How Effective is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal delivers long-lasting, mostly permanent results. Between a 10% to 15% cumulative reduction in hair growth can be seen after each treatment. At Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery & MedSpa, we use the Clarity ™ II laser by Lutronic. This advanced laser features adjustable wavelengths for each specific skin type and hair color to effectively destroy the hair follicle while minimizing the risk of discoloration or skin damage.

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How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser hair removal uses a powerful laser beam of light that harmlessly passes through the skin and is then attracted and absorbed by pigment in hair bulbs that are in their active growth phase.

As the light energy is absorbed, there is sufficient heating to damage the hair bulb and prevent future hair growth.

Multiple laser hair removal treatments are necessary because the treatment is only effective for the hairs that are in the active growth phase. It is estimated that 85% of the hairs are not in the active growth phase at any given time.

Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

The thickness of your hair, how much hair you have, and your skin type will factor into how permanent your results are. Generally, repeated laser hair removal treatments result in 90% to 95% hair loss.

Key Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

  • Convenience of not having to shave or wax
  • No more irritation or razor burn
  • Lasers provide perfect precision
  • Minimal discomfort
  • Long-lasting results

What Does Laser Hair Removal Feel Like?

While the handpiece is chilled to minimize any discomfort during the procedure, some patients may experience brief, intermittent “pinching” sensations as the laser energy destroys unwanted hair. Many patients compare the feeling to a hot rubber band being snapped on their skin or a tiny pinprick.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Because hair grows in cycles, most patients need about six treatments (scheduled 4 to 8 weeks apart) for optimal results. At least 10% to 15% reduction in hair growth can be expected with each treatment.

Patient Testimonials

It is without saying that Dr. Holcomb's staff is par excellence. You are greeted with respect and professionalism. Personally of utmost importance was to trust my face to a Doct...

I am 2 1/2 weeks post op and could not be happier!! From consultation to post op appointments the staff and Dr. Kreithen have been amazing. Staff is always available to speak to...

I have had an astounding experience with Dr.Kreithen! From the beginning, he was very knowledgeable and informative. Throughout the entire process, they were easily available to...

Dr. Kreithen gave me an arm lift in June. I am so pleased with the results. The surgery went well and was almost pain free. The office staff is wonderful and caring. I highly re...

Dr. Kreithen and everyone on his staff was amazing throughout my entire process. I had a lower body lift and LOVE the results. I did have some minor issues being allergic to med...

Dr. Kreithen had a great bedside manner. He is great at what he does. My BA was beautifully done and his team was awesome.

Dr Kreithen did a fantastic job on my breasts. I am an older woman that had implants from 10 years ago. It was embarrassing for me at my current age to request new ones. I'm so ...

Dr Kreithen spotted something from a prior MRI done in 2017 & 2019. He basically has saved my life. Having had breast implants for 32 years and suffering fibromyalgia for th...

Dr. Holcomb is a gifted surgeon who will make you look your best. I've had 3 procedures and am delighted with all 3. I especially have to commend his staff... Lauren and Leslie ...

Doctor Kreithen and his staff are the absolute BEST. Caring, friendly, efficient, and my surgery outcome is the best. After surgery I had ZERO pain, recovery was easy, follow up...

If I could give a 10 star rating i sure would. I had both Dr Kreithan and Dr Holcolm did procedures on me in march. Dr Kreithen LISTENED TO my husband and me and HEARD us. This ...

They say breast reduction patients are among the happiest of plastic surgery patients. I am very happy with my decision to go with Holcomb Plastic Surgery. I am pleased with the...

My daughter who had her breast done by Dr. Kreithen told me to go to him for the type of surgeries I was wanting to have done. He did a beautiful job with her breast implants. I...

Had BA in 12/2017 and decided on Dr Kreithen. I had been planning on BA for 7-8yrs , had a couple of consultations with others , but just did not feel 100% about the surgeons I ...

I found all the staff very professional, kind, and helpful which is a big plus . I have no negative feedback which is why I give 5+ stars

Dr. Holcomb is an incredible rhinoplasty surgeon. I'm at about 9 months post op, so pretty much all of the swelling is gone, and I could not be more happy. I'm sure most people ...

I have only had positive experiences within this office, having utilized all the different services that they offer. Dr. Kreithen is a very skilled and caring surgeon. I first s...

Dr. Holcomb is the only one I let do my Botox. I have a short forehead, which can be difficult to do with an untrained provider. The entire office is professional and polite. Wo...

Truly the most professional and skilled plastic surgery practice in the area! Truly everything you would ever want in a doctor. I had a tummy tuck with Dr. Kreithen and LOVE my ...

