What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Many individuals dislike hair growth that commonly appears on certain body parts but dread having to constantly suffer through uncomfortable, and sometimes less than effective, hair removal methods like waxing, shaving or plucking the hairs out on an ongoing basis.

Hair growth varies depending on several factors that include age, sex, race, genetics, skin, eye and hair color, texture of hair along with whether the individual suffers from certain medical conditions, like polycystic-ovary syndrome (POCS,) or takes certain medications, supplements or hormones that may cause increased body hair growth.

Bothersome or excessive hair growth locations that many individuals decide to undergo hair removal methods, like waxing, plucking, use of hair removal products and laser hair removal, for include:

• Chest
• Back
• Face
• Legs
• Pubic or bikini area
• Armpits

Many people have thought about undergoing professional laser hair removal services but want to gain some knowledge about this procedure first before booking an appointment at a local beauty lounge and med spa that offers these popular treatment sessions.

So, What Exactly Is Laser Hair Removal Anyway?

This method of hair removal is done with a laser that emits a focused beam of light and heat that can penetrate deep into the root hair follicle to vaporize or destroy it thereby stopping or dramatically lessening future hair growth in treated areas.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

This procedure should only be performed by qualified individuals who have the experience and training to operate this specialized equipment. Laser hair removal may be done in an office setting and requires minimal preparation along with a few aftercare steps to perform.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Work? Is This Treatment Permanent?

The results following laser hair removal treatments will vary depending on several factors. These include location of unwanted hair, thickness and amount of hair growth, overall health condition, type of skin, how many treatment sessions are needed, skill and experience of laser operator, type of laser used and other factors.

This procedure can slow the growth of hair in the treated areas, but it is usually not entirely permanent. This means that several sessions are required with in-between spaces to increase effectiveness of treatments and help decrease the potential for unwanted side effects.

Over time, continued treatment sessions may lessen and change the hair regrowth to become sparser and finer. The results may last from 4 to 8 weeks on areas that have faster regrowth of hair, such as the upper lip, and 12 to 18 weeks on areas that have a slower hair growth rate such as on the back or chest area.

Afterwards, maintenance treatment sessions are generally required to keep the same level of effectiveness.

Why Does Laser Hair Removal Require Multiple Treatment Sessions?

Only a certain level of heat and light may be used on the skin to help avoid unwanted side effects like burns and other skin damage. The root is buried deep into the dermal layers, and the treatments work best over time with multiple sessions recommended at certain intervals for the greatest chance of effectiveness.

How Long Should I Wait In-Between Treatment Sessions?

Expect sessions to be recommended from 4 to 18 weeks. This will vary depending on multiple factors, and all recommended care instructions should be meticulously followed. Most individuals will undergo the procedure every 4 to 6 weeks at first. Results may last for months to years following completion of all recommended sessions.

Consider the following tips, facts and care information about laser hair removal.

When Doesn’t Laser Hair Removal Treatments Work?

People who have very light eyes, hair and skin color, along with those who have extremely dark pigmentation of skin, chronic ailments or experience regular skin problems, will have a higher risk of side effects.

Those who have certain health conditions that cause increased hair growth over certain body areas, those taking hormones or other medications that could increase hair growth or cause skin issues, pregnant women and others may not be good candidates for this treatment or may experience less overall effectiveness.

Are There Any Contraindications to Worry About?

Heed these possible contradictions that include:

• Not for use on eyelids, eyebrows or surrounding eye area
• Don’t use on tattooed skin, scarred areas, sunburns, rashes or other skin irritations
• Not for use on open wounds, cuts or infected skin
• Not recommended for inside nose, ears or mouth or near genitals
• Certain medications and treatments are contradictory – hormones, use of antibiotics, using or taking retinol and others
• Pregnant women should avoid this treatment

A Few Facts Regarding Laser Hair Removal

1. Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?

When used properly by a highly trained and experienced skincare expert, laser hair removal is generally considered safe. Of course, there are always potential side effects and complications that may arise with any sort of laser therapy or treatments.

2. Are There At-Home Hair Removal Options That Are Just as Effective?

Some individuals will find that a few of the at-home hair removal options will work for them. Alternate methods include waxing, electrolysis, plucking and using topical hair removal products. Hair removal using a laser is often more effective overall, and treatments to maintain the effectiveness are often needed less often after the preliminary treatment session series are completed.

3. Are There Any Potential Side Effects to Worry About?

If the laser operator uses the wrong settings, burn injuries could occur. Those with very sensitive skin may not be good candidates for laser hair removal. The procedure may also increase sun sensitivity for a time afterwards. Other side effects occur skin pigmentation changes, scarring and continued or serious inflammation at treated site.

Mild redness, discomfort and inflammation at site are often present for a period 1 to 2 days but should then begin to subside. Signs and symptoms of an infection should also be evaluated by a doctor and treated.

4. How Long Does It Generally Take to See Results After Laser Hair Removal?

Many clients see a 25% to 60% degree, and sometimes higher, of effective results after the first treatment, and others will see greater effective results over time.

5. How Do I Prep Before a Laser Hair Removal Treatment Session?

• Wear sunscreen and protect skin when outdoors 4 weeks prior to session
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Follow all prep instructions given after consult
• Shave to be treated region only if directed by service provider
• Avoid using any other hair removal or irritating skin products and techniques

Some Helpful Aftercare Tips Following Laser Hair Removal

Follow these helpful laser hair removal aftercare facts and tips.

Do’s

• Do apply cool compresses as directed
• Do use any recommended aftercare medications like, numbing medications, Tylenol or anti-inflammatory medication for discomfort relief
• Do continue to protect treated skin from sun for at least a month
• Do report and seek treatment for burns, blisters, rashes, pain, fever or continued inflammation from your doctor

Don’ts

• Don’t wear constrictive clothing near treatment area
• Don’t use irritating skincare products on treated area
• Don’t shave immediately after procedure if skin is red, sore or inflamed

Many individuals can say goodbye to unwanted hair growth on other body areas by undergoing a laser hair removal procedure typically consisting of several sessions over a time interval. Learn more about this hair removal option by contacting Timeless Aesthetics Beauty Lounge and MedSpa by phone. Book anytime online at your convenience.