Manhattan

121 East 60th Street, Suite 8AB, New York, NY 10022

Ph. (212) 285-1110

Long Island

901 Stewart Ave, Suite 240, Garden City, NY 11530

Ph. (516) 512-7616

New York City (212) 285-1110

Garden City, NY (516) 512-7616

Laser Hair Removal in New York

Getting rid of hair—no matter where it is—can be a pain. Whether you’re shaving, waxing, or trimming, you always have to cope with two uncomfortable realities: pain and repetition.  In addition, the process of shaving hair can leave razer bumps and painful in grown hairs.  Men often get ingrown hairs in the neck area after shaving.  Women get ingrown hairs in their bikini area or under arms after shaving.  Waxing and threading has its own set of problems including pain, irritation and wax burns as well as developing darkening of the skin or hyperpigmentation from the constant friction.  Laser hair removal can get rid of unsightly hair in a permanent way eliminating the need for constant shaving, waxing, or threading.

Laser hair removal1 can accomplish this by targeting the root of the hair or the hair follicle, ensuring that the targeted hair can no longer grow.  The process of laser hair removal eliminates hair in a permanent manner by destroying the hair follicles, eliminating the need for waxing, threading or shaving.  It also permanently eliminates painful ingrown hairs and razer bumps on the legs, bikini area as well as the bear or neck area for men. Laser hair removal procedures, available in New York from Dr. Rokhsar, are able to quickly treat a large area all at once with the most advanced lasers.

With our modern laser hair removal systems, most treatments take roughly less than ten minutes to perform.   Usually, 3 to 6 laser treatment sessions are required to achieve long term hair reduction.  The sessions are spaced 4-6 weeks apart depending on your schedule.   After a few laser sessions, you will notice a significant and permanent loss of hair. Because your hair grows in stages, it may take several sessions to completely eliminate all the hair in an area.  The exact number of sessions depends on many factors including the baseline density of the hair, the texture and thickness of the hair, the color of the hair, and the patient’s genetics.   Once having had a few treatment sessions, patients will be able to enjoy their smooth skin permanently! That means no more shaving, threading, waxing, repetition, irritation or painful bumps, all thanks to the laser hair removal procedure2.

Dr. Rokhsar’s New York laser hair removal procedure is among the most effective because he uses the most advanced lasers and settings.  We can also treat all skin colors including black, brown and white skin and all ethnicities including, white, Asian, Hispanic and black skin patients, safely and effectively.  Having multiple laser hair removal system, we are also able to switch between laser systems in those few patients who may develop resistance or tolerance to a particular wavelength or laser system.  We have treated thousands of patients with laser hair removal successfully over the years.

Laser Hair Removal Before and After

BeforeAfter
Laser Hair Removal beforeLaser Hair Removal after

35 year old woman with excessive hair growth due to hormonal imbalances. This is among the toughest hair removal cases that can be tackled. With our powerful laser hair removal systems, we’re able to treat cases requiring technical expertise.* Results May Vary

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Hair grows in cycles. The number of treatments required depends upon your skin, hair color, and coarseness of the hair, baseline hair density, genetics (Italians, Middle Easterners and Indians may require more sessions), as well as any other underlying medical issues including PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) in women. Most people will require at least 3-6 treatments, as the process is only effective on hairs during their growth cycle. Repeated sessions will be necessary to treat these follicles when they re-enter the growth phase.

Hair follicles can be effectively targeted by our advanced lasers, destroying them and removing unwanted hair. Multiple treatments are necessary for optimal results. Hair can be safely and effectively3 treated anywhere on the body, including:

  • Neck
  • Arms
  • Armpits
  • Back
  • Legs
  • Bikini area
  • Brazilian area
  • Beard area in men
  • Face or facial hair in women
  • Chin hair in women
  • Upper lip hair in Women

Am I a Good Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

The best candidates for laser hair removal are fully able to comply with aftercare instructions, are well-educated about the procedure, and have realistic expectations.

