Laser Hair Removal is a safe, effective way to reduce unwanted hair on the body. The heat from the laser destroys the hair follicle, so it can’t grow back.
It usually takes 2 to 6 treatments for results that last a few months or years before some hair regrows. The hair that does grow back tends to be lighter and finer. Read on IPL Vancouver for more information.
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated light technology to prevent the growth of unwanted body hair. It’s one of the most popular nonsurgical aesthetic treatments performed in the United States. The laser equipment used in this procedure is vigorously regulated by the FDA. It’s important to make sure that you get your laser treatment from a licensed doctor or technician who is trained in laser hair removal.
During laser hair removal, the laser’s light is absorbed by pigment in the hair, which causes it to heat up. This damages the hair follicle and destroys it. The destroyed follicle cannot produce new hair and will eventually fall out. It may take several sessions to achieve the desired results.
Before the laser treatment, you’ll be given protective goggles to wear. Your skin will be thoroughly cleaned and numbing cream might be applied to the treatment area. Before the laser begins, it’s important to avoid tanning or sun exposure for a few days. Laser hair removal doesn’t work well on tanned skin. Also, avoid waxing and tweezing the area before your appointment. You should also avoid taking aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications that might increase bleeding.
During the laser hair removal process, you’ll experience some discomfort, but it varies from person to person. Some people describe it as a series of stings, while others say it feels similar to a rubber band snapping against their skin or a sunburn. You might also notice a sulfurous smell from the smoke that rises as the hair is burned off by the laser’s heat. The procedure might last a few minutes or up to an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area.
When the laser treatment is finished, the treated area might be red and swollen. You’ll have to use a cold compress and avoid exposing the skin to sunlight, especially between treatment sessions. Your doctor might recommend a topical steroid cream to reduce the pain and swelling, too. You can expect hair to regrow, but it’ll be thinner and lighter in color than before. Typically, it takes two to six treatments to achieve the desired results.
How does it work?
Laser hair removal uses light-based technology to damage the pigment cells of a hair follicle. When these cells are damaged, the follicle can no longer produce new hair. This will delay hair growth, and eventually stop it altogether. The procedure is typically done over two to six sessions and may require maintenance treatments.
Before your laser hair removal appointment, you should shave the area to be treated. You should also avoid plucking, waxing, and electrolysis in the treatment area. These hair-removal methods remove the surface of the skin, but they don’t reach the root of the hair follicle. You should also skip sunless skin creams that darken the skin, as they can interfere with laser treatment.
During your laser treatment, the technician will protect your eyes with goggles and might apply a topical anesthetic to reduce pain. They will then adjust the laser equipment to the color, thickness, and location of the hair in the treatment area. The light beam is then pulsed into the treatment area, and the heat from the laser destroys the hair follicle. This prevents the follicle from growing hair, and it may even cause it to die.
After your laser treatment, you might notice redness and swelling. You might also smell smoke and see a small amount of hair falling out of the follicle. This is normal, and it usually looks like a mild sunburn. You should avoid direct sunlight on the treatment area, but you can use a sun block that is safe for your skin type.
You might need multiple laser hair removal treatments to achieve the desired results. Most people find that they need between three and eight sessions to permanently reduce the number of unwanted hair follicles. You might need a touch-up session once or twice a year to maintain the results.
The light from the laser penetrates the skin to target melanin, which is the pigment that gives hair its color. This damage to the melanin in the hair follicle stops it from producing new hair. You might also have less overall hair growth.
Where can it be done?
For men and women tired of shaving, waxing, or tweezing, laser hair removal offers an effective, safe, and permanent solution. The cosmetic procedure reduces or eliminates unwanted hair and makes skin look smooth and toned. It can be used on the face, neck, arms, legs, chest, and back. It also can treat saggy or patchy areas of skin, such as those caused by acne or sun damage. The dermatologists at Spring Street Dermatology in New York City can customize a treatment plan to address your unique needs.
Laser hair removal works best on people with light skin complexions and dark hair, because the contrast between skin and hair color allows the laser to easily target the hair follicle without damaging surrounding tissue. However, recent advancements in laser technology have made it possible for patients of all skin tones and hair colors to achieve beautiful and permanent results from the treatment.
During your consultation, the team at Spring Street Dermatology will take into account your skin type, hair color, and lifestyle to design a personalized laser hair removal treatment program. They will recommend that you shave the day before your treatment session, as this will allow for the hair follicle to absorb the energy from the laser without causing any damage or burning to the skin. They will also explain the importance of following their after-treatment instructions to minimize any side effects.
Before your treatment, the medical provider will apply a topical anesthetic to minimize any discomfort or pain. You will then be asked to put on a pair of goggles or eye shields to protect your eyes from the laser’s light beam as it passes over your skin. You will feel a slight sensation, similar to the feeling of a rubber band snapping against your skin, while the laser is being used.
Depending on the area being treated, you will need to come in for multiple laser hair removal treatments. For fast-growing areas, such as the upper lip or armpits, you may need to come in every four to eight weeks. For other areas that grow hair more slowly, such as the back or legs, you will likely need to come in every 12 to 16 weeks.
How much does it cost?
Laser Hair Removal is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair from any part of your body. It works by targeting the pigment (color) of your hair, which is then destroyed by the light that’s emitted from the laser. This results in your hair follicles no longer producing new hair, leaving you with smooth and hairless skin. Whether you want to remove hair from your armpits, legs, or bikini area, it’s a great alternative to shaving and waxing. The first step is to schedule a consultation with a trained and certified laser technician or dermatologist. They can help you determine if the procedure is right for you and discuss costs.
The procedure itself can last from a few minutes to an hour depending on the area of your body that’s being treated. Before the procedure begins, a cooling gel may be applied to protect the surface of your skin. Then, the laser device will be adjusted to fit your specific skin and hair color. You’ll be given protective eyewear to wear during the treatment session. Then, the technician will pulse the laser over the desired area, focusing on the areas of thicker, darker hair. The pulses of light are very quick and only take a fraction of a second, which helps minimize any discomfort you might experience during the procedure.
After a few sessions, you should begin to notice the results of your laser hair removal. Your hair should grow back less and be finer, allowing you to enjoy smooth and beautiful skin. You should stick with the recommended schedule of sessions in four to six week intervals for the best results.
While the cost of laser hair removal varies significantly by region, there are some average prices to keep in mind. This can help you budget for this cosmetic procedure, so that you can achieve your goal of hair-free skin without going into debt.
Remember that laser hair removal is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not typically covered by health insurance. However, it can be a good use of your flexible spending account or health savings account (HSA). It’s important to consult with your healthcare professional and insurance company for guidance before undergoing this procedure.