Hair Removal | Epical HealthMed
Medically reviewed by Dr. Carlos A. Ramirez, MD, MBA, FAAFP, BCEM, IFM-C, FMCP-M (Epical HealthMed)
Permanent hair removal using laser technology is one of the safest, most effective, and most requested aesthetic treatments available. Unlike shaving or waxing—which produce temporary results and ongoing skin trauma—laser hair removal targets hair follicles at the root to produce long-lasting reduction. At Epical HealthMed in Mission, TX, we treat all skin types and most hair types, with precision-matched laser settings that protect your skin while maximising follicle clearance in the treated area.
How laser hair removal works
Laser hair removal is based on selective photothermolysis: laser energy at a specific wavelength is selectively absorbed by melanin (pigment) in the hair shaft and transported to the dermal papilla—the growth centre at the follicle base. The focused heat thermally destroys the papilla, permanently disabling hair production in that follicle.
Only follicles in the anagen (active growth) phase are susceptible to treatment. At any time, only 20-30% of follicles are in anagen, which is why multiple sessions are required to treat all follicles as they cycle through.
Pre-treatment preparation
- Shave the treatment area 24 hours before appointment—do NOT wax, thread, or epilate
- Avoid sun exposure and tanning for 4 weeks before treatment
- Discontinue any photosensitising medications (tetracyclines, retinoids on treated area) as directed
- Arrive with clean, product-free skin in the treatment area
- Inform your clinician of any recent sun exposure, as this increases burn risk
Pre-treatment preparation
Proper preparation ensures safety and maximises results:
During and after treatment
During and after treatment
- During: protective eyewear provided. Integrated cooling and cold air minimise discomfort. Sensation is often described as a warm snap
- Immediately after: the skin may appear pink and slightly swollen—like mild sunburn. This resolves within 2-24 hours
- Days 5-14: treated hairs "shed" out of the skin—this is the destroyed follicle clearing, not regrowth. A gentle exfoliating cloth helps clear them
- Aftercare: no sun, heat (sauna, hot tub), deodorant (for underarms), or tight clothing for 24-48 hours. SPF on any exposed treated areas
What to expect at Epical HealthMed
What to expect at Epical HealthMed
- Skin and hair type assessment: Fitzpatrick skin typing, hair colour and coarseness evaluation to select the right laser and settings
- Patch test: 48-hour test before beginning the series to confirm your skin’s response
- Personalised session schedule: tailored to each area’s hair cycle and density
- Progress review after the series: to assess results and plan any touch-up sessions
Hormonal hair and managing regrowth
Hormonal conditions—particularly PCOS and elevated androgens—drive continuous activation of new follicles, making it challenging to achieve permanent results without also addressing the hormonal driver. If you have persistent facial or body hair growth alongside menstrual irregularities, acne, or weight changes, a hormonal evaluation alongside laser treatment is the most effective combined approach.
Educational content only. This page does not replace individualized medical advice. Always consult your clinician for diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Treatment areas and expected results
Local care + telehealth: Epical HealthMed supports patients in Mission, Texas and surrounding communities, with telehealth options when clinically appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser hair removal permanent?
Laser produces long-lasting significant hair reduction—not always 100% permanent for every follicle. Most patients achieve 80-95% permanent reduction after a full series and find any residual sparse hair easily managed with an occasional touch-up.
What skin tones can be treated safely?
All skin tones can be treated. Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) require Nd:YAG laser or carefully calibrated diode settings with longer pulse durations. We perform a patch test for all darker skin tones before beginning.
Can I get laser if I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
Yes. Laser is highly effective for PCOS-related hair growth. However, ongoing androgen excess may stimulate new follicles over time. Combining laser with medical management of PCOS (spironolactone, metformin, lifestyle changes) produces the most lasting results.
Does laser hurt more than waxing?
Most patients find laser more tolerable than waxing. Laser produces brief snapping sensations; waxing involves sustained pulling. Areas vary—underarms and bikini are most sensitive for both. Integrated laser cooling significantly reduces discomfort compared to older systems.
How long until I see results?
After each session, treated hairs shed within 1-2 weeks. By session 3-4, most patients notice 50-60% reduction. After the full series, 80-90%+ reduction is typical in well-responding areas.
Can laser treat facial hair in women?
Absolutely. Lip, chin, cheeks, and sideburns are very common and responsive treatment areas for women. For persistent hormonal facial hair, we evaluate androgens and thyroid function alongside laser treatment for the best outcome.
What about grey, blonde, or red hair?
Laser targets melanin. Very light, grey, or red hair lacks sufficient melanin to absorb laser energy effectively—these hair colours show limited or no response to laser. Electrolysis is the only method that can target individual pigment-free follicles.
Can I use laser while pregnant?
Laser hair removal is generally avoided during pregnancy as a precautionary measure, due to hormonal changes affecting hair growth patterns and the lack of safety data. We recommend completing your family before beginning a laser series.