Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light to eliminate unwanted hair from any part of the body. This procedure, which works by focusing light beams on hair follicles and destroying them, is beneficial for people who are unhappy with shaving or waxing results.
People with light-colored skin and dark-colored hair benefit the most from laser hair removal, but it can help people of all skin types and tones.
You should refrain from shaving the area to be treated for three to eight days before the laser hair removal. You should also avoid bleaching, plucking, or waxing your hair for at least four to six weeks before the treatment.
Sun exposure should be avoided for six weeks before and after the treatment because laser hair removal is less efficient when exposed to the sun. In addition, you will be advised to stop taking herbs or light-sensitive medications for at least one day before the treatment.
The laser professional will apply a cold gel or a cooling cream to the skin to protect it and help alleviate the sting of the laser pulses. The laser machine will be adjusted to match the color, density, and location of the hair you are having removed, as well as the color of your skin.
During laser hair removal, the laser specialist points a hand-held laser device to your skin and directs a pulse of laser light to the targeted hair follicles. The heat generated by the laser beam will destroy the hair follicles, preventing future hair growth. The laser professional will then monitor the area exposed to the light pulse for several minutes to ensure that the settings are proper and that no undesirable reactions occur. Small areas can be treated in under a minute, and larger areas can take up to an hour.
For the initial few hours following laser hair removal, you may experience redness and swelling. To relieve any discomfort after the procedure, you can apply ice packs, cold water, or anti-inflammatory creams.
The treated area of your skin will appear and feel burnt for a day or two after the procedure, but you can apply moisturizers to help. Your treated hair will fall out over the next month.
Avoid sunlight and tanning beds for six weeks after laser hair removal and between regular treatments or as instructed by your doctor. To help prevent transitory changes in the color of the treated skin, use high-quality sunscreen SPF 70 when going outdoors for the next month.
Your next session is scheduled four to six weeks later, and you will continue to receive treatments until your hair stops growing.
Anyone can have laser hair removal, but the efficiency of laser hair removal varies depending on your hair and skin type. Laser hair removal is most effective on people with lighter complexions and darker hair.