The removal of facial hair through laser treatment appeals to men and women alike. Women tired of plucking, bleaching and waxing dark facial hair turn to laser therapy out of an intense desire to eliminate what society deems as unfitting for a woman. Although men have society's blessing to grow facial hair, many find it a nuisance to get rid of unwanted facial hair on a daily basis. Regardless of your motivation, laser hair removal is one option to rid yourself of unwanted hair.
Process
Laser therapy directs an intense beam of invisible light directly into the hair follicle. According to dermatologist Philippe Abimelec, the pigment cells of the follicle absorb the light and transform it into heat, which destroys the existing hair and damages the follicle, rendering it unlikely to produce new hair. The procedure causes minimal pain, which most patients describe as a stinging sensation.
Candidates
Light-skinned people with dark hair make the best candidates for laser hair removal. Because the laser works by attacking the melanin in the hair, darker hairs respond more favorably to treatment. Dark skin also attracts the intensity of the laser, which may result in unwanted pigment changes in the skin. People with dark skin may qualify for treatment if special precautions are taken. White, gray and blond hairs do not respond well to treatment as of 2010, but strides continue toward that goal.
Cost
According to the American Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the average laser session costs $388, as of 2010. Cost varies according to skin type, hair growth and treatment area. Note, however, that the reported average cost only pertains to one session. It can take several treatments to achieve long-term hair removal with a laser, and maintenance sessions are common.
Results
Although laser therapy results in long periods of non-growth and may cease growth altogether, permanent removal of hair eludes some people. Patients of laser therapy notice an increasing duration of time that they can go between treatments. After the first treatment, hair grows back within four to six weeks. After several treatments, however, growth slows and skin may stay smooth for six months or longer. The amount of regrowth lessens with every treatment as does the diameter and thickness of the hair.
Complications
According to MayoClinic.com, the most common side effects associated with laser hair removal include mild skin irritations and temporary or permanent pigment changes in the skin. Rarely, lasers cause blistering, scarring and changes in skin texture.
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