Is Laser Hair Removal Worth It?

Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular cosmetic treatments to remove unwanted hair. This article will go into the reasons people choose laser treatments, the pros, the cons, what to consider and expert advice to help you decide.

Why Do People Get Laser Hair Removal?

Convenience: Many people get laser hair removal treatment for convenience. Shaving, waxing and plucking can be time consuming and have to be done so often.

Cost Effective in the Long Run: Although the initial cost of laser hair removal is high, it can be cost effective in the long run compared to other hair removal methods.

Less Ingrown Hairs: Laser hair removal reduces ingrown hairs which can be painful and lead to infections.

Smoother Skin: Many people prefer the smoother skin result that laser hair removal gives compared to other methods.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal treatments uses a medical grade laser beam to destroy hair follicles. The laser targets the pigment in the hair follicles with concentrated light beams. Here’s a step by step breakdown:

The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) in the hair.

The absorbed light energy converts to heat, which travels down the hair shaft to the follicle.

The heat will destroy the follicle, impairs its ability to produce new hair. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth.

The laser can target coarse, dark hair while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged, making it a effective method for hair removal.

Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?

Laser hair removal is considered safe and effective for permanent hair removal when done by a qualified professional. However, like any medical or cosmetic treatment, it has its risks and considerations. Here’s a breakdown of the safety of laser hair removal.

FDA Approved

Regulated Technology: Laser hair removal devices are FDA approved and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for permanent hair reduction. This means the devices meet safety standards for effectiveness and minimal side effects.

Qualified Professionals

Licensed Technicians: Licensed and experienced dermatologist or laser technicians should perform laser hair removal. Proper training and certification ensures the technician knows how to use the equipment safely and effectively.

Minimal Side Effects

Common Reactions: The most common side effects are mild and temporary, redness, swelling, slight discomfort in the treated area. These usually resolve within a few hours to a few days.

Rare Complications: More severe side effects, blistering, scarring, changes in skin pigmentation are rare and usually occur due to improper technique or wrong laser settings for the skin type.

For All Skin Types

Technological Advancements: With advancements in laser technology, it’s now safer for people with more skin types. However, those with darker skin tones should look for clinics with lasers designed for their skin type to minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation or burns.

Pre-Treatment Consultation

Medical Review: A consultation will include a medical review of your history to identify any contraindications, such as medications or skin conditions that may increase side effects.

Patch Test: A patch test may be done to check for any reaction before full treatment.

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

Permanent Hair Reduction

Laser hair removal is a more permanent hair reduction than temporary methods like shaving and waxing. Many see significant hair reduction after a few treatments.

Precision

Lasers can target coarse, dark hair follicles and leave the surrounding skin undamaged. Ideal for small and delicate areas.

Speed

Each pulse of the laser is a fraction of a second and can treat multiple hairs at once. Clinicians can do laser hair removal on small areas like the upper lip in under a minute, larger areas like the back or legs can take up to an hour.

Less Pain Over Time

Does laser hair removal hurt? Yes, there is some discomfort but many find the pain decreases with each session as the hair becomes finer and sparser.

Cons of Laser Hair Removal

Multiple Treatments

You’ll need multiple sessions to see results, several weeks apart. This can be time consuming and requires commitment.

Cost

Laser hair removal is expensive upfront, $200 to $400 per session depending on the area and location.

Side Effects

Redness, swelling and discomfort to the surrounding tissue in the treated area. In rare cases blistering, scarring or changes in pigment of the affected skin.

Results Vary

Results depend on your hair and skin color. Best for people with medium to light skin tone and dark hair. Darker skin tone or light hair may need more sessions or may not get the same hair reduction. Sometimes grey hair can even grow back in the treated area.

If You’re Ready to Get Laser Hair Removal

Book a consultation with a dermatologist or licensed laser technician. They will evaluate your skin and hair type and give you personalized advice.

Avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds and certain skincare products before your treatment as they can increase side effects.

Talk to your provider about pain management options. Topical anaesthetics can help with the discomfort during the treatment.

Follow post treatment instructions carefully to minimize side effects and get the best results. This may include avoiding sun exposure, using soothing creams and not plucking or waxing between sessions.

What to Expect from Laser Hair Removal Treatment Sessions

Knowing what happens during a laser hair removal session can help you feel more comfortable and prepared. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during your first session and what you can expect in the sessions that follow.

First Laser Hair Removal Session

Initial Consultation:

Assessment: Before your first treatment, you’ll have a consultation with a qualified professional. They will evaluate your skin type, hair type and medical history to make sure you’re a good candidate for laser hair removal.