I recently had eyelid surgery and laser treatment under my eyes done by Dr. Holcomb. Dr. Holcomb is very professional and friendly. He always asked if there were any questions o...

Dr Kreithen has been doing my Botox for about five years, I would never ever consider going to see another doctor. He is masterful at what he does! Always uses only a limited am...

I had a breast reduction completed by Dr. Kreithen, in January. Before surgery I stopped drinking heavily on coffee. I cut back to drinking 1/2 cup to a cup of coffee a day for ...

Dr Holcomb is an excellent surgeon I had a facelift and laser skin resurfacing. I feel 10 years younger and am very pleased with the result

Dr Kreithen gets my best recommendation for anyone looking for a talented plastic surgeon. Very happy with the results of my procedure. He knows what he is doing and I am a happ...

My experience with Dr. Kreithen was amazing. I originally made two consultation appointments with different doctors to shop around but after my first appointment with Holcomb &a...

Dr. Kreithen is amazing. I saw him for Botox and he did a great job. He is an artist with the needles so I felt no pain. I had no bruising and all my wrinkles were blurred away....

Dr. Holcomb and his staff are the best. I had a very positive experience and I'm thrilled with the results of my procedures.

Dr Kreithen did an amazing job on my tummy tuck! I absolutely love the results. The office is clean and beautiful, all the staff have been so kind and respectful, and follow up ...

I am so thrilled with the results. it helps with The helium plasma laser procedure took away years of smoking and sun, damage, The staff and everybody in the office went beyond ...

After contemplating breast augmentation for years, I couldn't be more happier with my decision to choose the best Doctor in the Sarasota area, Dr. Kreithen. My new gals are perf...

Dr. Kreithen is an incredible surgeon and the staff that work along side him are just as incredible. I went to him to see if he could fix some awful scars on my breasts from a p...

My original breast augmentation was performed by Dr. Kreithen approximate 12 years ago. I wanted to increase my size and also get the newest implants. I am beyond happy with my ...

I would highly recommend Dr. Kreithen to anyone who is considering cosmetic surgery he is very knowledgeable and takes the time to listen to your concerns I had a great experien...

Dr Holcomb is AWESOME! I was very afraid to have anything done to my face, but, Dr Holcomb not only reassured me, his results are amazing!! I couldn't be more pleased and I woul...

Dr. Kreithen is the BEST! I had a Panniculectomy because I lost over 300lbs and am so impressed with the surgery. Dr. Kreithen always answers all of my questions and always make...

I can't say enough about my experience with Dr. Kreithen. Him himself all the office staff were absolutely amazing! Everyone was very thorough with explaining my procedures. Any...

I went in for a consultation to see what my options were for reducing the fat under my chin. I did not want anything injected, and I did not want to go under the knife. Kimberly...

Kim Daily performed both Ultherapy and Halo laser treatment for me last month. At age 45, I was looking for something other than fillers to freshen up my look. Kim Daily took th...

After an abundant amount of research & asking around, a friend referred me to this facility to find out more about a procedure. The staff made me feel at home, and made sure...

I have only had positive experiences within this office, having utilized all the different services that they offer. Dr. Kreithen is a very skilled and caring surgeon. I first s...

This was my second surgical procedure with this office & again I want to say thank you to the entire staff especially the front desk, the nurses & of course Dr. Holcomb....

I had a lower face/neck lift with a full face CO2 laser and I couldn’t be happier with the results!  I look like myself only more refreshed and younger!   The of...

I recently underwent a facelift at Holcomb & Kreithen Plastic Surgery and MedSpa, and I couldn't be happier with the results and overall experience. The professionalism and ...

I went in, feeling pretty discouraged. I can say that, from the beginning of my experience, through the surgery, and the end of my experience, which is now has been almost 6 mon...

Fortunately, I have had the pleasure to have procedures done by both Dr. Kreithen and Dr. Holcomb.  Their office staff and nurses are considerate and caring.  They sho...

I had a breast implant  replacement done by Dr  Kreithen.  I did my research on all the Sarasota Plastic surgeons and Dr Holcomb and Dr Kreithen and their clinic ...

I had procedures done by both holcomb and kreithen. I cant sing their praises enough. The office staff and nurses are incredibly kind and helpful. The doctors are amazing. I was...

The entire staff at this place went above and beyond for the entire process! I had abdominoplasty with hernia and abdominal wall repair and I was a nervous wreck at first; but t...

Dr. Kreithen is the BEST! I had a Panniculectomy because I lost over 300lbs and am so impressed with the surgery. Dr. Kreithen always answers all of my questions and always make...

