Individuals that do not enjoy waxing, shaving, and tweezing as a routine process to remove unwanted hair should consider laser hair removal. This is a widely accepted cosmetic procedure that uses highly concentrated beams of light to remove hair.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
This is an effective process for removing unwanted hair from the bikini line, face, arms, legs, underarms, and several other areas.
One of the more beneficial aspects of laser hair removal is the quality and precision of removal. The lasers are used to specifically target course hair while avoiding any surrounding skin.
The speed of the procedure is also considerably beneficial. One pulse of the laser only requires a fraction of a second. More importantly, one pulse of the laser is used to remove several hairs simultaneously. The laser is capable of treating an area the size of a quarter within one second. In most cases, smaller areas such as the chin and upper lip are treated in less than 60 seconds. However, larger areas such as the arms or back can require an hour.
The results of the laser hair removal process are extremely predictable. According to Wikipedia, more than 90 percent of patients that receive the treatment experience permanent hair loss after an average of five to seven sessions.
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal
This hair removal process involves more than simply ”zapping” the undesired hair. This is a cosmetic procedure that has a few potential risks and requires professional training. Prior to receiving laser hair removal, it is important to carefully check the credentials of the technician or health care provider performing the procedure.
According to Laser Gentle Medical Spa, individuals considering this procedure should avoid waxing, plucking, and tweezing for at least six weeks prior to the treatment. This is primarily a result of the lasers targeting the roots where the hair grows. Waxing and plucking temporarily remove these roots.
It is also important to avoid excess exposure to the sun for at least six weeks. In some cases, excess exposure to the sun can make the results of laser hair removal ineffective and increase the probability of complications after the treatment.
What to Expect During The Procedure
Immediately before the procedure, any hair receiving treatment will be clipped to a couple of millimeters above the surface of the skin. The technician will adjust the laser equipment according to the location, color, and thickness of the hair receiving treatment. The equipment will also receive adjustments for skin color.
To protect the surrounding layers of skin, the technician will apply a cooling device or a cold gel to the skin. These items will allow the laser to penetrate the skin. Next, the technician will use a pulse of light to treat a specific area. The technician will then observe the area for a few minutes to check for adverse reactions and ensure the correct settings were used.
After the procedure is completed, the technician will provide lotions, ice packs, and anti-inflammatory creams to help relieve discomfort. The next session is generally scheduled four to six weeks later. Most patients receive treatment until the hair no longer grows in the treated area. According to WebMD, the cost of the procedure can range from $150 to $500 and depends on the number of required sessions.
It is important to remember that the pain involved with this procedure can vary from person-to-person. Many patients describe laser hair removal as a feeling similar to the light pop of a rubber band or a mild pinch. The amount of pain can also depend on the area receiving treatment. Certain parts of the body are more sensitive than others.
Overall, laser hair removal is an effective procedure for removing ingrown and unwanted hairs. This process is more effective than waxing, shaving, and plucking. The results offer long term benefits and the hair rarely grows back. This is a great procedure for anyone that desires to remove unwanted hair.