Patch Test: A patch test may be done on a small area of your skin to check for any reaction and determine the best laser settings for your skin and hair type.

Pre-Treatment Preparation:

Shaving the Area: The area should be shaved to a few millimetres above the skin surface 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. Shaving ensures the laser pulses can target the hair follicles without burning the hair above the skin’s surface.

Cleaning the Skin: Before starting, the technician will clean the treatment area to remove any oils, lotions or makeup.

During the Treatment:

Protective Gear: You and the technician will wear protective eyewear to protect your eyes from the laser light.

Application of Cooling Gel: A cooling gel may be applied to your skin to help with comfort and protect the outer skin layers.

Laser Application: The technician will use a handheld laser device to deliver pulses of light to the treatment area. You may feel a sensation like a rubber band snapping against your skin, but discomfort varies depending on individual pain tolerance and the area being treated.

Post-Treatment Care:

Soothing the Skin: After the session, a soothing cream or aloe vera gel may be applied to reduce redness and swelling.

Instructions: You’ll receive post-care instructions which may include avoiding sun exposure, hot showers and specific skincare products for a few days.

Subsequent Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Consistency:

Follow-Up Schedule: Sessions are usually scheduled 4 to 6 weeks apart to match the hair growth cycle. Consistency is key to getting the best results.

Multiple Treatments: Most people need 6 to 8 sessions to see significant hair reduction. Some areas may respond faster, others may take more sessions.

Treatment Experience:

Less Discomfort: As hair becomes finer and sparser, you may feel less discomfort when removing hair during subsequent sessions.

Shorter Sessions: Once the initial area is treated, follow-up sessions are usually quicker as there’s less laser hair removal work to be done.

Gradual Results:

Hair Reduction: You’ll see gradual hair reduction after each session. Hair that regrows will be finer and lighter.

Shedding Phase: After each session, treated hair will start to shed over the next few weeks. Don’t pluck or wax during this time.

Maintenance Treatments:

Long-Term Maintenance: Even after completing the initial series of treatments, some people may need maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months to keep skin smooth and hair-free.

Touch-Ups: Occasional touch-up sessions may be needed for areas where hair regrowth is more stubborn.

Dos and Don’ts for Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Laser hair removal can be permanent but following specific guidelines before and after treatment is key to getting the best results and minimizing side effects. Here are some important dos and don’ts to consider:

Dos - Laser Hair Removal

See a Professional: Always see a dermatologist or licensed laser technician. A professional consultation will determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.

Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions:

Shave the Area: Shave the treatment area 24 to 48 hours before your appointment so the laser can target the hair follicle.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Minimize sun exposure for at least two weeks before treatment and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Stop Using Certain Products: Discontinue products containing retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) a few days before the procedure as they can increase skin sensitivity.

Schedule Consistent Sessions: Attend all scheduled sessions as recommended by your provider to get the best results. Consistency is key to targeting hair during different growth cycles.

Moisturize Your Skin: Keep the treated area moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free lotion to soothe any irritation and keep skin healthy.

Wear Loose Clothing: After treatment, wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid friction and irritation on the treated area.

Use Cool Compresses: Apply cool compresses or aloe vera gel to the treated area to reduce redness, swelling or discomfort.

Don’ts - Laser Hair Removal

Avoid Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure for at least two weeks after treatment as the skin will be more sensitive and prone to damage. Use a high-SPF sunscreen if you have to be outdoors.

Don’t Wax, Pluck or Epilate: Don’t wax, pluck or use epilators between laser sessions as these remove the hair follicle making the laser treatment less effective. Shaving is the only recommended method of hair removal between sessions. You should also avoid chemical peels at all costs.

Don’t Use Tanning Beds or Fake Tan: Avoid tanning beds and fake tan products for at least two weeks before and after treatment to reduce the risk of skin discoloration and burns.

Don’t Apply Heavy Makeup or Skincare Products: Don’t apply heavy makeup, lotions or other skincare products on the sensitive skin immediately after the procedure. These can clog pores and cause irritation.

Don’t Scratch or Pick at the Treated Area: Don’t scratch, pick or rub the treated area to prevent irritation and potential scarring.

Avoid Hot Showers and Baths: For the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment avoid hot showers, baths, saunas and activities that cause excessive sweating as heat can irritate the skin.

Conclusion

Laser hair removal is a long term solution for those who wants permanent hair removal. It has advantages like long term results, precision and speed but also has disadvantages like cost, side effects and multiple sessions. Talk to a professional and get to know the process to have a smooth treatment.