Soft, Smooth Skin
Laser Hair Removal
Leesburg | Loudoun | Ashburn | Virginia
Laser hair removal works by targeting hair follicles during their active growth phase. However, not all hairs are in this phase at the same time. Since hair grows in cycles, multiple laser sessions are needed to catch each hair at the right stage for effective removal.
Most people require several sessions spaced a few weeks apart to achieve long-lasting results. Skipping sessions or stopping too early can lead to incomplete results, as some hairs may grow.
Laser hair removal is a revolutionary way to rid yourself of unwanted body or facial hair. With results lasting up to several years, it is an ideal choice for those looking for a permanent solution to the time and hassle of traditional methods like waxing and tweezing.
Laser Hair Removal
- Pricing for laser hair removal varies depending on the area of the body being treated.
- We offer both package pricing and individual treatment options to suit your needs.
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About Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is an effective solution for reducing unwanted hair.
The number of laser hair removal sessions needed varies depending on the treatment area, hair thickness, and individual factors like skin type and hair color.
On average, most patients require 6 to 8 sessions for optimal, long-term results.
Areas with coarse or dense hair may require more treatments, while areas with finer hair may need fewer.
Maintenance sessions may be necessary once or twice a year to maintain smooth results.
- Chin & Upper Lip: These areas often require 6 to 12 sessions, especially for those with thick or hormonal hair growth.
- Cheeks & Sideburns: These areas typically need 6 to 8 sessions, depending on hair density.
- Basic Bikini Line (removes hair outside the underwear line): 6 to 8 sessions.
- Full Bikini or Brazilian (removes most or all hair in the area) – 8 to 10 sessions.
- Lower Legs (Knees to Ankles): Typically require 6 to 8 sessions.
- Full Legs (Thighs to Ankles): Usually need 8 to 10 sessions.
- Back (Full or Upper) – Typically requires 8 to 12 sessions.
- Chest & Stomach – Generally needs 8 to 10 sessions.
Preparing for laser hair removal helps ensure effective treatments and reduce the risk of irritation:
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight for at least 2 weeks before treatment, as tanned or sunburned skin increases the risk of burns and hyperpigmentation.
- Shave Before Your Appointment: Shave the treatment area 24 hours before your session so the laser can target the hair follicle more effectively. Avoid waxing, plucking, or threading, as these remove the root the laser needs to work.
- Skip Skincare Products: On the day of treatment, avoid lotions, deodorants, and perfumes in the treatment area to prevent irritation.
- Stay Hydrated & Moisturized: Well-hydrated skin responds better to laser treatments and heals faster.
While laser hair removal provides long-term reduction, following these tips can help maintain smooth skin for as long as possible:
- Protect Your Skin from the Sun: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to treated areas daily, as sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation and irritation.
- Exfoliate Gently: After treatment, gentle exfoliation helps shed dead hair follicles and promotes smoother skin.
- Avoid Heat & Sweat: For 24 to 48 hours post-treatment, avoid hot showers, saunas, and intense workouts to prevent skin irritation.
- Schedule Maintenance Sessions: While most hair is permanently reduced, annual or bi-annual touch-ups can help keep your skin smooth and hair-free.
By following these preparation and aftercare steps, you can maximize your laser hair removal results and enjoy long-lasting silky skin!
Your skin tone and hair type play a key role in how well laser hair removal works. The laser is most effective when there is a high contrast between hair and skin, meaning dark hair on light skin responds best. Advancements in our laser technology at Aesthetica now allow for more effective treatments on a wider range of skin tones and hair types:
- Darker hair absorbs laser energy well, making treatment more effective.
- Lighter hair (blonde, red, gray, or white) may not respond as well since there is less pigment for the laser to target.
- Darker skin tones require specialized lasers (like Nd:YAG) to safely and effectively target hair while avoiding damage to the surrounding skin.
Our technician will assess your skin and hair type to determine the best laser and number of sessions needed for your specific needs.
Hair typically begins to shed within 5 to 14 days after treatment. This is part of the natural process where the treated hair is expelled from the follicle. Gently exfoliating the skin can help expedite this process.
Itching can occur as part of the healing process. Applying aloe vera gel or a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer can help alleviate the discomfort. Avoid scratching the area to prevent irritation or infection.
Yes, it’s normal to see some hair regrowth between sessions. However, this regrowth will be finer and lighter in color. Continue to shave as needed and avoid other hair removal methods like waxing or plucking.
It’s best to avoid intense physical activity for 24 to 48 hours after your laser treatment. Sweating can irritate the treated skin, leading to discomfort or complications.
Blistering or scabbing is uncommon but can occur if the skin is not properly cared for post-treatment. If this happens, avoid picking at the area and contact your provider for advice on how to treat it.
