An intense beam of light is focused on the hairy area of the body and the procedure is called laser hair removal. Though there are several other methods of hair removal like waxing and shaving, laser hair removal is very popular because the results are long-lasting. Yes, the procedure is spread across multiple sessions to achieve long-term results.
The laser light that is concentrated in a particular area destroys the hair follicle and hampers hair growth in that portion of the body. However, laser hair removal is not without risks. These can range from mild redness and swelling to more uncommon consequences such as skin darkening or lightening, herpes simplex, blistering, and scarring. Before scheduling your first visit, you should weigh all of the advantages and disadvantages carefully. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about laser hair removal.
While laser hair removal effectively inhibits hair growth over time, it rarely results in permanent hair removal. The procedure requires multiple sessions. It works best for people with light skin and dark hair, but it can be used on any skin type.
Types of Laser
Various lasers available are as follows:
- Diode laser: Ideal for candidates with a darker complexion, this kind of therapy enters deeper into the skin and causes less damage.
- Alexandrite laser: This type of laser is effective for eliminating light-coloured hair and penetrates deeper into the skin.
- Ruby lasers: In this method, artificial ruby crystals emit red light that is beneficial for those with lighter complexion and darker hair.
- BBL (Broadband Light) or IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): Various types of lasers available include Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or broadband light (BBL), which are high-intensity pulses of multicoloured light produced by a flash lamp. These can be applied to darker skin and cover larger areas of the body.
- Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd: YAG) laser: This laser is beneficial for people of all skin types, and enables better penetration with minimal skin damage.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
- Long-term Results: Though not permanent, the results of laser hair removal are long-lasting. The hair which grows after these sessions is scarce, lighter, and finer in texture.
- Less maintenance: Other methods of hair removal like waxing and shaving produce short-term results. In contrast, laser hair removal requires less maintenance and the frequency of repeat sessions is also much lower.
- Helpful to Deal with Other Skin Issues: Laser hair removal can also help with ingrown hairs, aggravated pimples, and itching. As it uses a beam of light to remove hair, cuts and burning sensations associated with shaving are avoided.
- Fast Recovery: Since it is a non-invasive procedure, there is no downtime associated with the therapy. You may experience little swelling or reddening of the area after the procedure. But you have to avoid going out in the sun immediately post-procedure.
- Saves Money: Although the initial cost of laser hair removal is high, the subsequent sessions are cheaper. Moreover, if you compare the recurring costs of shaving and waxing, you will find laser hair removal much cheaper.
- Eliminates Chances of Other Skin Diseases: It can lessen your risk of developing folliculitis, a skin disorder caused by irritated hair follicles.
Dangers and Adverse Effects of Laser Hair Removal
While laser hair removal has many advantages, it is not without risks and adverse effects. To avoid possibly undesirable side effects, it is recommended that you conduct research before deciding where to receive treatment.
The most common adverse effects include mild discomfort in the treatment area, such as redness, swelling, and blisters. These difficulties are rectified within a day or two.
The method has been demonstrated to be unsuccessful for weak, delicate hair, as well as white, grey, or red hairs. People having dark skin experience a higher chance of side effects.
What to Expect From The Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
It is recommended to visit a certified and experienced surgeon who will assess your skin type and suggest accordingly the type of laser that will suit you. The expert will study your medical report and condition (if you have any) followed by taking images of the area that needs treatment.
Avoid plucking and waxing for six weeks before your procedure. If you are having hair removed from an area where you routinely shave, leave a little stubble before the operation so that the laser has a good target without trapping excessive heat in the follicle.
During Procedure:
1) The expert will clean the area to remove any dead skin or excess oils.
2) Some people may be given a numbing gel 30 minutes before the procedure to overcome the discomfort. To reduce pain, your therapist may utilise a device that blows cool air into the treatment areas before administration.
3) The expert and patient have to wear eye protection during the treatment. This is an important safety precaution to protect your eyes from the laser’s brightness, which could otherwise cause harm.
4) Your doctor will pull the skin firm and hold the laser perpendicular to it. With gentle care and forceful pressure, the expert will move the laser against the skin to keep the hair follicles near the laser’s surface.
5) Now the medical professional will use laser pulses to vaporise the hair follicles. This can cause little plumes of smoke with a sulphur-like odour. You may feel some momentary discomfort during therapy.
After-Care
There could be some redness or swelling after the procedure. The medical practitioner will recommend applying topical creams to minimise the side effects. You will be advised to wear sunscreen as protective gear against the harmful UV rays of the sun.
Laser hair removal is a very popular cosmetic treatment and several individuals are seeking this therapy through an established and experienced medical provider.
