What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is the technique of removing unwanted body hair using a focused beam of light (laser). It’s an excellent alternative for individuals who want to remove or decrease their hair more effectively and less painfully than electrolysis.
During laser therapy, a laser produces concentrated light to burn hair follicles in the skin’s dermis. Melanin, the pigment in hair, is then exposed to the laser light. The energy is transformed into heat and destroys the hair’s follicles at once, preventing or delaying future growth.
What to expect during the laser treatment?
A few days before your laser hair removal treatment, you should avoid sun exposure. This is because the procedure cannot be performed on tanned skin.
In addition, you should also avoid waxing and plucking because the procedure can’t be done on irritated skin.
If you’re using anti-inflammatory medicine, Doctor Shawn Seit will probably advise you to take a vacation before getting laser hair removal.
It’s also beneficial if you remove or trim the spot where you want to expose your skin to the laser light one day before the procedure.
During the procedure, the doctor will use a hand-held laser device to press on your skin. They may also apply chilly devices or a cold gel to protect your skin and minimize problems.
You might feel discomfort while the laser beam reaches your hair follicles, such as as hot pinpricks accompanied by a feeling of cold coming from the cooling device or gel.
What are the possible side effects?
Because the operation is quick and non-invasive, the National Library of Medicine states that the side effects are uncommon. Swelling, redness, and skin irritation are common adverse effects. They generally go away after a few days. To ease discomfort, apply ice to the treated region.
However, there have been isolated occurrences of patients developing more serious adverse effects such as burns, blisters, scars, infections, or discoloration of their skin. The easiest method to avoid these issues is to go with an expert medical professional.
How long do the effects last?
The fact that the effects of laser hair removal are not permanent is one of its drawbacks. In addition, complete hair removal necessitates multiple treatments.
You may require between three and eight treatment sessions and wait approximately six weeks between each session, depending on the size of the treated region.
Hair removal lasers zap away unwanted hair quickly, but the process may take some time. Don’t worry, it’ll be worth it in the end! Not only that, but you’ll also experience benefits like less ingrown hairs and skin irritation because laser therapy helps your hair grow straighter.
How much does it cost?
The cost of laser hair removal varies depending on a variety of factors. The size of the treated region will always have an impact on the ultimate price, as will the number of treatments.
However, when considering how much money one spends on waxing or razors throughout their lifetime and long-term hair removal outcomes, $200 to $400 each session is reasonable since permanent hair removal treatment offers long-term savings.
In 2020, the average price per session was $389. Though you can find cheaper options, if it’s done by an untrained individual, you run greater risk for skin burns or scars. Always check that whoever is performing this service on you has had proper training and certification in order to avoid any future complications.