Safe. Precise. Lasting.
Say goodbye to constant shaving and waxing with advanced laser hair removal at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology. Using the Excel V laser, our team targets hair follicles to safely and effectively reduce growth, delivering smoother skin with long-lasting results. Treatments are quick, require little downtime, and can be customized for nearly any area of the face or body—all under the care of experienced providers in a dermatologist-supervised setting.
What Is Laser Hair Removal And How Does It Work?
Laser hair removal uses targeted, Gentlelase Alexandrite laser energy to disable hair follicles, reducing unwanted hair growth long-term. Excel V balances efficacy and comfort for a wide range of skin tones and hair types, and treatments are performed by certified providers in a clinical setting.
How it works:
- During the treatment, pulses of laser light are delivered to the skin; the pigment in the hair shaft absorbs the energy.
- That energy heats and damages the hair follicle, inhibiting future growth.
- Hair grows in cycles, so multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are required to target hairs during their active growth phase.
GentleLase® 755nm Alexandrite Laser
The GentleLase 755nm Alexandrite laser offers fast, effective hair removal for lighter skin types. Using a precise wavelength of light energy, it targets and disables hair follicles while preserving the surrounding skin. With its built-in cooling technology for added comfort, GentleLase delivers smooth, long-lasting results with minimal downtime.
Excel® V Laser
The Excel V laser is a versatile, medical-grade system designed to safely and effectively target unwanted hair—including for patients with skin of color. By delivering precise energy to the hair follicle, it minimizes future growth with minimal discomfort or downtime. Excel V offers a trusted, refined solution for achieving smoother skin and longer-lasting laser hair removal results.
Typical Treatment Areas
Treatment Overview
Consultation
Medical history review, skin/hair assessment, and treatment plan.
Patch Test
Small test spot may be performed to confirm settings and tolerance.
Treatment
Area is cleaned, protective eye shields are applied, and laser is delivered. Most sessions last 5–60 minutes depending on area size. Cooling and topical numbing are available when appropriate.
Recovery
Mild swelling or bruising may occur for up to four days following treatment. With minimal downtime, most patients can return to their normal activities right away—just be sure to follow gentle skincare guidelines.
Why choose Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology?
FAQ's for Laser Hair Removal
Does it hurt?
Does it hurt?
Most patients describe a quick stinging or snapping sensation. We use cooling and offer topical numbing for added comfort.
How long until I see results?
How long until I see results?
You’ll notice some hair shedding within days to weeks after a session, with progressive reduction across treatments.
Is it permanent?
Is it permanent?
Laser reduces hair growth long-term, and many patients achieve permanent reduction. Some maintenance may be needed.
How many treatments will I need?
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients require 3–8 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart (face) or 6–12 weeks apart (body), depending on area and hair growth cycle.
Maintenance sessions may be recommended every 6–12 months for some patients.
How should I prepare for my treatment?
How should I prepare for my treatment?
Before treatment
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 2–4 weeks.
- Stop waxing, plucking, or electrolysis in the treated area for 4–6 weeks; shaving is allowed.
- Avoid retinoids and certain topical medications as advised by your provider.
What should I do after my treatment?
What should I do after my treatment?
After treatment
- Expect temporary redness or mild swelling for 1–48 hours.
- Use gentle cleansers, cool compresses, and sunscreen (SPF 30+) on treated areas.
- Avoid hot tubs, saunas, and strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours or as advised.
- Do not wax or pluck between sessions — shaving is OK.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Are there any risks or side effects?
Laser hair removal is generally well tolerated. Possible temporary effects include:
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness
- Pigment changes (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation), more common with recent tanning or in certain skin types
- Blistering or scabbing (rare with proper care)
- Our team will review risks specific to your skin and medical history and explain how we minimize them.
Smooth, touchable skin is just a treatment away.
Schedule your laser hair removal session today and say goodbye to shaving and waxing for good.