Laser Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal in Long Island, NY with Dr. Meredith Vandegrift

Unwanted hair can be bothersome and uncomfortable. However, traditional hair removal processes, such as tweezing, waxing, or shaving, can be ineffective and unproductive. Laser hair removal provides a better solution to removing unwanted hair to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.

Achieving excellent results from your laser hair removal procedure requires first choosing a knowledgeable, compassionate, and experienced provider. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Meredith Vandegrift can help you discover how laser hair removal may provide the solution to achieving your aesthetic goals.

Continue reading to learn more about Long Island laser hair removal, or contact us online to schedule your consultation with Vandegrift Plastic Surgery today.

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal treatments are non-invasive procedures that use highly specialized lasers to target the hair follicles. The pigment in the hair follicles absorbs the light, effectively destroying the hair at the root.

Laser hair removal only treats hair in the active growth phase, so a series of treatments spaced four to six weeks apart is required until hair growth stops. Many patients experience permanent or semi-permanent hair removal; most require annual follow-up treatments after desired results are achieved.

Laser hair removal typically works best for patients who have light skin and coarse, dark hair. It is effective for treating many places on the body, including:

  • Face and chin
  • Legs
  • Arms
  • Back
  • Bikini line
  • Underarms

Laser hair removal causes the skin to become exceptionally sensitive to UV rays. To avoid temporary skin color changes, patients should avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds for six weeks after laser hair removal.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal treatments are ideal for patients who are looking to reduce or eliminate unwanted hair without the hassles of traditional methods. As each laser pulse can target multiple hairs without causing damage to the surrounding skin, it takes mere minutes to treat small areas.

Following laser hair removal treatments, most patients experience:

  • Smoother skin
  • Fewer ingrown hairs
  • Less skin irritation
  • Permanent or semi-permanent hair loss

Patients may notice a difference in two to three weeks after the first laser hair removal treatment. Hair may grow back less prominent and finer. As laser hair removal targets hair in the growth phase, a series of treatments to achieve optimal results is required to treat hair follicles in various growth stages.

Am I an Ideal Candidate for a Laser Hair Removal?

With minimal downtime, laser hair removal procedures are typically well-tolerated and safe for most patients. Candidates for laser hair removal include patients seeking long-lasting hair removal. Laser hair removal typically works better on dark coarse hair, so patients with light-colored or fine hair may not be ideal candidates.  

Generally, good candidates for laser hair removal treatments should:

  • Be generally healthy
  • Not be pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Not smoke or be willing to quit
  • Have realistic expectations and a positive outlook
  • Be prepared to follow pre- and post-procedure instructions closely

Meet Dr. Meredith Vandegrift

Dr. Meredith Vandegrift is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in breast and body rejuvenation that restores a youthful, supple appearance after pregnancy or weight loss.

While offering a full complement of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures including breast lift, tummy tuck, vaginal rejuvenation, and oncoplastic breast reduction, Dr. Vandegrift also has a special interest and expertise in both invasive and non-invasive facial rejuvenation. With a focus on keeping your look natural, she provides a holistic approach to each patient, specifically tailoring a treatment regimen that will leave you looking and feeling your absolute best.

Choosing Dr. Vandegrift as Your Laser Hair Removal Provider

Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Meredith Vandegrift specializes in breast and body rejuvenation procedures and also offers a full complement of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. With a particular interest and expertise in both invasive and non-invasive treatments, Dr. Vandegrift continually follows the latest trends and offers effective services in skincare, making her one of your best options for laser hair removal in Long Island, NY.

With a focus on keeping your appearance naturally beautiful, Dr. Vandegrift offers a comprehensive approach to each patient, specifically tailoring each treatment to leave you looking and feeling your absolute best. Dr. Vandegrift will take the time to ensure you fully understand your treatment so that you know what to expect throughout the laser hair removal process.

What Can I Expect During a Laser Hair Removal Treatment?

Dr. Vandegrift aims to achieve optimal results for each patient, so she customizes all Long Island laser hair removal treatments. However, here are some general steps you can expect.

Prior to Your Procedure

You must avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least six weeks before your laser hair removal procedure. Avoid artificial tanning products for at least three to four weeks. Be sure to exfoliate your skin to remove any product residue.

Shave the treatment area 24 hours prior to the procedure and keep it free from makeup, deodorants, lotions, and sunscreen.

Methods of hair removal other than shaving, like tweezing, waxing, or electrolysis—which temporarily remove hair by the root—should be avoided for at least six weeks before your treatment.

Check-in

Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our team. We will make sure you are comfortable and answer any last questions. Before beginning your laser hair removal procedure, your skin may be treated with a topical anesthetic to numb your skin and reduce discomfort.

Laser Hair Removal Procedure

Before your laser hair removal treatment, your hair will be trimmed. You will also receive dark glasses for appropriate eye protection. The laser will be adjusted to treat your skin and hair color, thickness, and treatment location.

Some discomfort is to be expected, like that of a rubber band snap on the skin. However, most patients tolerate the treatment well.

Laser Hair Removal Aftercare

Following your laser hair removal, you may experience discomfort that can be treated with ice packs, cold water, or anti-inflammatory treatments. For one to three days after treatment, your skin may look red and swollen, like a sunburn. Uncommon side effects may include blisters, prolonged redness, and swelling in patients with dark complexions.

The treated areas will experience hair loss over the next month. During this period, be sure to wear sunscreen to prevent any skin color changes.

Typically, laser hair removal has no downtime, and most hair removal patients can resume normal activities following treatment. However, avoid strenuous physical activity, including exercise, for at least seven days, as overheating and sweating may irritate the skin. Avoid wearing making for at least 24 hours if the treated area includes your face.

How Soon Will I See My Long Island Laser Hair Removal Results?

Following laser hair removal treatments, most patients see immediate results. Individual results will vary depending on the color and thickness of hair, skin color, and the treatment area. Typically, patients experience a significant reduction in hair in the treatment area following the first laser hair removal treatment.

Hair growth cycles vary, and laser hair removal only treats hair in the growth phase. As such, patients will see hair regrowth and require multiple treatments spaced four to six weeks apart to achieve optimal results. Following a series of treatments, many patients will not experience hair growth for months or even years.

Schedule Your Laser Hair Removal Consultation Today!

Enjoy smoother, hair-free skin without the hassle of traditional hair removal methods with long-lasting results from laser hair removal treatments. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Vandegrift is dedicated to every step of your journey to smooth, healthy skin—schedule your consultation at Vandegrift Plastic Surgery today.  

Get ready for smoother skin when you partner with one of New York’s best laser hair removal providers. Contact us today or call (631) 935-0303 to learn more!

FAQ

Laser Hair Removal

As each series of laser hair removal treatments is customized for individual patients, the cost of laser hair removal is determined by your unique needs, aesthetic goals, and treatment areas. Following your consultation with Dr. Vandegrift, you will receive a breakdown of the cost of your laser hair removal treatment.

Laser hair removal is effective and offers long-lasting results. Some patients will receive permanent or near-permanent results, while other laser hair removal patients may receive results that last for months and even years; most patients require annual touch-ups. Each patient will experience varied results, however.

Laser hair removal can cause discomfort, like that of a rubber band snap on the skin. However, treatment becomes tolerable over time. Your skin may be treated with a topical anesthetic prior to your treatment. Be sure to discuss your pain concerns with Dr. Vandegrift during your laser hair removal consultation.