Laser hair removal: New Yorkers are in love with it. With no time to spare, New Yorkers find that laser hair removal is a quick and efficient way to clear their faces, backs, legs, armpits and bikini lines of that unwanted hair. The latest machines allow specialists to remove hair from virtually any part of the body, as long as it is fully grown hair and not just peach fuzz. After six months of treatment, you can expect that somewhere between 60 to 95 percent of the treated hair will be gone.

Where can I find a New York laser hair removal clinic?

Ask your friends and relatives who have undergone laser hair removal treatment for recommendations-they will be able to give you first-hand knowledge of the New York laser hair removal clinics that you are considering. For listings, you can check citydex, a guide of Manhattan, or the yellow pages.

Does laser hair removal work for everybody?

Laser hair removal works best for people who have light-colored skin and dark hair. The latest lasers work with almost all skin types, but generally speaking, people with darker skin and light-colored hair (white, grey or red) are not good candidates for laser.

If laser hair removal does not work for you, there are many other techniques you can explore, such as waxing, sugaring or electrolysis.

How does it work?

Hair grows from follicles, which are located underneath the skin. Follicles are dark in color because they contain melanin-the protein that gives color to our hair. Laser generates heat as it goes through the skin and it is attracted by the darker color of melanin. The laser rays generate enough heat to kill the follicles and prevent new hair from growing while not damaging the surrounding skin.

Our hair grows in cycles, which means that only some hairs are growing at any given time while others are dormant. Laser hair removal techniques can only target active hair, so you usually need several sessions a few months apart to target all the hair in a particular area.

A New York laser hair removal research company, Paradigm Laser, was among the pioneers in researching how laser could be used to remove hair.

What about laser hair removal costs?

The American Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery estimates that the average session costs $388. Laser hair removal prices vary according to the area that you want treated. For example, the price of treating your upper lip is significantly lower than treating your legs or your back. Generally speaking, you can expect laser hair removal costs to range somewhere between $200 and $600, depending on the area you are treating and your clinic.

Even though laser hair removal prices can be steep, you should keep in mind that laser techniques are much more comfortable than the alternatives of electrolysis or waxing and that the results will last for years.

How can I prepare for my session?

Laser hair removal and the New York summer sun are not good partners, so avoid tanning. Tanned skin increases the chances of skin discoloration. Also, avoid waxing or plucking the area to be treated. Instead, shave the area two to three days before your appointment and allow some stubble to grow back. Some doctors might recommend that you apply a cream with lidocaine-a mild anesthetic-an hour before the session begins.

Is it safe?

Laser hair removal is a safe technique. After each session you might experience some redness and mild swelling, but this should quickly go away. It is recommended that you avoid the sun and strenuous exercise for a few days after the treatment. In some rare cases, patients might experience pain and blisters. In extreme cases, permanent scarring or skin discoloration can occur.

Jim Stacey is an editor at the Laser Hair Removal Directory where you can find more information and listings of New York laser hair removal providers.