What is Laser Hair Removal?

LASER is Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Laser light can be extremely intense and can be directed with great precision. Laser systems used in hair removal generate a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin to the hair follicle. The energy is absorbed by the follicle. This process generates heat that disables the follicle.

Laser hair removal procedure is among the most popular cosmetic procedures performed in the United States.

What is there to know about it?

• The procedure is effective at the hair growth phase.
• As number of treatments increase, less hair grows back. It can result in permanent hair removal if the treatment protocol recommended by your Laser Hair Removal Clinic is followed. You will need at least four treatments.
• The results vary from one individual to another.
• The procedure is rather expensive, depending on the area applied to. The average cost is around $400.
• Laser hair removal can be applied for removal of unwanted hair on face or body.
• The proceure is less painful than waxing.
• The treatment consists of multiple sessions, each 1-2 hours long, depending on area.

Who can use it?

When first introduced, it was limited to light skinned individuals with dark hair. Now, with the improvement of the technology, great results are obtained for individuals with dark skin and dark hair. Laser Hair Removal can be used by anyone who wants to get rid of unwanted hair.

The procedure is NOT recommended for:

• Teenagers
• Persons with very delicate skin
• Persons with a history of intolerance to laser treatments.

Laser hair removal procedure:

There are various types of lasers utilized in this procedure, including alexandrite, Neodymium, diode, YAG and intense pulsed light sources.

A hand-held laser device is pressed against the skin and is activated just for a fraction of a second. Lasers can have a cooling device that helps protecting the skin during the procedure and reduce chances of irritation and skin burns during the procedure. The cooling of the skin may be completed after the procedure by cooling gel, cooling cryogen sprays or airflow cooling.

Preparation for the procedure:

• You'll have a test in order to be determined the amount of laser energy needed, which varies from person to person. Make sure you have the doctor make this test to avoid skin burns.
• You will not wax the surfaces involved, you'll shave them before the procedure.

Problems and side effects that may occur:

• Darkening/lightening of the skin - temporary conditions usually
• Excessive pain, blistering and scaring - rarely occur. Redness and swelling of the hair follicle are normal events.
• Hair changes. The new hair will be finer and lighter in color. New hair growth may be finer and lighter in color.

If you have such a treatment, avoid at all costs direct sun exposure for at least one week following all laser hair removal procedures.