Laser Hair Removal: The How and Why
Tired of shaving, waxing, and plucking unsightly facial and body hair? Do you feel self-conscious about wearing certain clothing or feel limited as to what you can wear due to embarrassing hair? If this describes you, you are an ideal candidate for laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal is the most popular beautification treatment in the United States, as it is an effective treatment for those who wish to permanently reduce or remove excess or undesirable body or facial hair. Whereas shaving, waxing, or electrolysis may leave cuts, rough skin or cause discomfort, light based hair removal efficiently removes hair and produces effortlessly smooth skin.
The benefits of laser hair removal
Patients experience smoother, more even skin, and enjoy more time in their schedules due to less time removing hair. Patients will also find total and permanent hair removal after only a few sessions of treatment. All sizes of areas on the body are treatable.
Some cons to the process
Treatment does require multiple sessions, but is permanent. Dark skin with dark hair may not respond as well, due to less distinction of pigment. Laser hair removal may not respond as successfully to blonde, white, or gray hair. The number of required treatments is dependent on age, gender, hair characteristics, location of procedure, and chosen laser process.
How to prepare for treatment
Prior to any laser sessions, avoid activities that stress the skin such as shaving, waxing or direct exposure to sunlight. The surgeon may request those with darker skin to use bleaching cream prior to treatment for better response to the laser process. Avoid smoking, as well as any anti-inflammatory medication such as Advil that may increase bleeding. Be sure to hydrate well before laser hair removal to enhance the healing process.
What to expect during treatment
Before any laser use, protective eye-wear must be worn. Hair in the regions of treatment will be trimmed, and a coolant gel or cream will be applied to increase effectiveness of light penetration. A low-power laser will then be applied to regions of the body specified for hair removal, and will deactivate hair follicles in the area. Several sessions may be necessary.