Get Rid of Unwanted Body Hair With IPL Treatments at BellaNess Med Spa
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses pulsed laser energy to remove unwanted hair from a targeted area, while leaving surrounding skin unharmed. Common areas on which laser hair removal is performed are the chin, upper lip, chest, underarms, back, bikini line and legs.
Of course, there are many temporary treatments, including tweezing, shaving, using depilatory creams and waxing, to remove unwanted hair, patients seeking more permanent and less irritating/painful methods are frequently good candidates for laser hair removal. Through what is a safe and usually painless procedure, hair can be removed from nearly any area of the body (the eye area is an exception because of the possibility of serious eye damage).
Candidates for Laser Hair Removal
Because the laser beams used to remove hair target its melanin (pigment), the best candidates have dark hair and light skin. Conversely, those with blond, red, gray or white hair and dark skin are usually not good candidates. Recent technological advances have made laser hair removal for those with dark skin more successful, while techniques for using lasers to effectively remove light-colored hair are being investigated.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
There are many benefits to having unwanted hair removed through the use of laser therapy. They include the following:
- Hair is precisely targeted
- Procedure is quick
- Results are permanent (for 90 percent of patients) or long-lasting
For many patients, laser hair removal is painless, although some experience minor discomfort, usually described as something like a rubber band’s snapping against the skin.
Laser Hair Removal Procedure
Laser hair removal is performed while the target area is numbed by a topical anesthetic. A handheld device that emits intense laser pulses is moved across the area, focusing on individual hair follicles. There are several different methods of laser hair removal, some of which combine laser impulses with radiofrequency. The appropriate method for each patient is decided in consultation with the physician administering treatment.
Hair growth takes place cyclically, in three stages. The most effective laser hair removal takes place during the androgen (full-growth) stage, because the hair follicles in this stage are susceptible to laser energy. But, because all hair is not in the same stage of growth at any given time, several laser treatments, usually between three and five, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, are necessary. To some extent, the length of treatment depends on the texture of the patient’s hair, and the location from which it is being removed.
Recovery from Laser Hair Removal
Some redness, soreness or swelling may occur immediately after laser hair removal, but they almost always disappear within a few days. Cold compresses or ice packs, moisturizers, and anti-inflammatory creams may minimize discomfort. Sun exposure should be avoided as much as possible for some period of time.
Complications of Laser Hair Removal
The most common complication of laser hair removal is the regrowth of the unwanted hair. Frequently, however, the hair that regrows is finer and lighter than the hair that was removed. Usually, regrowth can be addressed with a few additional treatment sessions. Other complications that may arise after laser hair treatment include skin irritation such as blistering and crusting; changes in pigmentation or texture of the skin; and scarring at the removal site.
FAQs for Laser Hair Removal
Q: How do I prepare for laser hair removal?
A: Before your treatment, you must:
- Avoid sunbathing, tanning beds, waxing, chemical peel clinics, or collagen injections for two weeks before the procedure.
- Avoid perfumes, deodorants, or any potential irritants in the treatment area before and after treatment.
- Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements due to an increased risk of bleeding.
Q: When will I see the results?
A: You will see results after your first session. The hair growth will be less, and the hairs will become finer and weaker; your skin will become smoother, and the hair pores will become less visible after each session.
Your treated area will be cleared of most of the present hair during the treatment, while the rest of the treated hair will shed in two weeks, leaving the area smooth and clean. Most individuals can expect long-term hair reduction in six treatments.
Q: What should I expect after treatment?
A:
- Redness and swelling of the hair follicle is a normal occurrence.
- Pain and discomfort can be easily treated with over-the-counter pain medicines.
- To avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week following all laser hair removal procedures.
Q: How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
A: Laser hair removal offers a long-lasting solution to unwanted hair growth. After completing the recommended number of treatment sessions, most individuals experience a significant reduction in hair growth, with many achieving near-permanent results. Over time, some hair may regrow; however, it tends to be finer and less noticeable than before the treatment.
We’re actively doing Laser Hair Removal and IPL in the following nearby areas:
