Unwanted hair on various places of the body haunts men and women. Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target and destroy hair follicles, inhibiting future hair growth. This non-invasive treatment is effective on various body areas, including the face, legs, underarms, and bikini line. With multiple sessions, laser hair removal can provide long-lasting results, offering a convenient and efficient solution to unwanted hair.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that effectively and permanently eliminates unwanted hair from various areas of the body, including the face, legs, arms, underarms, and bikini line. This innovative treatment works by delivering highly concentrated light, specifically laser energy, into the targeted hair follicles. The melanin, or pigment, within the hair follicles, absorbs this energy, converting it into heat. As the heat accumulates, it damages the hair follicle’s structure, preventing future hair growth. Four to six sessions are typically required for approximately 80% reduction in hair.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
The advantages of laser hair removal are that it is a safe, cost-effective method with few side effects. This method is fast and virtually pain-free. Laser-assisted hair removal is less painful and provides longer-lasting results than the traditional ways of hair removal (electrolysis). Scarring is much less apt to occur with laser hair removal than with electrolysis. Also, it is the most effective method of permanent hair reduction approved by the FDA. Outcomes vary, as with any other treatment. Having a physician perform or direct the treatment is of extreme importance in order to achieve maximal beneficial outcomes and reduce the possibility of adverse effects or complications.
The Laser Hair Removal Session: What to Expect
Before your first laser hair removal session, you’ll typically have a consultation with a trained provider. During this meeting, you’ll discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. The provider will assess your skin and hair type to determine the most suitable laser settings for your treatment. It’s crucial to be honest about any medications, recent sun exposure, or skin conditions, as they can impact the procedure’s effectiveness and safety.
On the day of your session, you’ll be advised to shave the treatment area, ensuring that the hair is short but still visible. Avoid waxing or plucking before the session, as the laser needs the hair’s root to be intact for effective targeting.
You should also avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen to protect the treatment area in the weeks leading up to your appointment.
During the actual treatment, you’ll wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the laser’s intense light. The provider will apply a cooling gel to the treatment area to minimize discomfort and protect the skin. The laser device emits brief pulses of high-energy light, which is absorbed by the hair follicles. You may feel a sensation akin to a rubber band snapping against your skin, but most individuals find it tolerable. The length of the session depends on the size of the area being treated, with smaller areas like the upper lip taking only a few minutes, while larger areas like the legs may require longer.
How Many Sessions Do I Need?
At this time, laser therapy will remove existing hairs. Those that have not yet come through the skin may require some future treatment. Most treatment protocols usually take 3 to 6 treatments to be effective, spaced every 6-8 weeks. After these treatments, most patients will have no growth of hair for a period of time that may vary from months to years.
Laser hair removal should be considered “hair reduction” because a small percentage of hair will always grow back no matter what form of laser hair removal is used. Patients that experience re-growth, however, will usually have a finer, less dense population of hair in that anatomical area. Spot treatments may be done to achieve an even more desirable result.
The Recovery Process After Laser Hair Removal
Immediately after the procedure, you may notice some redness and mild swelling in the treated area. This is normal and usually subsides within a few hours to a couple of days. Applying a soothing, hydrating lotion or aloe vera gel can help alleviate any discomfort. It’s crucial to avoid direct sun exposure and to use sunscreen on the treated area for several weeks post-treatment to prevent pigmentation changes or sunburn.
Over the next few weeks, you’ll notice a gradual reduction in hair growth in the treated area. It’s essential to be patient, as it typically takes multiple sessions (usually 6-8) spaced several weeks apart to achieve the desired results. It’s also crucial to avoid any hair removal methods that could disrupt the hair follicles, such as waxing or plucking. Following the provider’s aftercare instructions will help ensure a smooth recovery process and maximize the laser’s effectiveness.
Schedule Your Consultation
Skin Center & Total Health Spa is your trusted destination for a comprehensive transformation. Under the guidance of Dr. McCollough, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, our professional facility is designed to rejuvenate your face, body, mind, and spirit. If you’re ready to embark on a journey towards hair-free skin, we invite you to schedule your consultation. Our state-of-the-art facility is just minutes away from the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. Your path to enduring health, happiness, and prosperity starts here.
