Laser Hair Removal: Benefits, Side Effects, and Cost
Traditional hair removal methods such as shaving, tweezing and waxing can be time-consuming, tedious and expensive. Laser hair reduction provides a permanent solution for unwanted hair with minimal discomfort and side effects.
You may experience some redness and swelling after your treatment, but this should resolve quickly. You will also need to keep your treated areas protected from sun exposure as this can cause hyper-pigmentation and burns.
What is it?
Laser hair reduction is the process of removing unwanted hair from the body by targeting dark pigment in the hair follicles. The light energy delivered by the laser destroys the follicle and inhibits future hair growth, eliminating the need for shaving, waxing, or electrolysis.
During a treatment, the hand piece is placed on your skin and pulses of light are delivered through the active cooling system. The laser’s cold surface keeps your skin safe and comfortable, with no downtime required.
Laser hair reduction is safe for all skin types and tones, including those with blond, brown or red hair. However, it is important to avoid tanning and tweezing or waxing the areas prior to your procedure. This is because the hair must be in its growth phase to respond to the light.
How does it work?
A laser light beam passes through the skin to the hair follicle, which is targeted by pigment (color) in the hair. The laser energy heats the hair follicle, which disables it from producing more hair.
Unlike electrolysis, laser treatments can disable many hairs in one session. In comparison, electrologists work one hair follicle at a time with a needle and electrical charge.
After laser treatment, hair may look a bit darker or thicker for a day or two as the body sheds its “dormant” hair roots. However, the hair that regrows is generally finer and lighter in color than the original hair.
It is important to not wax, shave or use EpiLady-type pluckers for SIX weeks prior to laser treatment as these will temporarily remove the pigment that the laser seeks out and destroys. Usually, 6 to 8 laser treatment sessions are required for long-term results.
How long will it take?
Laser hair removal is very quick and relatively painless, requiring no downtime. The skin may be red and swollen for an hour or so but this usually subsides quickly. Applying a cool compress can help with any discomfort. A rare side effect can be a slight change in pigment in the skin, sometimes it looks like a sunburn and can last several months. However, it is very important to follow our instructions and avoid sun exposure between treatments and use a broad spectrum SPF30 sunscreen when you do go outside.
It is also very important to not wax, pluck or use epilady-type pluckers between sessions because the laser only destroys ACTIVELY GROWING hair follicles. This is why multiple sessions are required for best results.
Are there any side effects?
Laser hair removal offers a safe and effective alternative to painful waxing, electrolysis and razors. Laser technology is FDA cleared for permanent reduction of unwanted hair.
The laser light absorbed by the melanin in your hair follicles is converted to heat and destroys the follicle, reducing or eliminating future hair growth. Your skin will look smooth and silky after a series of treatments, allowing you to enjoy a hair-free lifestyle!
Depending on your skin tone, treatment and hair color, laser hair reduction can reduce hair by 70% to 90% (give or take). Some hairs may grow back. Some people will require more treatments than others because not all hair is in the growing phase at any given time. However, these sessions are quick and virtually painless.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate?
Depending on your skin tone and hair type, laser treatments can permanently remove unwanted hair from your body. For the best results, avoid tanning before and after laser treatment, as this increases melanin in your skin.
You may experience a sunburn sensation and minor swelling after your procedure, but this typically lasts only a few days. Before deciding to undergo laser treatment, please discuss any medical conditions that could hinder wound healing, including pregnancy, active infections, keloid scars and recent isotretinoin use, with your dermatologist.
Unwanted hair can be a real embarrassment or nuisance for many men and women. If you’re tired of shaving or waxing, you should consider laser treatment to help permanently remove unwanted hair. Call today to book your consultation! You deserve beautiful skin.