Laser Hair Removal Information
Laser hair removal for unwanted hair has become one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed in the world. Laser hair removal utilizes beams of highly concentrated light designed to selectively penetrate into the hair follicles, to be absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicles and to destroy the hair within that hair follicle. A variety of lasers and light sources have been developed that may be employed in laser hair removal. The procedure was originally described to be performed on dark hairs on light skin; newer technologies have made the procedure safer for patients with darker skin and those of color. Various types of lasers are utilized with laser hair removal – the most common of which are alexandrite, diode, Neodymium YAG and intense pulsed light sources.
*Results may vary
*Results may vary
*Results may vary
*Results may vary
Why choose laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal can remove unwanted hair, be it from a condition that causes excess hair growth or just the desire for a new look. Most individuals will require a series of treatments over time which will result in the removal of the unwanted hair. Most of the lasers and light sources are FDA cleared for permanent hair reduction, which means reduction over time. Some individuals will see very long term hair removal which may last for many years. Others may require maintenance treatments over time to maintain their degree of hair loss. It is truly impossible to determine in advance who will require how many treatments and how long the hair will remain gone. As stated above, laser hair removal works best in those with dark hairs on lighter skin, however newer technologies and newer lasers and light sources have made the procedure safe and effective in those with darker skin and those individuals of color.
Possible risks
As with any treatment, there are risks associated with it, though they are minimized in the hands of a qualified dermatologist. These include:
- Pain
- Blisters
- Burns
- Skin pigmentation problems
- Scarring
How to prepare for the procedure
Before the procedure, dermatologist will usually review the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical exam. This is the time for the doctor and patient to discuss expectations, potential risks and outcomes of the procedure. Patients also should:
- Avoid sunbathing, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peels or collagen injections for two weeks prior to the procedure.
- Avoid perfumes, deodorants or any potential irritants in the treatment area before and after treatment.
- Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements due to increased risk of bleeding.
What to expect after the procedure
Following treatment, patients should expect:
- Redness and swelling of the hair follicle, which is a normal occurrence.
- Pain and discomfort, which can be easily treated with over-the-counter pain medicines.
- To be given a prescription for a topical antiseptic cream to be applied after treatment.
- To avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week following all laser hair removal procedures.
- To repeat laser every 4-6 weeks.
- Laser 6-8 sessions are needed to remove all hair.
*Recovery times / Results can vary depending on individual
More Information
As hair is one defining characteristics of human or even animals, we human are covered with follicles that produce two types of hair – Vellus hair and Terminal hair :
Vellus Hair
A short, fine and less noticeable hair, which helps maintaining body temperature to its normal level. The length of vellus is usually around 2 – 4 cm and varied according to genetics.
Terminal Hair
Comparing to vellus, terminal hair are thicker, longer, and a lot darker. Terminal hair usually appear once we go through puberty when androgenic hormone being increased and vellus hair are replaced with terminal hair in some parts of our body such as armpits
While there are plenty of home remedies to remove unwanted hairs, the best alternative world can give you today as technologies grow faster than trees so far is laser hair removal. With this method, a laser is directed through the skin to the hair follicle, where it stops growth. It works best on light – skinned people with dark hair because the melanin in the hair absorbs more of the light, making the treatment more effective. The result can be permanent, but people often need to return every 6 months to a year for maintenance. Avoiding the sun before a treatment may make the results more effective.
Removing ones hair depend on individual perspective, as some culture might view it as beautiful and natural. Removing them is only for aesthetic purpose, and leave them on wouldn’t affect your health at all cost.
*Recovery times / Results can vary depending on individual