Have you ever wanted to have blonde hair? Blondes have more fun, right? Well, maybe not. But if you’ve always dreamed of having blonde hair, you’re in luck! We’ve got the solution for you. If you’re ready to try out a new look, then we can help. Our laser hair removal service offers safe and effective treatment for getting rid of unwanted hair from your head, face or body.
We know what it’s like to want something so badly but not be able to make it happen because of how expensive it is or how risky it seems. That’s why we offer our services at an affordable price and with a guarantee that we’ll get rid of all your unwanted hair completely and permanently—no matter where it is on your body.
Read on to learn more ABOUT Laser For Blonde Hair, Laser Treatment For Blemishes Cost and What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Laser For Blonde Hair
The core concept behind laser hair removal is the color contrast between skin and hair. Since the laser targets the pigment in the hair, the sharper the contrast, the better. Thus, ideal candidates for laser hair removal thus are people with fair skin and dark hair. Although, modern laser hair removal technology now allow to treat tanned and darker skins. However, what about blonde hair? Can you undergo laser hair removal if you are blonde? Does laser hair removal work on blonde hair?
Does Laser Hair Removal Work on Blonde Hair?
1. How Does Laser Hair Removal Works?
Contrary to electrolysis which has been around for more than a hundred years, laser hair removal is a fairly new permanent hair removal method. Laser is very safe and more affordable than most may think. The method uses a laser that produces a beam of light energy. This energy will target pigments in the hair to reach the hair follicle. When damaging the hair follicle, the laser energy will actually cauterizing the blood vessel feeding the hair matrix. No blood, no fuel, no hair growth.
Laser treatments needs two essential things to work. Number one is hair in the catagen phase of the hair growth cycle. Indeed, the catagen phase is the only time when the hair and the follicle connect. The hair acts as a conduit, driving the heat to the hair follicle. In the other two phases, the hair is separated from the follicle. Thus, the heat can’t make it to the follicle. The second key element in the procedure is pigment. The laser targets pigments in the hair.
Laser hair removal is a long-term hair growth reduction method . Indeed, the FDA does not categorize laser treatments as permanent hair removal methods. Laser hair removal requires several treatments. Patients usually notice slower hair growth and weaker hair a few weeks after the first or second treatment. The number of treatments depends on the patient’s skin and hair tones, the medical provider’s expertise, the laser device used, and the hair growth cycle. The hair growth cycle has three phases: Anagen. In this phase, the hair is active and growing. Catagen. In this phase, hair growth is inhibited.
There are various hair types, and the type of hair you have will largely determine the effectiveness of your treatment. Laser hair removal for thick hair is often the most effective, as it is easier for the laser to target the melanin in the hair and destroy the follicle. Laser hair removal for fine hair is not as effective, although there are techniques available that will allow even those with fine, light-colored hair to enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal
2. Why Laser May Not Work On Fair Hair?
There is a reason why laser technician strongly advise clients to not ever bleach their hair before a session. Or just in general. Bleaching remove the color pigment in the hair. As previously mentioned, the color pigment in the hair is what attracts the light energy produced by the laser machine. If there is no pigment to target, laser hair removal will not work.
There are many different shades on blonde hair. While platinum blonde is very close to white, some other blonde hair will get closer to light brown. Laser hair removal works by preferentially targeting the melanin in hair follicles. Thus, the lighter the hair, the less pigment it holds. Laser hair removal may not always work on faired hair people because there may not be enough melanin in the hair to target.
Furthermore, an important factor in the success of laser hair removal treatment for light hair is the contrast between skin color and hair. Although, improvements in laser hair removal technology allows women of color to undergo laser hair removal, it is a bit trickier for blonde hair. Dark hair holds pigments to target. Fair hair may not. Thus, it may be harder for the laser to differentiate light hair from surrounding tissues.