Here are some criteria to help you decide if you are a good candidate:

  • Dark hair, light skin, and coarse hair are the easiest to treat. These patients typically see the best results and require fewer treatment sessions.
  • Dark-skinned individuals including Hispanic and black patients can be effectively treated with our advanced lasers for hair removal.
  • People with dark skin require advanced lasers.  With Dr. Rokhsar’s years of expertise, he is able to perform laser hair removal on any skin color.  Dr Rokhsar always recommends a test spot for darker skin individuals.
  • Blond, grey, and red hairs4 are more difficult to treat with lasers.
  • Tanned patients must wait until the tan fades before treatment.
  • The procedure does not necessarily result in a 100 percent reduction of unwanted hair in the first treatment session. Multiple sessions are needed.

Dr. Rokhsar has multiple lasers available for laser hair removal which makes it possible to treat even the toughest cases.

Laser Hair Removal for Ingrown Hairs

Laser hair removal will permanently end the constant cycle of shaving, waxing, tweezing, or using depilatory creams. You can get rid of unwanted, embarrassing body hair or constant ingrown hairs without worrying about removing them again in a few weeks.

A laser sends beams of heat energy into the hair follicle, destroying it. Because hair grows in cycles, the hair follicle must be in a growth phase in order for it to be destroyed. This is the reason that three to six treatment sessions are needed in order to have permanent hair removal5.

In the past, the best candidates having the most noticeable results with laser hair removal were those with light skin and dark hair. This is still somewhat true; however, Dr. Rokhsar has extensive knowledge and involvement in the use of lasers that can treat even Mediterranean or darker skin tones such as black and Hispanic skin types.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rokhsar today to discuss laser hair removal, and end the expensive, endless cycle of dealing with unwanted hair. We employ the most advanced lasers including light sheer diode, GentleYag, GentleLase, and GentleMax depending on the patient’s condition. All skin types can be treated using one of these lasers.

Neck and Back Hair Removal for Males

Hair can grow in thickly on a man’s neck and back, and while men may not necessarily want all of their hair removed, they may want it thinned out. Laser hair removal treatments are typically different for men than they have been for women.

Regardless of location or gender, laser hair removal is a quick, safe and virtually painless way to remove unwanted body hair. The laser light energy penetrates the hair shaft and actually kills the hair root. The actual follicle is not completely destroyed, which allows eventual hair growth but it makes it a more difficult and slower process. This ensures that the results will last for a long time compared to any other treatment available.

A very common complaint in men is ingrown hairs or razor bumps int he neck area. This is more common in men with thick beards, coarse hair and darker skin.  Some men develop significant scarring from the constant irritation from shaving.  Medically this is referred to as pseudofolliculitis barbae.  Laser hair removal can be curative in men suffering from chronic painful razer bumps and pseudofolliculitis barbae.

Many men are also embarrassed by thick rug-like growth of hair on their back.  The process of shaving or waxing the back is time consuming and painful.  For men wanting to decrease or eliminate back hair, Dr. Rokhsar offers advanced lasers for hair removal to get rid of back hair only after a few sessions.

Side-Effects of Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal technology is safe and effective. There is a small chance of experiencing mild side-effects like irritation after the procedure, temporary change in pigment color, and slight redness. Dr. Rokhsar takes the necessary precautions to minimize the chances of side-effects for every patient.  It is very important to avoid the sun and tanning before your laser hair removal sessions and during the course of treatment as tan skin can easily get burnt with lasers.

Get Rid of Neck and Back Hair in NYC

In less than 15-minute laser sessions, most body areas can be hair free or thinned out after only a few laser hair removal sessions. Because men can grow hair almost anywhere on their body, it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Repetitive hair removal costs can end up being a more expensive hassle than simply removing the hair in an in-office treatment session.

Dr. Rokhsar uses the ND:YAG, Alexandrite and Diode lasers for the best laser hair removal results in New York. These laser systema are the most advanced laser hair removal systems in the world.  Thes lasers are proven effective with male hair removal because of their effectiveness to treat thicker hair.   They are also able to thin or light hair as well.  The back of the neck is especially ideal for laser treatments because of how prominent the hair grows and how difficult it is to remove with a razor or waxing. Back of the neck hair growth also usually means that there is hair growth down the back, which, men who have to deal with it know how difficult it is to remove. Laser hair removal is the ultimate choice for this type of hair growth.

