What To Know Before Getting Laser Hair Removal

Hair laser removal is increasingly becoming a popular procedure. This treatment is probably the best way to deal with unwanted hair. This remedy is especially suited for individual struggling with thick and fast-growing hair, face constant razor burn and ingrown hairs.

Weighing the benefits brought forward by laser hair removal, you might prefer this method.

What is it?

Laser hair removal is not such a complicated process. To begin, hair grows in cycles. Not every hair follicle goes through the cycles at the same time and speed. Therefore, laser hair treatment targets hair follicles that are almost entering the active, otherwise known as anagen phase of hair growth.

They actively destroy the follicles thus ending hair growth in the specific area. The laser sends concentrated beams of light in the treatment area which is turned into heat as it traverses the skin. The resultant heat is absorbed by the follicles which in turn inhibits their future growth.

Effective laser treatment involves several processes. This is because the hair growth cycle which takes around 4 to 6 weeks. Therefore, you should attend treatment sessions spaced out over this period. Initially, laser hair removal was effective for lighter skins with darker hair. However, with advances in technology, this treatment yields good results for dark skins as well. It also works on other hair colors such as blonde, red, gray, red and white hairs.

Laser hair removal types – which type is good?

There are three main types of laser hair removal. They include:

• Diode – this type is effective for dark and light skins.
• Alexandrite – it is the fastest of all types and works better for removing hair from larger body areas.
• Nd: YAG – it is a long pulse laser treatment type that can be used for all skin types safely. However, it is less effective for fine or light hair compared to other laser types.

Cost?

Initially, laser hair removal was for the few who could afford its expensive nature. However, with increasing popularity, it has become one of the common hair removal procedures being offered at low prices. This makes the process quite affordable.

However, cost depends on where you will go for the procedure. Besides, it also depends on the size of treatment area.

Best body parts for laser hair removal

Whereas this procedure can be used for removing hair from any part of the body, it works exceptionally well on the chin, underarms, lip and bikini areas.

Best candidates for laser hair removal

Laser treatment is attracted to hair pigment or deep color in the hair follicle. This is why individuals with dark hair that is stubborn in regrowth and removal are the best candidates. This treatment works best for those with thick, coarse and dark hair.

Those with thicker hairs should expect results after some time. Nonetheless, some hair could be resistant whereas others grow due to hormonal changes.

Medication restrictions

Laser hair removal, like waxing, is not compatible with certain meds. That said, any medications that are photosensitive should be stopped one week before treatment begins. Most antibiotics are photosensitive. Therefore, those with infections should consider postponing their treatment schedules.

Additionally, you should not be under skin care medications with strong actives including hydroxy acids and retinoids. Medications with these ingredients increase the skin cell turnover thus making the skin more vulnerable to irritation during the treatment period.

Ensure that you consult your physician before beginning this process if you aren’t sure about this.

How long does the procedure take?

The treatment sessions vary from one person to another. As mentioned before, laser hair removal acts on the active stage of hair growth. Note that different body parts have different growth rates. Therefore, this could take longer or shorter depending on the spot being treated. However, a majority of laser hair removal clients usually take an average of six to eight sessions for full removal. Note that you should attend all the treatment sessions for effective results.

Does it hurt?

Threading or waxing is probably the most painful hair treatment options. This doesn’t mean laser removal is totally pain-free. However, the pain felt is tolerable. Additionally, with numbing, this procedure is exceptionally comfortable. Those who have undergone it equals the pain to the feel when a rubber band snaps on your skin or a light warm pinch. Clients may feel some itchiness, warm sensations, and redness post laser treatment. However, this will disappear after few hours.

Preparing for laser hair removal

There are various pre-laser preparations you ought to consider. First and foremost, you should shave your treatment area the night or morning before the treatment. This will enable the laser light to penetrate into the root of the hair follicles. Additionally, avoid waxing, bleaching or tweezing your hair one month before your schedule begins.

This is because the root ought to stay intact for the laser to effectively destroy it. Other minor preparation measures involve dealing with shyness in case you need your private parts done.

Are there any risks?

Laser hair removal is considered a safe treatment. However, note that the light used is dangerous. Some of the risks associated with this treatment include blistering, burning, scarring, discoloration, and redness.

There are also possibilities that your hair could grow back. This calls for frequent treatments to keep your hair at bay.

How to prolong results?

Exfoliating and shaving your hair weekly to encourage your hair attempt growth could help in realizing effective results. The healthier or more active your hair follicle is, the easier it is for the lasers to target and destroys them.

Besides, communicate with your physician the areas which proliferate quickly. Moving on, avoid various things after treatment to ensure a long-lasting result. For instance, if you take hair, nail and skin supplements like biotin, consider stopping. The supplements not only stimulate lustrous hair growth in the head but also in all your body.

Conclusion

Laser hair removal isn’t a challenging treatment as it seems. However, for effective results, finding the perfect professional with quality tools is prudent.

The procedure takes a few minutes as well as short sessions depending on the amount of area you need hair removed.