Laser hair removal is medical procedure that uses concentrated beam of light to remove unwanted hair.
It helps in removing unwanted hair from your body permanently or for a period. It is non-invasive treatment, which means it does not require any cuts to your skin.
Why Is Laser Hair Removal Done?
- Lasers help to remove unwanted hair from the face, chin, leg, back, arm, underarms, and other areas
- Laser hair removal benefits people with thick, dark hair
- Laser hair removal is safe and leaves the surrounding skin undamaged
- Each laser section takes a fraction of a second to remove multiple hairs simultaneously.
- Most patients have permanent hair removal after an average of three to seven sessions.
What Are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?
- Get smoother skin
- Makes your skin color and complexion more uniform
- Improves your self-image and self-confidence
- Save time, money, and aggravation by eliminating the need to shave or wax your face or body hair.
How Should You Prepare for Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal requires training and carries potential risks.
It is advised to go to an experienced medical professional trained in performing the procedure.
Your doctor will discuss the following details to check what kind of treatment suits you.
- Review your medical history, including the medicines you use, history of skin diseases, and past hair removal procedures
- Discuss the risks, benefits, and expectations of laser hair removal
- Take your photos to be used for before and after assessments
- Discuss a treatment plan and related costs, as laser hair removal is usually not pocket friendly.
Be cautious about salons, spas, or other non-medical personnel’s who offer hair removal treatments.
What Are the Precautions to Be Taken for Laser Hair Removal?
Here are the few precautions you should take while preparing for laser hair removal:
- Avoid sun exposure for six weeks before and after treatment.
- Avoid any skin creams that darken your skin.
- Limit plucking, waxing, and electrolysis (other method of hair removal) for six weeks before treatment.
- Ask your doctor about what medicines to be avoided before the procedure.
- Shave the area that will be treated two to three days before treatment.
What Happens During Laser Hair Removal Procedure?
- The removal process is done in a few sessions depending on the hair quality and quantity.
- For each session, special goggles are provided to protect your eyes from the laser beam.
- A cooling device or cool gel is used on the tip of the instrument, which protects your skin and reduces the risk of side effects.
- The doctor will use a hand-held laser instrument to your skin.
- The heat produced from the laser beam helps to inhibit hair growth. There will be mild discomfort like a warm pinprick, and you will feel a sensation of cold from the cooling device or gel.
- After the procedure, cool packs and creams are applied to prevent irritation.
What happens after laser hair removal?
Your skin might be swollen, red, and a little painful after laser hair removal. To reduce any discomfort, apply ice to the treated area. Avoid sunlight exposure to the treated area.
What Are the Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?
Side effects of laser hair removal include:
- Burns
- Blisters (bubble like elevation of the skin)
- Hyperpigmentation (Darker skin)
- Hypopigmentation (Lighter skin)
- Scars
- Infections
Who Should Not Go for Laser Hair Removal?
You may need to avoid the procedure if you:
- Are Pregnant
- Have Viral Infections
- You are taking certain medications or acne treatments
- Have raised scars
- Have or have had skin cancer