Farewell to Unwanted Hair: Laser Technology for Permanent Hair Removal
Laser hair removal can save time and eliminate irritation caused by shaving, waxing and plucking unwanted body hair, says our Dermatologist.
However, laser hair removal isn’t permanent; hair may still grow back after multiple treatments and results vary according to person.
It is permanent hair reduction
Laser hair removal can quickly and safely rid yourself of unwanted body hair, eliminating time spent shaving, waxing or using depilatories. When performed by a qualified practitioner it should be safe for most individuals; however scarring can occur as an unexpected side effect for certain individuals.
Laser treatments work by emitting a light beam which is absorbed by melanin in hair follicles, then converted to heat by it, thus dissolving them. However, prior to entering a laser session it is wise not to get too tanned as this may confuse the laser and lead to ineffective results.
Pregnancy or taking medications such as retinoid or Accutane could preclude laser hair removal treatments, so it’s wise to discuss this matter with your physician beforehand. As laser permanent hair removal can potentially damage skin if performed incorrectly, only allow qualified practitioners to perform it – good practitioners will ask plenty of questions and conduct an assessment prior to performing treatment.
It’s safe
Laser hair removal treatments are generally safe. Patients must ensure they properly prepare the area prior to receiving laser hair removal by not using sunless skin creams, tanning beds, waxing or plucking prior to treatment and taking blood-thinning or anti-inflammatory drugs in the days leading up to treatment.
Based on the area being treated, laser treatments may last anywhere between several minutes and an hour. A laser emits pulses of light energy that penetrates hair follicle pigment, damaging and vaporizing it resulting in an aroma or something similar.
Full body laser hair removal cost isn’t much but the procedure may cause redness and swelling, though this usually does not linger for too long. Following laser treatment it is also important to avoid exposure to sunlight for at least 48 hours afterward as instructed by your dermatologist for aftercare care. Any persistent issues should also be reported to a medical provider immediately – patients planning pregnancy should avoid laser hair removal procedures as this may have detrimental effects on fertility.
It’s quick
Laser hair removal, says our celebrity dermatologist in Mumbai, is fast, painless and one of the quickest ways to eliminate unwanted hair. While thicker hair may take more time to be removed from your skin, overall laser removal remains one of the fastest methods available to you for removing unwanted follicles.
For optimal results, it is recommended that you shave 24 hours prior to a laser appointment in the area you intend on treating. This creates contrast between your skin tone and hair color which will allow the laser to target its intended follicles more accurately. It is also wise to avoid creams that darken skin as this will create less contrast making laser treatments less efficient.
After treatment, you may experience redness or swelling; this should subside within several hours. Applying a cool compress can ease any discomfort; be sure to moisturize the area as it is likely sensitive. Scarring is unlikely; however it could occur with inexperienced practitioners or inadequate skin care practices.
It’s effective
Laser hair removal has proven itself one of the most successful means for eliminating unwanted body hair. Light reflected from hair follicles is absorbed by pigment in the skin and converted into heat that destroys them, stopping their future hair growth as well as helping prevent scars from previous growth and ingrown hairs from reappearing.
Laser hair removal patients may experience some post-treatment discomfort that resembles mild sunburn, but should subside within hours or so. A dermatologist may apply topical steroid cream directly onto the affected area.
Conclusion
Before having laser hair removal treatments, it’s essential that women refrain from waxing, tweezing or plucking their hair in the weeks leading up to their appointment. In addition, natural or artificial tanning may lead to burns that impede effectiveness. Furthermore, pregnant women and those taking certain medications (retinoids or Accutane) should avoid laser treatments.