Dr. Rokhsar is double board certified in dermatology and dermatologic surgery and fellowship trained in laser surgery.  With years of experience with many laser systems, he has successfully treated thousands of patients successfully in the New York area.  Many of our patients have been people who have had difficulty getting rid of their hair at other doctor offices or medical spas by various laser technicians.

If you want to get rid of back hair in NYC, Dr. Rokhsar is an excellent resource, so schedule a consultation today!

Laser Hair Removal FAQ

Who is a candidate for laser hair removal?

Both men and women alike seek effective hair removal treatments for unwanted hair. Those with unwanted hair under their arms, pubic hair, legs, abdomen, lip, chin, back, buttocks, face, neck, chest, arms, facial area, lip area and toes can benefit greatly from laser hair removal. Laser technology works by targeting pigmented areas in the hair follicle, permanently destroying the hair follicle.  Best candidates are those with light skin and dark coarse hair.  However, with his advanced lasers and techniques Dr. Rokhsar is able to treat hair on any skin color or ethnicity including black, Hispanic, white and Asian skin.

Is laser hair removal painful?

Most patients report very mild discomfort, if any at all. Our lasers are equipped with advanced chilling tips and cooling sprays which cool down the epidermis minimizing the pain from the laser.  Laser hair removal treats areas with pulse technology. Each pulse resembles a feeling much like a rubber band snapping against the skin for a fraction of a second. If the patient does experience slight pain, it is only felt when the laser is in contact with the skin. Most patients do not require an anesthetic cream to decrease any pain sensation, however, patients with sensitive skin can be prescribed a cream.  We also offer prescription grade complementary numbing cream in our office.  Patients are advised to numb for 30-60 minutes prior to the laser hair removal session in our office.

How long does a laser hair removal treatment last?

In order to achieve 100 percent clearance of hair, most people need to have follow-up treatments to remove the finer hairs. Laser hair removal is most effective for coarser hair. Although in many people laser hair removal gives permanent results, in some individuals with stubborn hair lookig for a permanent solution to hair loss,  touch up sessions may be required on an ongoing basis.

How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?

The number of treatments depends on the patient’s individual cosmetic goals, skin and hair color, and coarseness of the hair, genetics, ethnicity, baseline hair density as well as any underlying or metabolic hormonal conditions. Treatments can range from three to six sessions, however for significant hair reduction of 85 to 90 percent can be achieved after four treatments.  In some patients, as many as nine sessions may be necessary.

Which specialists should I go to for laser hair removal?

It is important to have a board-certified dermatologist perform laser hair removal. This is a procedure that requires sufficient skill and experience in order to perform effectively. Dr. Rokhsar is actively involved in the latest research on many different types of lasers and their uses.  Dr. Rokhsar is double board certified in dermatology and dermatologic surgery.  He is also amonga handful of dermatologists in the country who is fellowship trained in laser surgery.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal works by using a concentrated beam of light to target the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle. This light energy is absorbed by the hair follicle, which is then converted into heat, damaging the hair follicles responsible for hair growth. By damaging the hair follicles, the treated hair falls out and the follicle is unable to produce new hair.

Laser hair removal is most effective on dark, coarse hair as it has a higher concentration of melanin. Lighter hair colors, such as blonde or gray, may not absorb enough light energy to damage the hair follicles.

Multiple treatments, typically spaced about a month apart, are required to achieve optimal results since hair grows in cycles and the laser only damages follicles during an active cycle of hair growth. It’s also essential to avoid plucking, waxing, or electrolysis for at least two weeks before treatment to ensure there is enough hair growth for the laser to target. Additionally, it’s important to avoid applying any perfumes, lotions, or other products to the treatment area on the day of the appointment. It is also important not to be tan when you show up for your laser hair removal appointment because this puts you at risk for getting a burn.

How to prepare for laser hair removal?

