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Understanding Unwanted Hair

Unwanted hair is a common concern that affects people of all ages and genders. Whether it appears as unwanted facial hair, body hair, or fine hair in places you’d rather not see it, excessive or stubborn hair growth can be frustrating to manage. It can interfere with personal grooming routines, lead to skin irritation from frequent shaving or waxing, and affect self-confidence in social or professional settings. Consistent removal can also interrupt routines, quickly becoming a hassle for individuals with busy lifestyles.

Potential Causes

  • Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in sex hormones can trigger unwanted hair growth on the upper lip, lower abdomen, and a woman’s face.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common hormonal disorder that can cause excessive hair growth due to elevated androgen levels.
  • Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: A genetic condition affecting the adrenal glands that disrupts hormone levels, often resulting in developing hirsutism and increased hair growth.
  • Medications: Certain drugs, such as birth control pills, steroids, or hormone treatments, may lead to unwanted hair as a side effect.
  • Weight changes: Losing weight or rapid weight gain can disrupt hormone balance, contributing to unwanted hair in some individuals.
  • Genetics and skin type: A family history of excess hair or natural differences in hair follicles, hair color, and skin may make some people more prone to unwanted hair growth.

Who is Affected by Unwanted Hair?

Unwanted hair affects real people of any gender, ethnicity, or age. Those with dark hair and light skin typically respond best to laser hair removal, though technology like Diolaze makes it possible to treat a wide range of hair, including light colored hair and even red hair, depending on the treatment area and skin type.

Hair Removal Methods

We offer safe, effective, and long-lasting hair removal solutions designed to address unwanted hair at the literal root:

Diolaze

Diolaze is a cutting-edge laser designed to remove unwanted hair by targeting the hair follicles beneath the skin’s surface using safe, focused energy. This powerful laser effectively slows or stops hair growth, helping to permanently remove hair over the course of several sessions.

The process is generally safe, though minor pain, temporary redness, or skin reaction at the treatment area can occur. Over time, treated areas experience significantly less hair growth, and many patients enjoy permanent hair removal after completing a series of treatments.

Where to Get Started

Your aesthetic journey begins when you schedule a personalized consultation at Thrive Wellness and Aesthetics. We’ll review your medical history, skin type, hormone levels, and concerns to determine the best treatment options for your unwanted hair. Our team is committed to helping you achieve smoother skin, renewed confidence, and fewer hours spent battling excess hair at home.

How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?

Most patients require several sessions spaced a few weeks apart for best results. The exact number depends on how thick your hair grows, the hair growth cycle, the treatment area, and skin/hair type.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, but it is not considered completely permanent; most people experience months or years without significant regrowth, but occasional maintenance treatments are usually needed, and any regrowth is typically finer and lighter.

What causes unwanted hair growth?

Unwanted hair growth is typically caused by hormonal imbalances—especially elevated male hormones (androgens)—genetics, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

How can I remove unwanted hair growth?

You can remove unwanted hair by shaving, waxing, plucking, using depilatory creams, or opting for longer-lasting methods like laser hair removal and electrolysis. The best method depends on your preferences, skin sensitivity, and desired results.

Can unwanted hair be removed from any part of the body?

Yes, unwanted hair can be removed from almost any part of the body using methods like shaving, waxing, threading, laser hair removal, and electrolysis. Some methods are better suited for specific areas, such as threading for the face and waxing for larger areas.

Are there risks to hair removal methods?

Yes, all hair removal methods carry some risks, such as skin irritation, redness, ingrown hairs, allergic reactions, burns, or infection, depending on the technique used. Serious side effects are rare but can include scarring, pigment changes, or burns, especially if procedures are done improperly or by untrained providers.

Can unwanted hair be prevented?

Unwanted hair can’t always be prevented, but managing hormonal imbalances and using treatments can slow regrowth. Permanent removal is possible with methods like electrolysis or laser hair removal.

Can unwanted hair be a sign of a serious medical condition?

Yes, unwanted hair can indicate serious conditions like PCOS or hormonal disorders, especially if it appears suddenly or with symptoms like irregular periods or voice changes. Consult a healthcare provider if you notice these signs.

Can lifestyle changes help reduce unwanted hair?

Yes, lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight and managing underlying conditions can help reduce unwanted hair by balancing hormone levels. However, these changes may not eliminate hair growth entirely.

What areas can be treated with laser hair removal?

We can treat nearly any treatment area, including facial hair, upper lip, lower abdomen, arms, legs, and bikini line. Laser technology can safely address both dark hair and some light colored hair, depending on your skin tone.

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Founder, Nurse Practitioner at  |  + posts

Dana Protomastro, AGPCNP-BC, is a certified primary care nurse practitioner who is a proven leader in the medical community. She has over 25 years of experience delivering exceptional care with a holistic approach in perioperative care, plastic surgery, and aesthetic medicine.

Dana has introduced cutting-edge, non-invasive technologies into her practice as wellness-based alternatives to surgical procedures. She works closely with men and women of all ages to determine the best treatment method for their individual needs. Some of her specialties include laser treatments, micro needling, Botox, fillers and the integration of skincare products.