Laser hair removal is very common service you will find in spa settings, skincare clinics, even a dermatologist’s office. With 
so many options, you will oftentimes see online specials or packages for laser hair removal treatments. But just because something is on sale, that doesn’t mean they provide a quality service or even have much experience. So how do you know if you have found an experienced specialist to receive treatment from and why does that really matter?
To remove hair from your body permanently, a specialist will train a highly concentrated light (a laser beam) onto each of your hair follicles. The pigment in your hair follicles will absorb the light and that destroys the hair. It sounds fairly simple and it is one of the most common cosmetic procedures done in the US, but there can be risks if the technician is not trained properly. Although the appearance of a temporary “sunburned” look is completely normal, a poorly trained technician (or specialist) may burn your skin bad enough that it scars. Not only that, but if they did not receive adequate training, they may not completely destroy each hair and the hair will eventually grow back. These are one of the supporting reasons for ensuring that the location and specialist you choose to have your hair removal completed at is overseen by a medically-trained provider such as a Dermatologist. In medical practices (including a dermatologist’s office), they are also bound by stricter regulations on their equipment and even in their training. This will ensure that you receive the highest level of service possible, compared to a clinic that has only been opened for a short time and does provide any type of medical care.
After verifying that the location you are considering having your treatment at is overseen by a medically-trained provider, you will also want to find out what type of laser they are using. Most likely you will not have any knowledge as to which laser is best, but you can search for reviews online from others who have received laser hair removal treatment using that specific laser. This will help guide you into deciding if the specialist you have chosen is a good match for you.
You may also want to search online for reviews of the specific practice/location you are considering scheduling an appointment at. Thanks to review sites like Real Self, Yelp, and even Facebook, you can usually read about others’ first-hand experiences with the specialist you will be scheduling an appointment with.
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about medical, cosmetic, mohs, and surgical dermatology. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed dermatologist or other health care worker.