What is Laser Hair Removal?

What is Laser Hair Removal?

The technology used in laser hair removal utilizes concentrated, pulsating lightbeams to get rid of undesirable hair in the back, face, legs, bikini, and underarms area.   Melanin in the bulb of the hair is targeted and the laser damages it, which halts all future growth. Ingrown hair which causes coarse or reddened skin is also usually cleared after treatment.

This type of hair removal may be effective on people of more or less on Fitzapatrick I-VI. Most machines though still works best on individuals that have whiter skin and blacker hair.  There have been improvements with the latest technology that people with dark skin are now able to have this service. Blond, white, and grey hair usually can't be eliminated with laser hair removal because there's no pigment to focus the laser on.

Numerous treatments are typically needed to eliminate hair.  For the finest results, you should go for at least seven treatments spaced frequent weeks apart.  Preventive care can also be required.

Laser hair removal is so prevalent nowadays it is often done in casual settings, like beauty salon and spas. It's necessary to select a board-certified dermatologist or surgeon who's trained in a medical environment to administer the therapy. 

Preparation

Before each session, you'll have a preliminary consultation in clinic. They will also inspect the areas in the body you want hair eradicated, the color, and in what stage it is in the hair development cycle. Included in your plan or program is its related expenditures are also discussed, also adding any related risks.

Always use a sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage. This includes areas to be lasered.

Avoid tanning beds. If you’ve got a synthetic tan from that or any self-tanning device, your tan must vanish before your session.

Do not use creams or have electrolysis for at least one month prior therapy. Plucking as waxing is also prohibited. Shaving is fine since it leaves the root set up as a target.  Shaving will also be done prior, either in the clinic or they will advise you to do it at home.

Procedure

Before session starts, the concentrated area is washed.  A topical kind of anesthetic can then be placed on the region to make you comfortable, although a lot of patients don't need it.

You may use protective goggles throughout the process for your eyes. The laser operator will maintain your skin tight while the lasering is in progress. The laser will go through your skin into the very small follicles in which hair growth arises. You might feel a tingling sensation or hot pinpricks.

The period of therapy will be dependent on the extent of the section treated.

Recovery

There may be swelling or redness for the initial couple of hours following laser epilation.  You might also experience a tingling feeling for a day or 2.  The place could also become somewhat crusty.

Do not rub or pick on the spot and remember to wash gently with water and soap.  Avoid sunlight exposure, both artificial and natural, for a minimum of one week following therapy. 

Resources:

• Images from Amerejuve Clinic.
• https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/care-centers/dermatology/procedures/laser-hair-removal