  • Avoid sun exposure: Protecting your skin from the sun is essential. Sun exposure can increase the risk of side effects such as skin lightening or getting burns from the laser. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when you go outside.
  • Stop waxing, plucking, or electrolysis: These hair removal methods can reduce the effectiveness of laser hair removal. Shaving is acceptable as it only removes hair above the skin’s surface.
  • Limit other hair removal methods: Avoid hair removal creams and depilatories for at least two weeks before your appointment.
  • Cleanse your skin: Use a mild cleanser to cleanse the treatment area before your appointment. Avoid wearing any lotion or cream on the day of your appointment.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol can dehydrate your skin, making the procedure more painful. Caffeine can increase your skin’s sensitivity, making the procedure more uncomfortable.
  • Consult with Dr. Cameron Rokhsar: Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rokhsar, a double-board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, to discuss your medical history and any medications you are taking. Some medications, such as antibiotics or birth control pills, can make your skin more sensitive to the laser.
  • Wear appropriate clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothes that will not rub against the treated area after your appointment. Avoid wearing any tight or restrictive clothing.

How effective is laser hair removal?

The effectiveness of laser hair removal varies depending on the individual’s skin and hair type, as well as the laser device used. Generally, laser hair removal can reduce hair growth permanently by up to 90% after 6-8 treatments. However, laser hair removal is not completely permanent and some maintenance treatments may be necessary. Dr. Rokhsar uses the most advanced lasers for hair removal in our upper east side Manhattan office and Garden City Long Island office. With years of experience in laser surgery, he is the go to laser doctor for many dermatologists and plastic surgeons in the New York area. Dr. Rokhsar also has treated many complications and burns from laser hair removal performed at med spas and laser hair removal clinics.

How much does laser hair removal cost?

The cost of laser hair removal varies based on several factors such as the size of the treatment area, the number of sessions required, the type of laser used, and the location of the clinic. However, this is only an average cost, and the total price can be higher depending on additional expenses such as the cost of numbing cream, aftercare products, and consultation fees.

The total cost of laser hair removal will depend on the number of sessions required for complete hair removal, which can range from three to six sessions, depending on the thickness and density of the hair. Therefore, it’s crucial to have a consultation with a qualified laser surgeon who can evaluate your hair type and give you a better estimate of the total cost.

When can you shave after laser hair removal?

In general, it is best to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after a laser hair removal session before shaving the treated area. This allows the skin to recover from the laser treatment and reduces the risk of irritation or injury to the skin. Shaving immediately after a laser hair removal session can cause skin irritation, redness, or even scarring in some cases.

After the initial waiting period, you can shave the treated area as often as you need to. However, it is essential to use a gentle razor and shaving cream to avoid further irritation to the skin. You should also avoid using any exfoliating scrubs or harsh chemicals on the treated area for at least a week after the laser hair removal session.

New York Office Locations

Upper East Side Manhattan Office
121 East 60th Street, Suite 8AB New York, NY 10022
(212) 285-1110

Long Island Office
901 Stewart Ave, Suite 240, Garden City, NY 11530
(516) 512-7616

Request an Appointment

References

  1. Laser Hair Removal: Reduce Unwanted Hair. Available: https://www.healthline.com/health/laser-hair-removal.
  2. Laser Hair Removal. Available: https://www.webmd.com/beauty/laser-hair-removal.
  3. Laser Hair Removal. Hair Removal Procedure. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/laser-hair-removal/safety.
  4. Red hair. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/medgen/66796.
  5. Hair Removal Options. Available: https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-hair-removal#1.

About author - Dr. Cameron Rokhsar

Dr. Cameron Rokhsar

Dr. Cameron Rokhsar, MD, FAAD, FAACS, is the founder and medical director of the New York Cosmetic, Skin, & Laser Surgery Center. Dr. Rokhsar is a graduate of Harvard College and NYU School of Medicine. Dr. Rokhsar is double board certified in dermatology and micrographic dermatologic surgery, being one of the few select dermatologists in the country who is also fellowship trained in laser surgery. A researcher and innovator, Dr. Rokhsar is the creator of the non-surgical nose job and has been instrumental in the research and development of laser systems such as the Fraxel, CO2, Mirady, Vbeam, Themitight, and Ulthera devices. An Associate Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC, Dr. Rokhsar actively teaches the cosmetic dermatology clinic to the resident at Mount Sinai. An expert injector of fillers, and a trainer for many companies, patients fly in from around the world to see Dr. Rokhsar in his Garden City and Manhattan offices in New York.

Learn more about Dr. Rokhsar | Dr. Rokhsar's Google Scholar