Other Options for Blonde Hair Removal If you are still looking for other options for blonde hair removal, there are still some alternatives you can consider. Aside from the traditional methods of shaving, waxing, and threading, you can also consider the US FDA-approved treatment of electrolysis. Overall, both procedures can effectively remove hair and improve a patient’s confidence in their appearance.
However, recent advancements in laser technology have made way towards providing laser hair removal for blonde patients. Yes, laser hair removal works for unwanted blonde hair growth. Pigments are scarcer but it does not mean the machine will not be able to target any hair. It will just take more time to get through the treatment. While dark haired people will need six to eight sessions for their lower legs, blonde people may need between ten and twelve.
3. Not All Blonde People’s Hair Is Blonde
One big reason why blonde people can still undergo laser hair removal treatment is because not all hair on their body will actually be blonde. Blonde people will have hair in different shades of blonde on different areas of their body. You probably have noticed how your leg and arm hair is lighter and thinner than your bikini and underarms hair.
The body has two types of hair: vellus hair and terminal hair. Vellus hair is the short, fine and practically invisible hair that cover our entire bodies. Terminal hair on the other hand is ticker and pigmented. Typically, terminal hair is on the face, the underarms, around intimate parts, on the legs and arms. Laser hair removal removes terminal hair.
Even if your terminal hair may still be blonde, it will be of a darker blonde on some areas of your body than on others. Bikini hair is always darker, thus richest in pigments. Same for your underarms hair. Therefore, you can absolutely undergo laser hair removal on those areas and the results will be as good as with dark hair. Some will dye their light hair a shade darker to ensure better results. However, as we are about to cover below, this may not be necessary.
4. There Are Lasers For Blondes
Traditional laser removal devices require a pronounced contrast between the skin and hair color in order to be able to target only the pigment in the hair. Laser hair removal machines have improved so much that what was impossible before is now possible. For a long time, it was believed that women of colors cannot undergo laser hair removal due to the lack of contrast between skin complexion and hair color. The coming of new technology now allows for a safe and efficient laser hair removal treatment for darker skins.
Due to the lack of pigments in fair hair, it may be tricker for the laser to detect the hair. The absence of pigments may hinder the efficiency of the process. Thus, it happened that fair haired people dyed their hair in a darker shade before a laser hair removal procedure. However, new laser hair removal technologies such as Nd:YAG laser can now successfully remove light-colored hair. No need to dye your hair anymore.
Nd:YAG laser devices have a longer wavelength that is highly sensitive to all color and melanin. This means it can more precisely penetrate hair follicles without damaging surrounding tissue. Indeed, it deposits its energy deep into the dermis without relying on melanin to do so. That is why it is safe for darker skins too. And now increases the chances of success of laser hair removal treatments on blonde hair.
Indeed, diode lasers and ND:YAG do not rely that much on melanin to deposit energy deep into the dermis and to get to the follicle. They can more precisely penetrate the skin without damaging surrounding tissue. Before you start your laser treatment, make sure the laser spa has the right machines for your hair color.
5. What About Ginger, Grey or White Hair?
However, one challenge remains. Laser Technology advancement in laser hair removal machines has not yet been able to fully get around this one challenge that represent ginger, grey and white hair. The reason is simple, as already mentioned above. Laser devices cannot differentiates ginger or grey hair from the surrounding tissues. Indeed, lasers work best on light-skinned, dark-haired individuals because the light from these lasers is absorbed by the dark pigment in the hair.
There are specially developed lasers that have proven effective in removing unwanted hair for fair skinned and blonde haired men and women. The Alexandrite Laser works at a higher intensity than traditional lasers, blasting you with the pigment you need to enjoy permanent hair reduction and removal. Laser Hair Removal for Brown Skin Laser hair removal for dark/black skin can be even more of a challenge than for those with pale skin.
Ginger and grey hair have less pigments than dark hair, while white hair has not pigments at all. Both ginger and grey hair will absorb less energy, producing less follicular damage. Thus, they will need more treatments in order to permanently reduce unwanted hair. Laser hair removal will work on a natural redhead with a darker tone of red hair or thicker hair. Yet, redheads should be prepared to do at least eight consecutive sessions of laser hair removal.
