Laser hair treatment involves the use of concentrated light to remove unwanted hair from the body. The heat from the laser destroys the hair follicles and prevents regrowth. You can have laser hair treatments done anywhere on your body. Laser hair removal works best with lighter skin tones and darker hair.
Types
The underarms, bikini line and legs are the areas of the body that women usually wish to get rid of unwanted hair. But laser treatments also can cover large areas and anywhere on the body that you have unwanted hair growth.
Procedure
You should not wax or tweeze hair prior to the appointment. However, you can shave the affected site. The area must not be tanned, because this causes skin discoloration. During the appointment, the area will be cleaned and a topical painkiller applied. Goggles must be worn to protect your eyes from the laser's light. You might feel some discomfort during the procedure. The length of the procedure depends on the size of the area being treated.
Time Frame
You are not likely to experience lasting results from a single laser hair removal treatment. Expect six to eight treatments, scheduled every couple of months apart. The more sessions that you have, the longer the results will last. Keep in mind that laser hair treatments do not always stop growth permanently. The Mayo Clinic estimates that laser hair treatments can eliminate hair counts by 20 percent to 90 percent.
Considerations
Electrolysis is typically recommended for individuals with fair hair. It involves the use of electrical currents to destroy hair follicles and can be performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Warning
You might feel some pain and stinging after laser hair treatment. Redness and swelling at the site are also common. Notify your doctor is you start to feel severe pain or notice blistering and burn marks at the site.
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