Laser Hair Removal - Ask a Surgeon

Laser hair treatment is used on dark hair. The laser targets the pigment in the hair follicle (root) to stop growth. Unfortunately, white hair does not have pigment and thus laser hair removal is not effective. Other non-laser treatments that Dr. Jack mentioned are reasonable as long as you are not a person of color. Electrolysis specifically can cause discoloration in persons of color creating an uneven skin tone. I hope this helps.
Best wishes!

Laser hair removal is likely not the best option for you because such procedures use laser energy that is attracted to the pigment in the hair follicle. If you have lost some pigment, it is unlikely to work on the areas where you have lighter or white hair so you may get results with hair that has pigment but you would likely be left with patches of light/white hair. You may want to consider other non-laser treatments if you really need to get your beard removed, such as electrolysis or waxing. Typically, yes any hair removal treatments are performed every 4-6 weeks when new hair growth is seen. Good luck!

Laser hair removal is long lasting and effective, but usually does require several treatments. Hair type, skin type and medical history of the patient all weigh in on the effectiveness of the treatment.

Relax! Laser and IPL, intense pulsed light therapy for hair reduction really do reduce and or eliminate unwanted hair growth. Just like the reductions of unwanted pigment and vasculature, it does require multiple treatments. In terms of information, there is a lot of date that is published that confirms the efficacy of such therapy. It is mostly "historic" as this information was new back in the '90's. So perhaps this is what you are referring to. In terms of any one patient's perception of success, you are correct. there are differences in an individuals result. This may be based on the person's experience vs. the technology.

Laser Hair Removal works. Multiple treatments may be required. The device is often patient specific ( skin color, etc.). Consider a member of the ASAPS in your area. They are experts at laser hair removal. Best,

Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS

Depending on the size and location, the fees would vary. It's best to contact a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area.