Ginger and grey hair may be tricker but it is still possible to undergo laser treatments. If you have either, you should schedule a free consultation with a laser technician to assess what can be done. Speaking face to face will allow you to know whether you can undergo laser hair removal, how many sessions you will need, the cost of laser hair removal for you and the chances of success of the procedure.
It is important to remember that while recent advancements in laser technology have made it easier for patients with lighter hair to get the procedure safely, there is no guarantee that you will experience the same results as what someone with darker hair might experience
In conclusion
As you can see, laser hair removal for blonde hair is not necessarily out of the question. There are just some things that you need to consider before determining if it is right for you.
To determine if laser hair removal is the right choice for your hair, schedule a consultation with an experienced cosmetic medical provider for a full assessment of your skin and hair type. You may need more treatments than people with darker hair, but blonde hair is no longer an obstacle to achieving smooth, hairless skin.
Blonde hair can undergo laser as long as the right technology is available in the clinic blonde patients choose. Some areas of the body, such as the underarms and bikini, usually have darker hair, so laser hair removal will work fine on those. On other areas with lighter hair such as the legs and arms, blonde hair may need more laser hair removal to see permanent hair growth reduction.
Your results may vary and your treatment may require more sessions because of your skin or hair color. However, as long as there is pigment to target and your certified technician uses the right laser machine, the procedure will work for you.
Laser Treatment For Blemishes Cost
There are various types of lasers used in these procedures
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in 2017, the average cost of laser skin resurfacing was $1,114-$2,124, which was average $2,071 in 2018. In 2019, the average cost of this procedure was $1,963 for ablatives and $1,201 for non-ablative. The cost varies widely depending on the type of procedure and areas of treatment.
Because laser skin resurfacing surgeries are not life-saving surgeries, there is no insurance coverage provided by the companies, except for the surgeries that are done to remove precancerous growth or modified scars on your skin.
The average cost does not include other related expenses. Therefore, you must consult your plastic surgeon and your insurance company before the procedure about payments. Most health insurance company plans do not provide coverage for cosmetic surgery or its complications. However, most plastic surgeons offer some payment options, so meet your plastic surgeon and determine your final cost.
The cost of laser skin resurfacing will vary based on the expertise, qualification of the plastic surgeon performing the procedure, the type of procedure, the time and effort required for that treatment, and the location of the office.
Generally, laser skin resurfacing procedure costs may include the following:
- Hospital facility cost for surgery
- Anesthesia fees
- Medication prescription
Satisfaction involves more than a fee. Therefore, while choosing a plastic surgeon for this procedure, you must assure the surgeon’s experience and your comfort, which are the most important aspects as much as the cost.
What is skin resurfacing?
Laser resurfacing is a procedure that removes layers of the skin and improves its appearance or treats minor facial flaws such as blemishes or acne scars by using lasers.
There are various types of lasers used in these procedures such as:
- Carbon dioxide (CO2): This type of laser is used to treat wrinkles, scars, and warts on your skin.
- Erbium: It is used to remove superficial or moderately deep lines and wrinkles on your face, hands, neck, and chest. It has fewer side effects than CO2 lasers.
- Pulsed-dye laser: These are non-ablative lasers that heat the skin and absorb pigments to reduce redness, hyperpigmentation, broken capillaries, and enlargement of facial blood vessels, giving rosacea (flushed appearance).
- Fractional laser: It treats only the fraction of the skin in the area by breaking laser energy into thousands of tiny beams. It can be used in ablative or non-ablative procedures. It can be used to treat age-related blemishes.
- Intense pulsed light (IPL): This treatment does not use a laser but uses a broad spectrum of light wavelength to treat pigmentations of the skin.
When should you have laser skin resurfacing?
