LASER HAIR REMOVAL
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair.
During laser hair removal, a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages the hair follicles. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth.
Laser hair removal delays hair growth for long periods. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well. The number of sessions depends on the density of hair, color, etc.
WHY IT’S DONE ?
Laser hair removal is used to reduce unwanted hair. Common treatment locations include legs, armpits, upper lip, & chin.
Laser hair removal isn’t recommended for eyelids, eyebrows or surrounding areas, due to the possibility of eye injury.
WHAT TO EXPECT ?
Laser hair removal usually requires a series of two to six treatments. The interval between treatments will vary depending on the location. On areas where hair grows quickly, such as the upper lip, the treatment might be repeated in four to eight weeks. On areas of slow hair growth, such as the back, the treatment might be every 3 to 6 months.
DURING THE PROCEDURE
The dermatologist will press the laser probe to your skin. Depending on the type of laser, a cooling device on the tip of the instrument or a cool gel might be used to protect your skin and lessen the risk of side effects.
The laser beam will pass through your skin to the hair follicles. The intense heat from the laser beam damages the hair follicles, which inhibits hair growth. You might feel discomfort, such as a warm pinprick, and you’ll likely feel a sensation of cold from the cooling device or gel.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ?
Treating a small area, such as the upper lip, might take only a few minutes. Treating a larger area, such as the back, might take more than an hour.
RESULTS
Hairs don’t fall out immediately, but you will shed them over a period of few days to weeks. The repeated treatments are usually necessary because hair growth and loss naturally occur in a cycle, and laser treatment works best with hair follicles in the new-growth stage.
Results vary significantly and are difficult to predict. Most people experience hair removal that lasts several months, and it might last for years. When hair regrows, it’s usually finer and lighter in color. Thus, multiple sessions are required for permanent hair removal/reduction. Depending on the density of hair, you may need maintenance laser treatments for long-term hair reduction.
