Is it really permanent?
In short, no. Laser hair removal works by heating the hair follicles to stop new hairs from growing. This puts the hair follicles in a state of dormancy for a long period of time — much longer than with shaving and waxing. When the hairs do grow back, they’ll be lighter, finer, and fewer in number.
Although the procedure is often touted as a form of “permanent” hair removal, laser treatment only reduces the number of unwanted hairs in a given area. It doesn’t get rid of unwanted hairs completely.
According to the Mayo Clinic, this hair removal option tends to work best in people with light skin tones and darker hair. Also, for best results, the American Association of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that a board-certified dermatologist perform the procedure.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser therapy uses high-heat laser beams as a mild form of radiation. During the process, these laser beams heat up and damage your hair follicles.
Your hair follicles are located just below the skin. They’re responsible for producing new strands of hair. If the follicles are destroyed, then hair production is temporarily disabled.
By contrast, tweezing, shaving, and waxing all remove hair above the surface. These methods don’t target hair-producing follicles.
The AAD deems the following areas as appropriate for laser hair removal:
- chest
- back
- shoulders
- neck
- bikini line
- face (except for the eye area)
This form of hair removal works best with darker hair colors on light skin tones. This is because the lasers target hair melanin (color). Even if some hairs aren’t removed, the lightening of their color can reduce the appearance of hair on the skin.
Some of your hairs may also shed within a few days of your first treatment session.
Overall, laser hair removal is a relatively quick process. Smaller areas, such as the upper lip, can take just minutes. Larger areas of hair removal, like the back or chest, may take an hour or longer.
If your dermatologist applies a topical pain-relieving gel (anesthetic) first, you may expect to be at the office up to another full hour.
Despite the high success rate of laser hair removal, hair follicles eventually heal. This results in new hair production. To ensure the best results possible, you will need to undergo multiple treatment sessions.
Understanding the Laser Hair Removal Process
Before we explore post-treatment care, it’s crucial to understand how laser hair removal works. This process involves targeting hair follicles with concentrated light, inhibiting the ability of the hair to grow back. It’s a transformative procedure, but it’s essential to set realistic expectations.
Immediately after a laser hair removal session, it’s normal to experience redness and swelling. These are temporary effects that typically subside within a few hours to a day. Additionally, you might notice changes in the texture of the treated hair. It could become finer or appear to grow slower. For a smooth post-treatment experience, it’s essential to stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure, and follow your technician’s recommendations for skincare.
Does Hair Grow Back After Laser?
The aim of laser hair removal is not complete hair removal but rather permanent hair reduction. While many individuals experience a significant decrease in hair growth, some regrowth may occur over time. Factors such as hormonal changes and genetics can influence the extent of regrowth.
Understanding Laser Treatment Aftercare
Do not pull out hairs following a laser hair removal treatment. Laser hair removal targets hair follicles to remove hair from the body permanently. Therefore, the follicle has to be visible in the body area. All the classic methods of at-home hair removal, such as threading, waxing, or epilating, remove the hair follicle’s root. This impacts the treatment as the laser removal won’t be successful if there isn’t any hair to target. These technique can also be harsh on the treated skin and may increase the risk of irritation or complications.
The only acceptable method is shaving the body area to be treated 24h before the appointment.
Why You Shouldn’t Pull Hair After Treatment
Following your laser hair removal London, treatments that pick up hairs and pull them out disrupt the cycle of hair growth. Removing hairs before they die itself will stimulate their growth, and they will appear again. This is because when the hairs are pulled from the root, our body, to support regrowth, supplies additional blood to the root.
Laser hair removal targets the opposite results. The laser aims at the roots of the hair follicles to make them thinner, and to achieve that has to reduce the blood supply, meaning that with continuous treatment the hair will disappear permanently.
Using tweezers would counteract the laser hair treatment and render future treatments less effective as the hair growth has been disrupted again.
Be patient with the treated area, and after a few weeks the hairs will fall out without further provoking. For best results, leaving the treated area(s) alone is recommended as the targeted hairs will complete their growth cycle, shed, and because the follicle has been destroyed, there will be no regrowth.
Laser Hair Removal at Home
Post-treatment care is paramount. Avoid shaving immediately after the procedure and allow your skin some time to recover. The timing of shaving post laser hair removal varies. Typically, it’s safe to resume shaving a few days after the treatment. However, it’s crucial to pay attention to your skin’s response. If there is any lingering irritation or redness, it’s advisable to postpone shaving until your skin has fully recovered.
When you decide it’s time to reintroduce shaving, it’s crucial to do so gently. Opt for a fresh, sharp razor to minimise irritation. Consider using a soothing shaving cream or gel, and avoid applying excessive pressure. Taking these precautions ensures a smooth shaving experience without compromising the benefits of laser hair removal.
Beyond shaving, maintaining overall skin health is vital post laser hair removal. Hydration is key, so be sure to moisturise regularly. Additionally, protect your treated skin from the sun by using sunscreen. These simple steps contribute to a healthier, more comfortable post-treatment period.
Laser Hair Removal Near Me
Are you tired of constantly shaving, waxing, or plucking unwanted hair? Laser hair removal may be the solution you’ve been looking for. This popular cosmetic procedure uses concentrated beams of light to target and destroy hair follicles, resulting in long-lasting hair reduction. If you’re considering laser hair removal, you may be wondering, “Where can I find laser hair removal near me?” Here, we’ll explore the details of laser hair removal and provide information on finding a reputable provider in your area.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal works by targeting the pigment in hair follicles. The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, heating up and damaging the follicle. This process inhibits future hair growth, resulting in smooth, hair-free skin. Laser hair removal is most effective on individuals with dark hair and light skin, as the contrast between the hair and skin makes it easier for the laser to target the follicles.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
- Long-lasting results
- Reduced hair growth over time
- Minimal discomfort during treatment
- No downtime required
- Safe and effective for most skin types
Finding Laser Hair Removal Near Me
When searching for laser hair removal providers in your area, it’s important to choose a reputable clinic with experienced professionals. Here are some tips for finding laser hair removal near you:
- Ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have undergone laser hair removal. Research online reviews and ratings for local clinics. Schedule consultations with multiple providers to discuss your treatment goals and assess their expertise. Inquire about the type of laser technology used and the experience of the staff performing the treatments. Cost of Laser Hair Removal
The cost of laser hair removal can vary depending on the size of the treatment area, the number of sessions required, and the location of the clinic. On average, laser hair removal sessions can range from $100 to $500 per session. Many clinics also offer package deals for multiple sessions, which can help reduce the overall cost of treatment.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that offers long-lasting results and minimal discomfort. By following these tips for finding laser hair removal near you, you can ensure a safe and effective treatment experience. Say goodbye to unwanted hair and hello to smooth, hair-free skin with laser hair removal.
