA investigator for Juvederm and other fillers and has an amazing touch and artistic eye with injections. Anyhow, he recommended cheek and under eye Restylane and Juvederm and in about 30 minutes I was transformed back to 2003 – in a good way. Prices were very reasonable too considering the Dr. himself injects (not a nurse), really takes his time, and he is board certified.

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Recovery From Laser Hair Removal

Some redness and irritation in the treated area is normal. These effects should subside within a few hours. You can generally expect to return to your normal activities on the day of your procedure. For the next two weeks, you may notice the treated hair falling from the skin. During this time, you may still see hair stuck in the skin; however, natural skin turnover will gradually allow the hair to fall out. Dr. Vartanian typically recommends that you keep your treated area covered with an article of clothing or high-SPF sunscreen in the days following your procedure. He also advises refraining from waxing, banding, or plucking in between treatments. Shaving is allowed since the hair root is left in the skin for effective future laser treatments.

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Frequently Asked Questions Laser Hair Removal

Length of Time for Procedure?

A laser hair removal procedure generally takes about 5-60 minutes. Multiple treatments are necessary for the most effective results.

Who Performs this Procedure?

All laser hair removal procedures are performed by trained nurses who have been trained by Dr Vartanian and certified by the device manufacturers for each particular laser or light-based device.

What about Recovery?

There is typically no downtime associated with this procedure, although treatment areas should be protected by clothing or sunscreen in the days following laser hair removal.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions can vary depending on amount of hair, location of the hair, hormonal influences, and the patient’s ability to grow more hair. For most areas at least four to five sessions will be necessary for permanent hair reduction.

What about Results?

Laser hair removal can safely and effectively eliminate undesired hair. Results can be long-lasting and, in many cases, even permanent.

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Contact Dr. Vartanian

To learn more about our laser hair removal techniques, or to find out if you are a good candidate for laser hair removal, please contact Dr. Vartanian’s office to schedule a consultation.

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