For many women, excessive or unsightly facial hair growth in areas like the sideburns can be embarrassing and difficult to manage.
At Ethos Aesthetics & Wellness, we often have patients ask about using laser hair removal to reduce sideburn hair. Below we’ll look at the safety and efficacy of laser for sideburns.
What Causes Excessive Sideburn Hair Growth in Women?
Many women naturally have fine vellus hairs along the sideburn area and rest of the face. But others contend with thicker, darker terminal hairs growing as actual sideburns. Causes include:
- Genetics – Some hereditary conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia can trigger facial hair growth.
- Hormonal changes – Puberty, perimenopause, and hormonal imbalances may stimulate hair follicles.
- PCOS – Higher androgen levels associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome often cause increased facial hair including sideburns.
- Ethnic background – Women of certain ethnicities like Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian more commonly grow facial and sideburn hair.
- Medications – Certain drugs used to treat issues like epilepsy, hypertension, and arthritis may contribute to extra hair growth as a side effect.
While genetics play a key role, the most common trigger for excessive sideburn hair is elevated androgens or male hormones. Laser hair removal can help reduce unwanted hair from these and other causes when performed properly.
Is Laser Hair Removal Effective for Treating Sideburns?
Yes, laser hair removal is an effective long-term method for reducing sideburn hair growth when performed by an experienced cosmetic dermatology practice like Ethos Aesthetics & Wellness. Benefits of laser hair removal for sideburns include:
- Allows women to go longer between hair removal sessions – Unlike daily shaving or weekly waxing, laser hair removal provides progressive results, with less and less hair regenerating over a series of treatments.
- More complete hair removal – Laser energy can disable hair follicles deeper under the skin to inhibit regrowth better than temporary surface removal with shaving and plucking.
- Elimination of thick terminal hairs – Laser selectively targets the pigment in coarse terminal hairs, leaving finer vellus hairs intact.
- Long lasting results – Most patients enjoy months to years of hair reduction between periodic touch-up sessions. Some experience permanent sideburn hair removal after an initial treatment series.
- Treatment of hormonal hair – Laser can be effective at reducing facial hair growth stemming from hormonal causes like PCOS when settings are properly calibrated.
- Increased confidence – Removing unwanted sideburn hair provides a smooth, feminine look and boosts self-confidence.
With a series of 4-6 treatments, laser hair removal can reduce sideburn hair by 80% or more. However, patients must have realistic expectations; complete permanent removal is not guaranteed. Some maintenance sessions may be needed in the future as hair follicles reawaken.
Is Laser Hair Removal for Sideburns Worth It?
Laser hair removal for sideburns is generally considered worth it for those seeking long-term hair reduction.
While it may have a higher upfront cost compared to methods like waxing, it offers progressive and lasting results, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and providing smooth, stubble-free skin.
What Areas Can Be Treated?
Laser hair removal can safely treat hair growth in and around the sideburn region:
- The sideburn area itself following the natural hairline. Caution is taken around the eyes and ears.
- Extending down the side of the face below the cheekbone if needed.
- Along the jawline and neck area if desired.
- Upper lip and chin if other facial hair growth is present.
Laser Hair Removal vs. Sideburn Waxing
When comparing laser hair removal to sideburn waxing, laser hair removal offers a more long-term solution.
While waxing provides immediate results, it requires frequent maintenance and may lead to skin irritation, whereas laser hair removal gradually reduces sideburn hair over several sessions, with longer-lasting outcomes and minimal discomfort.
Can laser target thick dark sideburn hairs?
Yes, laser is highly effective at removing coarse terminal hairs while preserving finer vellus hairs along the sideburns.
Does laser hair removal hurt more on the face?
No, numbing creams allow facial hair removal to be tolerated well. Side effects are usually minimal.
The beard area on men is generally avoided for safety reasons. However Dr. Soni may recommend a thin strip right along the side hairline if women grow full sideburns, sideburn connectors, or temporal tufting.
How is Treatment Performed?
During your consultation Dr. Soni will assess your goals, skin type, hair color, and degree of growth to recommend a customized laser hair removal plan. The procedure takes just 10-15 minutes for the delicate facial area. Steps include:
- Eyes are protected with safety shields.
- A cooling gel is applied to the skin for comfort.
- The laser handpiece glides over the treatment area delivering rapid pulses.
- Three passes are usually made over each section. Pulses feel like a warm rubber band snap.
- Skin may be red and swollen temporarily afterwards.
- Apply a soothing skin cream as recommended and avoid sun exposure.
- Repeat sessions every 4-6 weeks until optimal results are achieved.
- Periodic maintenance may be needed in the future.
With proper laser selection and skilled techniques, most patients find facial hair removal comfortable and effective. Schedule your Ethos Aesthetics & Wellness consultation to learn more.
Am I a Candidate for Sideburn Laser Hair Removal?
The best candidates for safe, effective laser hair removal of sideburns are:
- Women with darker, coarser terminal hair growth along the sideburn area.
- Fitzpatrick skin types I – IV.
- No active infections or lesions. Avoid treatment if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- No light-sensitive medications. Disclose all prescriptions, supplements, and medical history.
- No history of keloid scarring.
- Prepared to protect skin from sun exposure before and after treatments.
The Ethos Aesthetics & Wellness team will review your unique cosmetic goals, medical history, and conduct an exam at your complimentary consultation to advise if laser is right for you.
Remove Unwanted Sideburns Safely and Comfortably
If unsightly sideburn hair growth is bothering you, the laser hair removal experts at Ethos Aesthetics & Wellness can help. We use advanced technology and proper protocols tailored for the delicate facial area to deliver smooth, stubble-free results. Schedule your consultation to get started.
What is the cost of laser hair removal for sideburns?
As a small area, sideburns typically cost about $150-250 per session. Packages of 4-6 sessions provide the best value.
How many laser hair removal treatments are needed for sideburns?
Most patients need 4-6 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart for optimal 80% or better hair reduction.
Can I pluck my sideburn hairs between laser sessions?
No. Plucking and waxing should be avoided in between treatments as it interferes with targeting the follicles.
When will I see results from sideburn laser hair removal?
Some reduction occurs after the first session, with increasing results after each successive treatment.
Is sideburn laser hair removal permanent?
Permanent reduction is possible but periodic maintenance may be needed as dormant follicles later reawaken.
Can laser hair removal help PCOS sideburns?
Yes, laser is effective for hormonal facial hair growth but does not treat the underlying hormone disorder.
Does laser work for blond sideburn hair?
No, laser only works on darker pigmented hair. Blonde, red, and white hair cannot be treated.
Can teenagers have sideburn laser hair removal?
Yes, laser is safe for adolescents once puberty begins as long as there are no underlying hormonal disorders present.
