Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that removes unwanted hair for an extended period of time. It uses light waves that target the melanin in hair follicles. Once the follicles are destroyed, hair growth is inhibited and the hair eventually falls out.
The hair removal method can be safe, convenient, and affordable with many reporting lasting results.
Laser Hair Removal: Steps to Take Beforehand
If you have finally decided to get your hair removed, now is the time to take some important steps that you shouldn’t skip.
Make sure you go through the following steps:
- Avoid or limit plucking, waxing, and electrolyzing the hair for six weeks before the procedure.
- Visit a couple of hair removal facilities in person.
- Carefully analyze the facility for hygiene, equipment, and certification of the staff.
- Don’t hesitate to ask about the professional’s eligibility, past work, and results.
- Compare the facilities for their popularity, customer satisfaction, and procedure costs.
What is the Procedure Like?
Laser hair removal doesn’t require any lengthy preparation. You, in fact, don’t need to do anything before going for the treatment.
- Before undergoing the actual laser operation, your hair will be trimmed.
- A topical numbing medicine will also be applied half an hour before the actual procedure. This is just to make you more comfortable with laser zaps which are otherwise tolerable.
- Next, a professional will adjust the laser settings according to the type, color, and location of both your hair and skin.
- The actual hair removal takes only minutes, but the entire process of treatment usually takes about an hour or so.
What Happens After the Procedure?
After a laser hair removal procedure, you should be able to do your normal activities—including going to work, showering, and participating in the activities you love. Some redness and minor swelling are normal after a laser hair removal session, but Dr. Chwalek says these effects should subside within a day.
Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how well the laser works, and many can go up to six weeks without seeing regrowth, Chwalek says.
With more sessions, the hair grows back finer and slower, and the regrowth interval is longer. It’s important to have realistic expectations for laser hair removal, though. Patients who have darker skin, coarse hair, and large areas of unwanted hair are less likely to experience positive results.
According to NHS (National Health Services) England, laser hair removal is not at all permanent as opposed to the popular opinion. The procedure only reduces the number of hair in a particular area and repeated sessions are required.
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Laser Hair Removal Benefits
Laser hair removal is the most effective and efficient treatment for the long-term removal of unwanted hair. It is the only FDA-approved, permanent solution for hair removal.
Here are the major benefits of laser hair removal as compared to waxing, plucking, and electrolyzing:
- Laser hair removal is non-invasive, non-surgical method that doesn’t inflict pain.
- It is a proven, safe, and effective procedure that can be used on any part of the body
- The treatment is safe and effective on all skin types.
- After the treatment, the hair does not grow back for a period of 3 to 6 months. You may see some regrowth before the next treatment, but the regrown hair will be finer and lighter. The hair does not grow back thicker or darker.
Laser Hair Removal: Side Effects
While laser hair removal is generally a safe procedure with minimal side effects, certain rare complications may also occur.
Common side effects:
- Redness of the treated area.
- Temporary swelling.
- Area looking and feeling like sunburn.
- Temporary darkening of the area.
Rare side effects:
- pain, discomfort, or tenderness
- Blistering.
- Bacterial infection.
- Scars.
Laser Hair Removal Cost
The cost of a single laser hair removal procedure depends upon a variety of factors including the amount, and area of treatment.
Below is a rough estimation of the prices for different conditions:
- Upper Lip or Chin $200
- Underarms $200
- Bikini $300 to $375
- Half Leg or Arms $450
- Back $550
- Chest or Abdomen $275 to $300
Laser Hair Removal: Frequently Asked Questions
Still have something in mind about laser hair removal. Please check the below FAQs section for more answers. You can also leave your questions in the comments section below.
Q: How long does laser hair removal take?
A: The actual hair removal takes only minutes, but the entire process of treatment usually takes about an hour or so.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: It depends on the type of laser hair removal you are getting, but most people will need to have about 3-6 treatments, and then touch-ups are recommended once every 6 months or so.
Q: Does laser hair removal hurt?
A: It may hurt a bit, but it is usually not too bad. Sometimes, numbing creams are used to make the treatment more comfortable.
Q: How long will the results of laser hair removal last?
A: Laser hair removal is permanent, but you will need to have touch-ups every six months or so.
Q: Will laser hair removal work on my skin color?
A: Almost any skin color can be treated by laser hair removal, but dark skin colors will need a longer treatment time and more treatments to achieve the best results.
Q: Will laser hair removal work on my hair color?
A: Darker hair colors will need more treatments than blonde or red hair.
Q: What areas can be treated with this method?
A: Most areas of the body can be treated with laser hair removal, including the face, neck, underarms, bikini line, legs, arms, and back.
Q: Can LHR be used on my face?
A: Yes, laser hair removal can be used on the face, but it is usually done only on the upper lip. This area is the most suitable for laser hair removal.
Q: Can the method be used on my chest/breasts?
A: Yes, laser hair removal can be used on the chest/breasts, but it usually is not the best choice. The chest/breasts are very sensitive, and the skin is more sensitive to laser treatments.