Laser Hair Removal

Unwanted hair can be embarrassing, and getting rid of it can be a frustrating, ongoing battle. More and more women and men are giving up shaving, waxing and tweezing in favor of laser hair removal. In West Des Moines, Iowa, our aesthetic team offers permanent hair reduction technology that is appropriate and effective for people from Ankeny, Ames, and surrounding areas of all skin and hair types.

To learn more about laser hair removal at Koch & Carlisle Plastic Surgery & Spa, please request a consultation or call our office at  (515) 277-5555. Our doctors and aestheticians look forward to meeting you to discuss how you can achieve your cosmetic desires.

About Laser Hair Removal

Hair reduction utilizes light energy to destroy and disable hair follicles, permanently reducing hair growth in the targeted area. It is an effective solution for unwanted hair in areas such as:

• Legs and bikini area
• Underarms
• Chin and cheeks
• Back and shoulders

Laser Hair Removal Procedures

One of our highly skilled aestheticians will first meet with you to evaluate your hair removal needs, taking into consideration your skin and hair type. Newer technology makes permanent hair reduction possible for even those who were not good candidates in the past. If you would like to address spider veins as well, ask your aesthetician about ClearV® laser vein treatments.

After applying a special gel to the area, your aesthetician will guide the handpiece over the treatment area. This device sends specific concentrated beams of light through the skin to be absorbed by the pigment present in the hair follicle shafts. The skin is kept cool and comfortable during the procedure, and only the hair follicle is harmed.

Since hair grows in cycles, only those follicles in the active growth phase are destroyed during treatment. For this reason, a series of treatments is required – typically 4 to 6 – spaced at 4- to 8-week intervals.

Laser Hair Removal Cost

At our West Des Moines practice, pricing for laser hair removal starts at $75 and varies depending on the size of the treated area.

Recovery

Although most patients don’t experience significant side effects, there is sometimes redness, swelling, and discomfort that may last a day or two. Your doctor will advise you to avoid tanning and to use a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen after your treatment.

Most people can expect a 10 to 25% reduction with each treatment, and the hair that does grow back is typically finer and lighter. After completion of your series of hair removal treatments, you may need to return occasionally for a touch up treatment.