Hello, I’m Dr. Ronaldo Szerman, and today I’ll be addressing one of the most common questions we receive at our clinic:
So, do you get laser hair removal with a dermatologist?
The answer is definitely yes — laser hair removal should be done with a dermatologist. According to the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD), about 65% of Brazilian women have already undergone or are interested in undergoing laser hair removal. The number of men seeking the procedure is also growing at an annual rate of 20%.
Despite its popularity, the SBD warns that over 40% of laser sessions are performed outside medical clinics, increasing the risk of burns, pigmentation, and other skin complications. For this reason, the Society emphasizes that laser hair removal must be performed under dermatological supervision, ensuring proper equipment use and patient safety throughout the treatment.
Studies show that laser hair removal performed by a dermatologist can reduce hair growth by up to 90% after a full treatment cycle, offering safer and more consistent results compared to non-medical providers. Because dermatologists are trained to evaluate skin type, hair color, and possible contraindications, patients experience fewer complications and more predictable outcomes—making professional supervision a key factor in both efficacy and safety.
Before anything else, it’s important to understand the history and science behind laser hair removal to grasp why it’s essential to have the procedure performed by a medical professional.
The Evolution of Hair Removal: From Electrolysis to Laser
Before laser technology arrived for hair removal, there was a method called electrolysis, which worked by applying an electrical current to destroy the hair follicle.
More than 20 years ago, here in Rio de Janeiro, we started working with laser technology, which gradually replaced electrolysis because it proved to be faster, more efficient, and safer.
The Popularization of Laser Hair Removal
When we began performing laser hair removal in our clinic over 22 years ago, only a few doctors offered the procedure. Over time, it became increasingly popular, and professionals from other fields began to perform it as well.
The Importance of Having Laser hair removal with a dermatologist
Today, we’re seeing many procedures that were once performed exclusively by doctors being done by other professionals. However, there is a significant difference in dermatological knowledge when comparing specialists to non-medical practitioners.
When a patient visits a dermatologist, their skin and hair characteristics are evaluated before starting the treatment. The procedure is then tailored to each person’s skin type — a process that is strictly medical in nature.
Temos as melhores avaliações no Google
TM
My treatment was laser hair removal. Because I have dark skin, it required a qualified and compassionate professional (Dr. Ronaldo). The results were noticeable right from the start of the treatment, as the equipment used is of excellent quality; I did a lot of research until I found the right place.
ML
I’m undergoing laser hair removal treatment at this clinic. I had tried it elsewhere before, but without results. I found Drs. Szerman who, in addition to being excellent professionals, explained the entire procedure to me. I’ve had incredible results since the first session.
I’m finishing my second laser hair removal treatment and the result is fantastic! My skin hasn’t had any negative reactions and almost all the hair has disappeared. I will definitely have other areas treated when I finish this one. Thank you to Dr. Szerman and the team!
Temos as melhores avaliações no Google
My treatment was laser hair removal. Because I have dark skin, it required a qualified and compassionate professional (Dr. Ronaldo). The results were noticeable right from the start of the treatment, as the equipment used is of excellent quality; I did a lot of research until I found the right place.
I’m undergoing laser hair removal treatment at this clinic. I had tried it elsewhere before, but without results. I found Drs. Szerman who, in addition to being excellent professionals, explained the entire procedure to me. I’ve had incredible results since the first session.
I’m finishing my second laser hair removal treatment and the result is fantastic! My skin hasn’t had any negative reactions and almost all the hair has disappeared. I will definitely have other areas treated when I finish this one. Thank you to Dr. Szerman and the team!
Laser hair removal was very satisfactory. The equipment is great, it doesn’t hurt much, and the procedure is performed by a dermatologist. Furthermore, there’s excellent immediate post-procedure care.
My name is Sarah Sofia and my experience at Dr. Szerman’s Skin Clinic was wonderful. I had laser hair removal and could see results in the first few sessions; I was very satisfied! I didn’t have any problems. Dr. Ronaldo is super competent and professional. I recommend him to everyone.
My treatment was laser hair removal. Because I have dark skin, it required a qualified and compassionate professional (Dr. Ronaldo). The results were noticeable right from the start of the treatment, as the equipment used is of excellent quality; I did a lot of research until I found the right place.
Technology and Safety
Another key point is that medical-grade laser equipment tends to be more advanced and reliable. Dermatologists rarely compromise on technology or safety.
Laser works through a process called photothermolysis, where the light wavelength is absorbed by the melanin in the hair, converted into heat, and destroys the hair’s growth center. However, since the skin also contains melanin, part of the energy can be absorbed by it, posing a risk of burns.
That’s why medical supervision is crucial — the dermatologist monitors and prepares the skin throughout the sessions, ensuring faster, safer, and more satisfying results.
One of the most trusted technologies is the LightSheer laser, considered the gold standard for years.
Why? Because it is highly selective, targeting hair follicles precisely, while its cooling tip offers greater comfort and safety for all skin types.
Additional Benefits
Even though adverse reactions are rare, they can occur with any professional. The key difference is that a dermatologist is best qualified to manage and treat such situations safely.
Another advantage of medical supervision is that skin conditions like folliculitis, irritation, or dark spots can improve significantly with proper pre- and post-laser care — since the patient is treated in a more comprehensive and personalized way.
Contact
Clínica de Pele has been a leading dermatology clinic in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969.
Dr. Ronaldo Szerman has more than 20 years of experience and teaches laser techniques to other physicians.
