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Laser hair removal has quickly become one of the staples of recent years. It is a permanent, long-lasting way to get rid of unwanted hair with a minimal amount of discomfort and downtime. If you are constantly sick of shaving or waxing or just looking for something more permanent, laser hair removal could be for you. Beauty laser hair removal will help prepare you for your first treatment, like how Professional laser hair removal machines work and what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that employs high-intensity light (laser) to target and kill hair follicles. The pigment (melanin) in the hair absorbs this light energy, heating and destroying the follicle to prevent future hair growth. It can be done on almost any body part, even sensitive areas such as the bikini line, upper lip, and underarms.
The most significant advantage of laser hair removal is that you get long-term benefits. Other hair removal methods, such as shaving and waxing, are only temporary. Still, laser hair removal can permanently reduce hair growth; in most cases, permanent results can be achieved after multiple sessions.
How does laser hair removal even work?
Laser hair removal targets the melanin found in hair follicles. The laser sends out light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair and the dark pigment in the hair. This energy is transformed into heat, damaging the follicle so it will not grow hair again.
Laser hair removal depends on contrast: It compares the darkness of the hair to the rest of the skin; because of this, it tends to work only in individuals with light skin and dark hair. Despite this, technological development regarding lasers meaa concern, whichot everybody with dark hair on light skin is a good candidate for laser in the future.
Common Types of Lasers Used for Hair Removal
Lasers used for hair removal these days come in a variety of types based on different skin and hair types:
- Alexandrite laser works best on women with lighter to medium skin tones and dark hair. It is a laser that provides speed and efficiency on larger body treatment surfaces (e.g., legs and back).
- Diode Laser: This is ideal for medium to darker skin types. It penetrates deeper to target the hair follicles and works best on thicker hair types.
- Nd: YAG Laser: Effective for individuals with darker skin types because it bypasses the epidermis and reaches deeper into the skin. It can also be used on coarse hair.
- Ruby Laser: The least used for hair removal since it is low efficiency for dark skin and hair. It works best for people with light skin and dark hair.
Your practitioner will use the right laser based on your skin type, hair color, and treatment area.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Laser hair removal is often regarded as safe and effective when performed by a qualified professional in a controlled environment. There is no risk of side effects, but some people experience mild redness, swelling, or irritation in the treated area. These side effects typically resolve in a few hours to a day.
Some medical conditions can affect whether or not you are a candidate for laser hair removal, including:
- Pregnant: The effects of laser hair removal during pregnancy are one of the lesser-known research areas; therefore, it is best not to proceed with laser hair removal during pregnancy.
- Ongoing skin conditions: If you have skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or sunburn, it is advisable to postpone laser hair removal until these are no longer active.
- Tanning: Do not tan before your session. Dark or tanned skin is more likely to be burned or discolored by the laser.
Be sure to see a licensed provider to receive the safest treatment for you.
What To Expect When You Go For Your First Laser Hair Removal Session
Despite being the most essential thing you can do to ensure that your laser hair removal treatment is not only a success but also as safe as possible, few people take the time to prepare themselves properly before they go in for a treatment. Here is what you should do to prepare for your first session:
- Do Not Sun Exposure Skin: Avoid sunlight for at least two weeks before treatment. If the skin is tanned, the risk of side effects such as burns or pigmentation changes is increased.
- Hair Removal: Shave area(s) are to be treated on the day of your treatment. This allows the laser to reach the hair follicle efficiently. Do not wax or pluck because if the hair is removed from the follicle, there is nothing for the laser to attack.
- Do Not Use Certain Skin Products: Avoid applying lotion, cream, or deodorant to the treatment area. These can disrupt the effectiveness of the laser while potentially increasing irritation risk.
- Consult with Your Provider: When you consult with your provider, they will go through your medical history and determine if laser hair removal suits you. The few medications they take that you treat will be reviewed.
What to Anticipate During the Treatment
Upon arriving for your appointment, the treatment area will be sanitized, and you will wear protective eyewear to protect your eyes from the laser light. The session duration will depend on the area treated, but it can range from 15 minutes (smaller areas such as the upper lip) to one hour (larger areas such as the legs or back).
A cooling gel or air cooling system can be used on the skin to limit discomfort. Most patients say it feels like a mild sting or snap, similar to being snapped with a rubber band. Generally, the pain is tolerable, but topical numbing creams may be used if desired.
A handheld device delivers the laser pulses, which are administered by the laser technician. The number of pulses will vary between patients depending on the size of the treatment area and the thickness of the hair, but generally, a well-defined number will be necessary.
What to Expect After the Treatment
You may experience some redness or swelling for a few hours after your treatment, similar to how you may feel after a very mild sunburn. Usually, this can go away in hours. In the initial weeks after the procedure, the existing hair follicles in the area may appear to expand and then lose.
Here are some aftercare tips:
- Keep out of the sun: You need to stay out of the sun when your treatment is done. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to avoid pigmentation changes.
- No waxing or plucking: Stay away from the wax or tweezers if you notice any hair after your treatment. It is not advisable to uproot the hair by oneself—let it fall out spontaneously.
- Moisturizing: Using a gentle lotion to keep the skin hydrated and any irritation down.
- Skip the hot shower or sauna: In the initial days, refrain from taking a hot shower, sauna, or any skin irritation activity.
So, How Many Treatments Are Necessary?
Laser hair elimination isn’t an everlasting answer. You will need a series of treatments (usually 4-6 weeks apart) for best results. Hair grows in different cycles, and the laser works better when the hair is technically in the active growth stage. It varies from individual to individual and can take between 6 to 8 sessions on average, but it can be higher or lower as well, depending on hair type, skin color, and the area to be treated.
What Results Can You Expect?
Laser hair removal reduces hair growth but does not permanently remove all of it. Most people undergo long-term hair thinning; any regrowth is usually thinner and lighter. You may require maintenance sessions once per year or as the hair starts to grow back over the years.
Summary
Laser hair removal is an effective and long-lasting treatment that eliminates unwanted hair and leaves the skin smooth without the hassle of shaving every few days or waxing with pain. If you prepare correctly and follow the aftercare tips, your treatment should be safe and effective.
Speak to a licensed provider about whether you are a candidate before laser hair removal and everything you need to know before, during, and after your treatment. Taking good care of the newly smooth skin can last for many months or even years.
