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Because large areas of skin can be treated at once, laser hair removal is much faster than other techniques. Lasers work by sending low-energy beams through the skin, which is then absorbed by the melanin present in hair follicles. The treatment often has to be repeated simply because hair grows in cycles . however, with repeated applications, laser hair removal can permanently remove approximately eighty percent of unwanted hair.
There are several types of lasers used in laser hair removal: the ruby, the alexandrite, and the diode, which were the very first lasers approved for hair removal; and, more recently, the intense pulsed light, or IPL, systems. Intense pulsed light lasers generally work better on people who have dark hair and fair complexions, because the melanin in the skin surrounding the hair follicles cannot absorb the light given off by the IPL systems. People with darker coloring are treated by lasers which have longer wavelengths.
Before receiving laser hair removal, it is necessary to first consult a dermatologist, in order to receive an assessment, to better anticipate what kind of laser hair removal would be best and if indeed an individual is a candidate. Some of the things which have to be determined include: skin type and sensitivity, to know whether the patient tans or burns more easily; the color, location, and density of the hair; any previous attempts to remove unwanted hair; a complete medical history (specifically to look for ovarian or thyroid disorders; any presence or past history of scarring or the herpes simplex virus); and any medications the patient may be taking.
Following the assessment, the dermatologist and the patient can discuss the possibilities for treatment and, from there the patient may be instructed to take several preoperative precautions. For instance, patients about to receive laser hair removal should not tan themselves or indulging in any plucking, waxing, or electrolysis. In some cases, preventative antibiotics may be administered, as well as other medicinal precautions.
Precautions are always taken during the actual removal treatment to protect the patient.s skin . for example, most lasers are made with some kind of cooling device. Generally, at least three treatments must occur in order to permanently destroy unwanted hair. Research shows that it is easier to remove dark hair than shades of white, grey, or red.
Those who have experience laser hair removal say that it feels like a rubber band snapping their skin, or like warm pricks of pressure. While redness and swelling can be expected, there are topical creams and medications available and even ice packs will help. Avoidance of the sun and the use of sun screen are common precautions following laser hair removal.
Possible side-effects of laser hair removal are generally short-term. Patients may experience pain, swelling, and redness around the removal sights and blisters, outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus, and bacterial infections are also possible. However, any permanent changes in skin color or scarring are very rare. Laser hair removal may cause freckles to disappear, while moles and tattoos may undergo a lightening.
Depending on the location of the hair removed, a patient can expect that 10-25% of the unwanted body hair will return each time they undergo treatment. Whatever hair does return is usually lighter in color and much finer. Any areas where the skin is thinner . for example, under the arms and along the bikini line . tend to respond better than areas with thicker skin, such as the chin and the back. The process of laser hair removal is generally repeated every one to two months. You can also check our Facial Laser Hair Removal article, and our Laser Hair Removal Costs article.