Laser Hair Removal Procedure

A popular non-invasive cosmetic option, permanent laser hair removal is an effective treatment that produces lasting results. Read the sections below to find more information on the procedure and what to expect after laser hair removal treatment, as well as how to find a laser hair removal specialist in your area.

Information on the Laser Hair Removal Procedure

While laser hair removal has become an increasingly popular treatment, many people who are interested are still uneducated about the specifics of the treatment and recovery after the procedure. Having accurate information on laser hair removal is imperative to making an educated decision about undergoing treatment. Prospective patients should be educated about the requirements of candidacy, the procedure, and post-procedural guidelines before deciding whether laser hair removal treatment is right for them.

Candidates for Laser Hair Removal

Most patients can enjoy a permanent reduction in unwanted hair after undergoing treatment using the latest laser hair removal technology. However, while laser hair removal is a popular option for removing excess or unwanted hair and is perceived to be relatively simple, it is not for everyone. Candidates for the laser hair removal treatment should be in good physical, mental, and emotional health and understand the benefits of laser hair removal, the risks of laser hair removal, and the specifics of the procedure. It is important to meet with a doctor who can provide you with information on laser hair removal treatment and help you determine if you are a viable candidate for the procedure.

Among the most important factors of good candidacy is the natural color of your hair and skin. As a general rule, the contrast between the natural color of the hair and natural color of the skin is the key to the effectiveness and overall satisfaction gained from the laser hair removal treatment. A combination or darker hair and lighter skin is the ideal coupling for the best results. While people with darker skin and lighter hair can also gain satisfying results after laser hair removal, the treatment may prove to be less effective. Even graying, red, or blonde hair can keep you from achieving ideal results.

Another factor in determining the candidacy of a laser hair removal patient is the thickness of the hair that you wish to have removed. Thicker, coarser hair can be removed much more easily than finer, thinner hair. Thinner hair often requires multiple laser hair removal treatments, but in some cases even multiple treatments are ineffective.

Women who want laser hair removal should consult their doctors before deciding to receive the treatment if they are or may be pregnant. People who are taking certain medications to control acne should also consult their dermatologists before making the decision to undergo the laser hair removal procedure.

During Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Typically, the areas to be treated are shaved a few days prior to the laser hair removal treatment. On the day of the procedure, an anesthetic cream may be applied, although this step is not necessary. In addition, a cool laser tip, spray, or gel can be used to make the treatment feel more comfortable, depending on the type of laser that is to be used.

Both the patient and the laser hair removal technician need to wear special glasses that are designed to filter out harmful light during the treatment. Based on a relatively quick but comprehensive evaluation, the laser hair removal technician will properly adjust the laser and may use the laser on various test spots. The laser is adjusted for power, size, and pulse frequency to optimize the treatment for the patient’s comfort.

The laser energy is then focused on the hair follicles using a hand-held laser. Most laser hair removal patients report little or no discomfort during the procedure, which ranges in length based on the size of the laser hair removal treatment areas.

After Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Although patients can return to normal activities immediately after laser hair removal treatment, some swelling and redness may occur. These byproducts of laser hair removal treatment typically go away within 24 hours. Ice, anti-inflammatory creams, or aloe gels or lotions may also be applied to the treated area to minimize discomfort and the risk of complications. Many patients have compared the ensuing discomfort to a mild sunburn.

The majority of patients are scheduled for subsequent treatments four to six weeks after the initial procedure. Treatments will continue until the growth of hair has been eliminated.

After multiple laser hair removal sessions, the results of your treatment will be evident. Most patients enjoy an 80 to 90 percent reduction in hair growth. Although the laser hair removal results are permanent, some patients may need occasional touch-up sessions to treat individual hairs.

Locate a Laser Hair Removal Specialist in Your Area

Learn more about permanent laser hair removal treatment options and information on what to expect during and after laser hair removal treatment by contacting a specialist in your area. Search through DocShop’s directory of skin care specialists.