Laser Advantage Hair Removal

Before Your Appointment

  • Avoid sun exposure for three days.
  • For six weeks before your appointment, do not tweeze or wax any hair in the area that will be treated.
  • Shave the targeted areas immediately before the laser hair removal session using a clean new razor.

During Your Appointment

  • You may need to get undressed, depending on the area you’re having treated.
  • You will be given protective eyewear.
  • Your skin will be cleansed with wipes.
  • Any stray hairs in the area will be shaved.
  • The laser treatment will begin, and your specialist will ensure that you’re doing fine.
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Our Office

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Recovery

Patients may experience temporary redness (similar to a sunburn) in the treated areas. This can last from 24 to 48 hours. If your skin feels hot, we recommend using aloe vera.

For best results and most effective healing, avoid:

  • Sun exposure (for a week after treatment)
  • Other cosmetic skin treatments (for two weeks after treatment)
  • Puncturing the skin
  • Hot water (for at least 24 to 48 hours after treatment)
  • Anything that will cause you to sweat (for 24 hours after treatment)
  • Plucking, tweezing, or waxing out any hairs that you see
  • Makeup or perfume near the treated area (for 48 hours after treatment)

Laser Hair RemovalFrequently Asked Questions

Is laser hair removal safe?

Laser hair removal is a non-surgical, non-invasive treatment for removing unwanted hair from any area of the body. When performed improperly, laser hair removal can lead to poor results, burns, and in some cases, even scarring. However, all of this can be avoided with an experienced professional. At HK Plastic Surgery, we employ highly trained physician assistants to perform laser hair removal to ensure patient safety.

Are there any side effects with laser hair removal?

Side effects are usually mild. After treatment, your skin may appear red (similar to a sunburn), but this will subside within 24 to 48 hours. Other side effects are.

What are alternative solutions to laser hair removal?

Depilatories, waxing, and shaving are the most common home remedies for unwanted hair removal. These methods are common, but must be repeated constantly. Electrolysis is effective, but it is tedious and uncomfortable, with one hair being removed at a time.

How long does a laser hair removal treatment take?

Each pulse of the laser takes a fraction of a second, and can treat multiple hairs at once. The length of your treatment time will depend on the area you’re having lasered. For example, the upper lip can take less than one minute, but the legs or back may take one hour.

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Candidates for Laser Hair Removal

If you’re considering laser hair removal in Sarasota or Tampa, it may be the perfect procedure for you. The best candidates for laser hair removal are women and men in good health with the desire to reduce or eliminate hair growth from the face, legs, back, arms, chest, and other areas.

Our Clarity II laser can achieve results for patients who have not had luck with other lasers. If you’ve previously been told that you are not an ideal candidate for laser hair removal, or you’ve tried other treatments with little to no results, we encourage you talk to us about Clarity.

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Laser Hair Removal in Sarasota and Tampa from Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery & MedSpa

Dr. Holcomb and Dr. Kreithen, both medical specialists, merged their two separate practices in 2014 to establish Holcomb - Kreithen Plastic Surgery & MedSpa, an in-depth medical spa offering the most advanced non-invasive lasers and procedures, including laser hair removal. Cosmetic laser treatments are one of our main services, and we provide the most advanced lasers in the area. We offer an extremely sophisticated, comprehensive practice with a very competent and compassionate team. If you’re in the Sarasota and Tampa area and you’re interested in laser hair removal, please contact us to schedule a consultation.

J. David Holcomb, MD Face, Nose & Laser Surgery


J. David Holcomb, MD is a double board-certified Facial Plastic and Cosmetic Laser Surgeon (American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, American Board of Otolaryngology) who has practiced in Sarasota since 2000. His expertise includes advanced procedures such as rhinoplasty and laser resurfacing, and he has participated in groundbreaking clinical research trials (principal investigator in several helium plasma dermal resurfacing studies and BLESS II Letybo neurotoxin non-inferiority study).

Meet Dr. Holcomb
Dr. J David Holcomb

Joshua C. Kreithen, MD Breast & Body Surgery


Joshua C. Kreithen, MD is an Aesthetic Breast & Contouring Body Specialist who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Kreithen has practiced in Sarasota, Florida since 2004.

Meet Dr. Kreithen
Dr. Joshua C. Kreithen

Marc J. Salzman, MD Face, Breast & Body Surgery


Marc J. Salzman, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in face and body procedures. A recognized educator and innovator, he's known for advancing techniques and contributing to FDA studies on breast implants.

Meet Dr. Salzman
Dr. Marc Salzman
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