Visible results vary depending on the individual and the area being treated. Most people start seeing noticeable hair reduction after 2 to 3 sessions, with optimal results achieved after completing the full treatment plan.
Yes, it will affect your tattoos. The laser works by targeting the darker pigment of the hair over the color of the skin. Because of the ink from your tattoo, the laser won’t be able to determine what is hair and could end up damaging your skin instead. Burning and permanent skin damage could occur.
This kind of laser won’t help you remove your tattoo, either. If you still want to have laser hair removal in an area where you have a tattoo, a template could be created to cover the tattoo to protect the skin from the laser.
No, waxing is not recommended after laser hair removal. Waxing removes hair from the root, which can interfere with the effectiveness of the laser treatment. Shaving is the preferred method of hair removal between sessions.
Yes, you can shower after laser hair removal, but it’s important to use lukewarm water and avoid hot showers for at least 24 to 48 hours. Hot water can irritate the treated area, so it’s best to keep the temperature mild and avoid scrubbing the area.
Follow-up laser treatments are typically scheduled 4 to 6 weeks apart, depending on the area being treated and your hair growth cycle. Your provider will give you a specific timeline based on your progress.
It’s generally recommended to wait at least 2 weeks before having microdermabrasion after laser hair removal. This waiting period allows your skin to heal and reduces the risk of irritation or complications.
No, it’s best to avoid sunbathing for at least 2 weeks before and after laser hair removal. Sun exposure can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation and other skin issues. Always use sunscreen if you need to be outside.
Yes, you can have sex after laser hair removal, but it’s important to ensure that the treated area is not irritated or inflamed. Unless you are having the bikini area laser-ed, it is best to avoid having sexual intercourse since the area will be hypersensitive after the procedure. If you experience any discomfort, it might be best to wait until the skin has fully healed.
Laser hair removal is a safe and effective way to achieve smooth, hair-free skin. By understanding the recovery process and following the recommended aftercare, you can maximize your results and enjoy long-lasting benefits. If you have any concerns or questions, always consult with your laser hair removal provider to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
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Dr. Chang believes combining attentive care and minimally invasive techniques is the best avenue for achieving beautiful, natural-looking results. Learn more about Aesthetica’s cosmetic procedures.
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Cosmetic breast surgery includes breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction and breast reconstruction. Other common procedures include nipple and areola reduction.
Body Contouring
Body contouring procedures include abdominoplasty, lower body lift, circumferential body lift, as well as thigh and arm lifts. Some patients need it all especially after weight loss surgery.
Face Surgery
Face surgery includes facial rejuvenation procedures such as face, neck, and forehead lifts or simple nonsurgical procedures such as botox, cosmetic facial fillers, or laser skin treatments. Other procedures include nose jobs or ear reshaping.
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Vaginal health includes treatments for vaginal dryness, laxity, and even urinary incontinence. Common procedures include labiaplasty surgery, as well as Diva Laser Tightening.
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Dr. Phillip Chang is a leading plastic surgeon in Loudoun County who specializes in surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures for the breast, body, face, and skin. He is board certified in plastic surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is the founder of Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center in Leesburg, VA. Dr. Chang is dedicated to providing high-quality service that concentrates on the unique needs and concerns of his patients. He believes combining attentive care and minimally invasive techniques is the best avenue for achieving beautiful, natural-looking results. Dr. Chang is thrilled to be serving the greater northwest area of Washington, D.C. with top cosmetic care that is dependable and trustworthy.
Interested in learning more about Dr. Chang? Click here.
We are based in Leesburg, VA. Located as part of the Lansdowne medical complex, you have access to our 24-7 state-of-the-art facility as well as access to Lansdowne hospital. We are based directly across the road from INOVA hospital. There is ample parking, elevators to bring you to our third floor offices, and welcoming staff to sign you in.
We are proud of our surgeries and cosmetic procedures and love that our patients are happy too. They like to shout it out on Google, Yell, Facebook, and right here on our website. Check out our reviews here.
Yes we do!
All potential patients receive either a phone, virtual, or in-consultation for free.
During the consultation we will discuss your treatment wishes and expectations. This is the time to ask us lots of questions to really understand what is involved, what the costs will be, and what is expected of you. This is also a great time to get to know Dr. Chang.
Aesthetica has received numerous awards from the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce, New Beauty, Best of Loudoun, Posh 7 Top Picks, and Dr. Chang is internationally known for his lectures and advances in precise surgical technique as demonstrated through his unique mini-facelift procedure.
We have three execeptionally talents cosmetic nurses:
- Melanie Schwarz, RN, BSN
- Katy Down, RN, BSN
- Angela Westbrook, RN, BSN


