Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a powerful, effervescent beam of light to remove unwanted body hair. Laser hair removal is commonly performed on the legs, under the arms, on the upper chin and along the bikini line, according to the Mayo Clinic. Before you undergo laser therapy, there are certain things you must do to prepare for the treatment. There are also a number of guidelines to help you recover from the procedure.
Effects
Laser hair removal works by sending light at differing wavelengths. According to the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide, the light is soaked up by melanin--the pigment in hair follicles where hair growth begins--and heat is produced. The heat instantly destroys the hair follicle without harming the surrounding skin.
Preparation
Do not remove the root of the unwanted hair for one month before your scheduled laser treatment, advises Skinsight, a health information website. This means no waxing, plucking or electrolysis. You may trim, shave or bleach your hair. Skinsight advises that once you know will be undergoing laser hair removal, you should not use tanning booths or sit out in the sun. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent your skin from tanning.
Procedure
As your laser hair removal therapy begins, you will be given goggles to protect your eyes from accidental exposure to the laser light. Your health practitioner will depress a hand-held laser instrument on your skin. When the laser is activated, you may notice a stinging feeling as its light moves through your skin's surface to the hair follicles. You may smell singed hair, which is expected. The length of the laser hair removal procedure can vary. A small area--such as your chin or upper lip--may only take a few minutes.
Aftercare
Following laser hair removal there may be redness, swelling and stinging for the first several hours. Skinsight says you can gently wash the treated area with a mild soap but do not scrub the skin. Avoid sun exposure for several weeks after treatment. Following this protective period, always wear sunscreen when you go out in the sun.
Side Effects
Common side effects of laser therapy include temporary darkening or lightening of the skin and crusting or scabbing, notes the Mayo Clinic. In rare cases blistering, scarring and changes to the texture of skin may occur. When new hair eventually grows in, it may be lighter in color or finer than before the treatment.
Outlook
Laser hair removal doesn't mean your hair will never return, but the Mayo Clinic says the treated area can remain hairless for a number of months to several years. Skinsight says several treatments may be needed to achieve an extended hair-free period.
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