The process of laser hair removal consists of killing the hair follicle by beaming a laser into the skin. This process slows hair growth or eliminates it all together. The laser beam is absorbed into the dark pigment of the hair, which is why this treatment works best on brown or black hair. Laser hair removal is generally used on legs, backs, underarms, the face, bikini area and anywhere else you have unwanted hair. It is important to note the risks of the procedure.
Regrowth
While the rates and percentages of hair regrowth has not been formally established, the total amount of regrowth can vary from person to person. It is possible that your hair may grow back at a faster pace than you would like or that the treatment will have no effect whatsoever on certain sections of your hair.
Hyperpigmentation
In some cases, the laser hair removal treatments may result in hyperpigmentation, which is increased melanin production. According to the Mayo Clinic, hyperpigmentation is especially prevalent in patients who have darker skin tones. When hyperpigmentation occurs, the skin that was treated will get darker as if you've been tanning. The darkening is usually temporary and will reverse itself within a few days. If the darkening does not go away, you should contact your physician.
Hypopigmentation
According to Dermnet NZ, patients who are dark-skinned are at an increased risk to develop hypopigmentation, which is the lightening of the skin. This happens when the energy from the laser slows or stops the skins melanin production. Unlike hyperpigmentation, if the patient experiences lightened skin, it will not be reversible.
Discomfort
When the laser begins to hit the hair follicle, you may feel a stinging sensation. Most people describe the sensation as a rubber band being pulled and snapped against the skin. An over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help when taken before the procedure. For patients who are extremely sensitive to pain, ask the doctor to use a local topical anesthetic. This will numb the area to be treated, minimizing the pain that you'll feel.
After-Effects
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the potential after-effects of laser hair removal include crusting of the skin, redness, blistering and swelling. While these effects can be uncomfortable, they are usually temporary. Your skin will be very sensitive after the procedure and should be treated carefully. For the first 24 hours after the procedure, you should keep your skin cool. When bathing, you should wash the area lightly and avoid scrubbing for several weeks.
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