Q-switched Nd:YAG laser hair removal

The laser is directed at pigment in the hair and follicle, creating heat that can reduce growth over time. It works best when the clinician can match the wavelength and settings to your hair and skin. Hair may shed after treatment, while regrowth can become finer or less dense; maintenance may be needed. It does not treat the underlying cause of unwanted hair. Excess facial or body hair can have hormonal or medication-related causes, so a medical assessment may be useful, particularly when growth is new or rapidly changing.

Tell the clinician about tanning, medicines, active rashes, cold sores, keloid scarring, and previous laser reactions. Avoid plucking or waxing before a session if instructed, because the follicle is the target; trimming or shaving may be preferred. Arrive with the area free of irritating products. After treatment, use gentle skin care, avoid friction and heat for the advised period, and protect exposed areas from sunlight. Do not treat an inflamed lump or draining area without medical advice.

Contact the clinic for severe or increasing pain, blistering, crusting, spreading redness, pus, or swelling that does not settle as expected. Seek assessment for persistent ingrown hairs, tender nodules, or draining tunnels, since these can need treatment beyond hair reduction. Urgent help is needed for breathing difficulty or rapidly developing facial swelling.

Is Nd:YAG suitable for my skin and hair characteristics? Should my new hair growth be medically assessed? What should I do between sessions? How will you protect areas with ingrown hairs or active inflammation?