The unwanted hair and its removal is a big thing among all those who want smooth and shiny skin. To cater to that particular issue, there are different hair removal methods. The skincare industry today offers a lot of options for hair removal. The most common and temporary solutions are:

• Waxing
• Threading
• Shaving
• Tweezing

However, the one particular treatment and option that stands out in terms of providing near permanent results and getting rid of unwanted hair is the laser hair removal treatment. 

For those who are already considering it and choose it as the best option, there are certain things that you need to know about. Like any other beauty treatment, it is worth diving into deeper research and getting to know everything there is about it. By doing that thoroughly, you will set your mind straight about whether this treatment is the right option and choice for you. 

What is laser hair removal and how is it done?

Laser hair removal is a non-evasive technique that works in reducing and removing unwanted body hair. It is one of the most popular approaches in and a great option for those who have excess body hair and look for a way to efficiently deal with it. It is marked as a medical procedure and it needs to be performed by certified technicians.

The process of laser hair removal uses concentrated beams of light that come from the laser. It is what removes unwanted hair. The laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. This type of light energy is converted to heat. As such, it damages the tube-shaped sacs within the skin, also known as hair follicles. Those are what produce the hair, and such damage delays or prevents future hair growth, resulting in smooth skin. 

Laser hair removal efficiently delays hair growth for long periods. However, it is important to know that it does not result in permanent hair removal, which can be a deal-breaker for those who are looking for that. For the initial hair removal, there is multiple laser hair removal treatment that will work. Maintenance treatments are also needed and suggested. It is the most effective for people who have light skin and dark hair, but it is also suitable and suggested on all skin types. 

What are the benefits of laser hair removal?

As mentioned above, laser hair removal is a non-surgical medical procedure. As such, it does not require any downtime, which makes it a very convenient choice. As a technique, the laser hair solution is used to remove the unwanted hair from different parts of the body such as:

• Face
• Legs
• Chin
• Back
• Underarms
• Bikini Line
• Brazilian

With that the benefits of laser hair removal are:

Precision – With a selective target, the laser works on the dark coarse hair. It leaves the surrounding skin undamaged and healthy. 

Speed – As a procedure, this is a fast way to get rid of unwanted hair. The process is fast, where each pulse of the laser takes a fraction of a second, and that way treats many hairs at the same time. Every second, an area of the size of a quarter is efficiently treated. For example, the upper lip area can be treated in less than a minute, while some larger areas like legs or the back will need about an hour. 

Predictability – What is great about this procedure is that hair loss after 3 to 7 sessions is common for most. 

How much does laser hair removal cost?

Just like any other treatment, the price of hair laser removal can vary. It is also dependable on several factors like:

• Size of the area
• Time needed for a treatment
• Who is performing the procedure
• Where are you having the procedure done

The average price is around $389. 

How to prepare for the first laser hair appointment?

As a medical procedure, laser hair removal does carry certain risks. That is why it is best to get prepared and informed about everything the process includes. 

The biggest and most important thing is to have it performed by a certified and specialized doctor or technician.

Plucking, waxing, and electrolysis are not suggested and you need to stay away from it at least six weeks before the treatment. This is because the laser targets the hair roots. If you wax them or pluck them, they will be temporarily removed.

Sun exposure is another important thing to mention. Staying away from the sun, 2 weeks before and after the treatment is highly suggested since the sun makes the laser hair removal less effective. It can also contribute to after-treatment complications.  

What to expect during and after the first appointment?

Before the procedure, the hair will be trimmed to a few milometers above the skin surface. The outer layers of the skin will be protected with a cold gel or cooling device, that will help the laser penetrate the skin. When the procedure is over, the client may get ice packs to ease any possible discomfort. The next treatment can be scheduled as soon as 4-8 weeks after the first treatment. 

Some side effects after the procedure can include:

• Blistering
• Herpes simplex (cold sores) outbreaks
• Infections
• Scarring
• Skin lightening or darkening

These are all possible but rare.

Useful tips for getting the most out of your laser hair removal treatments

Here are some useful tips that will help you get the most out of your laser hair removal treatments:

• avoid tanning
• avoid caffeine
• stay away from the sun
• stay out of the gym for the next 24 hours
• expect more hair growth
• switch up your beauty and skincare regime and products
• gently exfoliate the skin 2-3 times a week
• take lukewarm showers first week after the treatment
• avoid using perfumes and deodorant for 48 hours after treatment.

 

 

 

References:

https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/a14414109/laser-hair-removal-facts/
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/laser-hair-removal
https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/hair-removal/laser-hair-removal-faqs