Unwanted hair can be frustrating, especially when it leads to frequent shaving, waxing, irritation, razor bumps, or ingrown hairs.

At Botta Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, we use the Cutera Xeo 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser for long-term reduction of unwanted hair on many areas of the face and body.

The 1064 nm wavelength is designed to target pigment within the hair follicle while allowing treatment to be adjusted according to the individual’s skin and hair characteristics.

Cutera’s XEO platform is indicated for permanent hair reduction and can be used across a wide range of skin types.

How Does Laser Hair Reduction Work?

Hair contains a pigment called melanin.

The laser delivers light energy that is absorbed by the pigment within the hair follicle. That light is converted into heat, which damages the follicle and reduces its ability to produce future hair.

The surrounding skin is not the target of the treatment.

Because the laser relies on pigment in the hair, darker and coarser hairs generally respond more predictably than very light-colored hair. White, gray, very light blonde, and red hairs may respond poorly because they contain little or different pigment for the laser to target.

What Areas Can Be Treated?

Depending on the individual, laser hair reduction may be considered for areas such as:

• Upper lip
• Chin
• Face
• Neck
• Underarms
• Arms
• Chest
• Back
• Bikini area
• Legs
• Other appropriate areas of unwanted hair

During your consultation, we will evaluate the area, the color and thickness of the hair, your skin type, and other factors that may affect treatment.

Why Is a Series of Treatments Needed?

Hair does not all grow at the same time.

At any given moment, some hairs are actively growing while others are resting or transitioning between growth phases.

Laser treatment is most effective when the hair is in the appropriate active growth phase, which is why a single treatment cannot target every follicle.

For this reason, laser hair reduction is generally planned as a series of treatments spaced over time.

The number of treatments needed varies depending on factors such as:

• Treatment area
• Hair color and thickness
• Skin type
• Hair-growth cycle
• Hormonal influences
• Individual response to treatment

Some clients may also need occasional maintenance treatments over time.

What Does Treatment Feel Like?

Most clients describe each laser pulse as a brief sensation of heat or a quick snap against the skin.

The Cutera XEO incorporates cooling technology designed to help protect the skin and improve comfort during treatment.

Treatment time depends on the size of the area being treated.

Small areas can be treated relatively quickly, while larger areas such as the legs or back require more time.

What Happens After Treatment?

Temporary redness, mild swelling around the hair follicles, or a warm sensation may occur following treatment.

These effects are generally short-lived.

The treated hairs do not necessarily disappear immediately. Over the following days and weeks, treated hairs may gradually shed.

As the treatment series progresses, hair generally becomes less dense, finer, and slower to return.

Sun Exposure Matters

Your recent sun exposure and tanning history are important considerations before laser treatment.

Tanning changes the amount of pigment present in the skin and may increase the risk of unwanted effects from laser treatment.

We will review sun exposure, tanning, medications, and other relevant factors before treatment and provide instructions about how to prepare your skin.

Sun protection is also important after treatment.

Hormones Can Affect Hair Growth

Laser treatment reduces the hair that is present, but it does not treat an underlying hormonal reason for excess hair growth.

Hormonal changes or conditions can cause new hair to develop over time, particularly on areas such as the face.

For this reason, results and maintenance needs can vary considerably from one person to another.

Is Laser Hair Reduction Right for You?

Not everyone with unwanted hair is an ideal candidate for laser treatment.

During your initial consultation, we will evaluate:

• The area you would like treated
• Your skin type
• Hair color and thickness
• Recent sun exposure or tanning
• Relevant medications and health history
• Previous hair-removal methods
• Your goals and expectations

We will explain what laser treatment can realistically accomplish and whether the Cutera XEO is appropriate for you.

You Don't Need to Know Before You Come In

If you are tired of shaving, waxing, dealing with irritation, or simply want to reduce unwanted hair, you do not need to know whether laser treatment is right for you before scheduling your consultation.

Show us what is bothering you.

We will evaluate the area, explain what you can reasonably expect, and recommend a treatment plan based on your skin and hair rather than a generic laser protocol.

Interested in Laser Hair Reduction?

Start with a personalized aesthetic consultation. We will evaluate the area you would like treated and help determine whether laser hair reduction is an appropriate option for you.