What should you know about JOVS laser hair removal?

Light energy is absorbed by pigment in the hair and converted to heat near the follicle. This can reduce the follicle’s ability to produce a coarse visible hair, but hairs respond at different growth stages, so a course of treatments is usually needed. The device and wavelength matter: alexandrite, diode, and Nd:YAG systems have different absorption and skin-penetration characteristics. A trained provider should select settings for your skin tone, hair colour, body area, and recent sun exposure.

Laser hair removal can help people who want less shaving or fewer ingrown hairs, but it does not diagnose the reason for excess hair. New facial or body hair may relate to [Hirsutism](/conditions/hirsutism/), while recurrent painful lumps need assessment for [Hidradenitis Suppurativa](/conditions/hidradenitis-suppurativa/).

Before treatment, disclose medicines, tanning, pigment changes, scars, and any active rash or infection. Avoid waxing or plucking when the plan depends on the follicle being present; follow the provider’s shaving instructions instead. During treatment, protective eyewear and appropriate cooling may be used. Afterward, expect temporary warmth or redness, protect the area from strong sunlight, and avoid picking or aggressive exfoliation until the skin feels settled.

If shaving causes bumps, ask whether laser treatment is appropriate alongside care for [Razor Bumps](/conditions/pseudofolliculitis-barbae/) or [Ingrown Hairs](/symptoms/ingrown-hairs/).

Contact the treating clinic for blistering, severe pain, marked swelling, spreading redness, pus, or a persistent light or dark patch. Seek urgent help for eye pain or vision changes after facial treatment. A new changing mole, unexplained rash, or painful nodule should be assessed rather than treated over.

Ask which laser or light source is being used, why it suits your skin and hair, how many appointments may be needed, and what skin changes should prompt a review. Ask how to manage an underlying cause of excess hair if growth is new or rapidly changing.