Laser hair removal has become a common way to permanently reduce unwanted hair on the body or face. Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that is performed multiple times on an area to stop the growth of hair from the follicles. Laser hair removal is typically performed on areas, such as the face, legs, underarms, bikini line, arms, chest and back.
Features
Laser hair removal works by beaming a laser, or high-energy light, onto the area of unwanted hair. The laser is absorbed by the pigmented skin in the hair follicle, where melanin is found, which causes the follicle to become inflamed and stop producing hair. Usually three or four laser hair removal sessions about six to eight weeks apart are needed to stop the cycles of hair growth and permanently stop hair from returning.
Types
Laser hair removal can be performed anywhere on the body where there is unwanted hair. The procedure usually works best on people with light skin and dark hair because if there is a lot of pigment, or melanin, in the skin outside the follicles, the skin may absorb the laser beam as well and become damaged. However, there are now different types of lasers, including intense pulsed light systems for light skin and Nd:YAG lasers for darker skin.
Considerations
Laser hair treatment works best on areas with no tattoos, no tan and no moles. People who have a history of scarring, thyroid disease or cold sores in the area to be treated are at risk for complications after the procedure so should consult their physician first. Laser hair removal candidates should not pluck, wax or undergo electrolysis before the procedure, although you can shave a day or two before the treatment.
Effects
Laser hair removal commonly causes moderate discomfort, swelling and redness that may last the first few days after the procedure. Outbreaks of herpes simplex, blistering, bacterial infections, darkening or lightening of tattoos and moles and temporary changes in skin tone may also occur. Less commonly, laser hair removal can cause burns on the skin and permanent lightening or darkening of skin pigment. Laser hair removal results vary from person to person, and some people may still have hair, but it will be thinner and lighter.
Benefits
Laser hair removal treatment permanently reduces hair and is cost-effective because the laser can be used to treat large areas of hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, each laser treatment reduces hair growth about 10 to 25 percent. Although the treatment usually needs to be performed a few times to produce permanent results, laser hair removal can save time and money in the long run by eliminating the need to shave, wax and buy new razors and hair depilatories.
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