Laser Hair Removal - Interesting Facts You Must Know

Laser hair treatment is becoming increasingly used for all areas of the body – face, chin, arms, and torso. It’s performed by plastic surgeons and can effectively reduce unwanted hair with the minimum of risk. The laser beam emits heat energy, and the light absorbed by the root damages the hair follicle making it unable to produce further hair - several treatments may be needed for long-term benefits. This article will tell you all you need to know about the procedure…

Frequently Asked Questions:

What Should I do before Treatment?

You need to stay out of the sun before your appointment – for at least four weeks! It’s a good idea to schedule your treatment during winter months. You’ll need to shave the area to be treated as waxing isn’t an option – you can’t have the treatment if you’ve recently waxed. A small patch test will be done before the treatment starts, and your appointment will last up to an hour.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Lasers can reduce the hair count by up to 80%, and after completing the initial treatments hair will grow back much thinner, and sometimes not at all. Surviving hairs often need touch-ups so for permanent hair removal, electrolysis, which removes each hair individually, is recommended.

Will hair grow back after laser hair removal?

You should see results after about three months as this time frame allows for dead hair shafts to fall out on their own. Some hair and skin types can be harder to treat than others, but the key is to be consistent with your treatment and the results can be great! You’ll get maximum hair reduction with the right laser and the right settings, but there’s no such thing as total hair removal.

What are the side effects of laser hair removal? - The 12 Things You Don’t want To Know!

Laser hair removal burns may occur in patients with darker skin, as the pigment absorbs the laser more easily – in most instances burns are very mild. The laser may cause a darkening of the skin due to the production of melanin, or a lightening of the skin caused by a loss of pigment. Eye injuries only happen if your eyes are unprotected during the treatment, and itching is a normal side effect. Other normal reactions include numbness, tingling, and pain around the site. Red skin and swelling around the follicle can happen, and the treatment can cause crusting and scabs. A rare side effect of laser hair removal is infection, so you must keep the area clean after the procedure.

Is laser hair removal painful?

Your treatment may be uncomfortable but you’ll be given tinted safety goggles to wear to protect your eyes. If the treatment does become painful you’ll be offered a numbing lotion to put on beforehand to help. You’ll need to read reviews and thoroughly research the clinic and the staff to ensure the technicians are qualified, and the salon immaculately clean. Dermatologists, medical spas, and salons can all offer laser hair removal so make sure they’ve got years of experience, and perform these procedures on a daily basis.

Contributor: Savana Urban Spa - Professional Laser Hair Removal in Notting Hill