You can ask for this procedure to a plastic surgeon if you have the following:
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Crow’s feet (wrinkle at the outer corner of your eye)
- Sagged skin
- Scars
- Signs of sun damage to the skin
- Wrinkles
What are the possible risks of laser skin resurfacing?
Risks include:
- Pain
- Reactivation of herpes sores over lips
- Burning sensation
- Burns
- Itching
- Swelling
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Increased risk of sun damage
- Crusting of your skin
- Pigmentation or discoloration of the skin
- Bumps due to obstruction of the sweat glands
Laser treatment for face
If aging, acne, or too much time in the sun has left your face with blotches, scars, wrinkles, or lines, laser skin resurfacing may help your skin look younger and healthier.
Laser skin resurfacing removes skin layer by layer with precision. The new skin cells that form during healing give the skin a tighter, younger looking surface. The procedure can be done alone or with other cosmetic surgeries on the face.
Preparing for Laser Resurfacing
Start by consulting a plastic surgeon or dermatologist to find out if you’re a good candidate.
Tell your doctor if you get cold sores or fever blisters around your mouth. Laser skin resurfacing can trigger breakouts in people who are at risk.
If you decide to go ahead with laser skin resurfacing, your doctor will ask you to not take any medications or supplements — such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or vitamin E — that can affect clotting for 10 days before surgery.
If you smoke, you should stop for two weeks before and after the procedure. Smoking can prolong healing.
Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic medication beforehand to prevent bacterial infections and also an antiviral medication if you are prone to cold sores or fever blisters.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
Laser resurfacing is done by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. It’s an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll not have to stay overnight.
The doctor may treat wrinkles around your eyes, mouth, or forehead individually or treat your entire face. For small areas, the doctor will numb the areas to be treated with a local anesthetic and may also sedate you. You may require general anesthesia if your whole face is being treated.
Treating just parts of the face takes about 30 to 45 minutes. A full-face treatment takes up to two hours.
Following the laser procedure, the doctor will bandage the treated areas. After 24 hours, you will need to clean the treated areas four to five times a day and then apply an ointment such as petroleum jelly to prevent scabs from forming.
Swelling after laser skin resurfacing is normal. Your doctor may prescribe steroids to manage swelling around your eyes. Sleeping on an extra pillow at night can also ease swelling.
You may feel itching or stinging for 12 to 72 hours after the procedure. Five to seven days after laser resurfacing, your skin will become dry and peel.
Depending on the problem that was treated, healing typically takes 10 to 21 days. Once the skin heals, you can wear oil-free makeup to minimize redness, which usually fades in two to three months.
You will also probably notice that your skin is lighter for a while after surgery. It is particularly important that you use a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen, which screens ultraviolet B and ultraviolet A rays, to protect your skin during that time. When selecting a sunscreen, look for one specially formulated for use on the face with a 7% (or higher) zinc oxide content and a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.Reapply your sunscreen every two hours when you are out, and more often if you are sweating or swimming.
It is also important to keep your new skin well moisturized. If you use Retin A or glycolic acid products, you should be able to start using them again after about six weeks or when the doctor says you can.
Benefits and Risks of Laser Resurfacing
Although skin resurfacing cannot produce perfect skin, it can improve the appearance of your skin. Potential risks of the procedure include:
- Burns or other injuries from the laser’s heat
- Scarring
- Changes in the skin’s pigmentation, including areas of darker or lighter skin
- Reactivating herpes cold sores
- Bacterial infection
Cost of Laser Skin Resurfacing
The average cost for laser skin resurfacing was about $2509 for ablative and $1445 for non-ablative laser skin resurfacing in 2020, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, costs vary widely depending on where the procedure is being done.
Because laser skin resurfacing is considered a cosmetic procedure, most medical insurance companies will not cover it. There may be an exception if you get the procedure to modify scars or remove precancerous growths on your skin.
Talk with your doctor and your insurance company before the procedure about what the costs will be and what, if anything, insurance will pay for. Most doctors offer financing options.