The laser can be used to remove unwanted hair from the upper lip, ears, chin, neck, underarms, legs, bikini line, and most other areas of Asian skin.

The procedure is performed in the office using only a numbing solution for anesthesia. A beam of heated light is selectively absorbed by dark melanin pigment in the area of the hair follicles without damaging the surrounding skin.

Discomfort afterwards is mild, and healing begins within a few days. Multiple sessions are often needed, especially on the face.

As with waxing, depilatory creams, or tweezing, the results are not permanent. Leg and body treatments last up to 4 months, while upper body treatments last about 2-3 months.

The best results are seen in Asian patients with lighter skin and dark coarse hair, while light or thin hair is harder to treat. Those with darker skin or deep tans are not ideal candidates.

Electrolysis is still preferred for those with very fine and light-colored hair and is the only type of hair removal treatment that can yield permanent results. Intense pulsed light can also be used to remove hair.

Complications of laser hair removal are rare and relatively minor, including skin discoloration, blistering, and infection that may require oral or topical medications.