Dr. Matthew Beal, MD

Physician
Dermatology
Specialty

Dermatologic Surgery

Pima Dermatology
5150 E Glenn Street
Tucson, Arizona 85712 [MAP]
For an appointment , call (520) 795-7729 , email info@pimaderm.com
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Laser Hair Removal Treatment at Pima Dermatology

Treatment

At Pima Dermatology we currently have two distinct Lasers for hair removal; the GentleMAX (GentleLASE) and GentleYAG. At the time of your consultation we will discuss the best Laser for your hair and skin type and provide with reasonable expectations for treatment.

  • The GentleMAX (GentleLASE) has the best combination of selective absorption and deeper penetration for fair-skinned patients with dark hair target. 
  • The GentleYAG Lasers are the safest for some dark skinned or tanned patients.

Hair Removal Candidates 

Individuals with course dark hair, and light skin color respond most optimally.

Light energy is absorbed by the pigment melanin, which then is transformed into heat energy to disable the follicle. In those people with darker skin color (more melanin in the skin), the skin tends to compete with the hair for the light energy resulting in the potential for damage to the skin, not the hair follicle.  The competition for the light energy between skin and hair melanin is why tanning should be avoided before and after Laser treatments. The GentleMAX (GentleLASE) can be used in people with fine hairs and fair skin types whereas our infrared devise such as the GentleYAG can effectively treat darker or tanned skin colors. At any given give time not all hairs are in an active growth phase, Lasers are effective at disabling hairs that are actively growing. It therefore is necessary to treat an area again at a later time to disable those hairs that were in a resting phase during initial treatment.

Optimal treatment requires multiple sessions at 4-8 week intervals.

Post Treatment 

Sun exposure or tanning should be avoided. This can be accomplished by the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen 30+. The treated areas should be handled gently, avoiding the use of abrasive cleansers or topical acne preparations. Ice compresses can be used to minimize swelling, and if blistering occurs, a topical antibiotic such as Bactroban, a prescription antibiotic available in a cream or ointment, can be applied. Most patients experience no noticeable after-effects following hair removal.