Laser Hair Removal - A Brief Description

The laser hair removal process is a medical produced which uses an intense, pulsating beam of light to eliminate unwanted hair. This beam of light is technically not a laser beam though the process is commonly referred to as laser hair removal. This light passes through the skin to the individual hair follicle. The intense heat damages the hair follicle, which slows further growth. This process works because the laser selectively damages darker objects while leaving lighter objects untouched. For this reason, laser hair removal works best on people with dark hair and fair skin. Although laser treatment slows hair growth it does not necessarily eliminate it immediately. Although a single treatment can slow hair growth for many months and even years, to permanently prevent hair growth, it is often necessary to undergo multiple treatments. There are also some people who have hair that appears to be resistant to laser treatments.

The most common side effects of laser hair removal treatments are skin irritation and pigment changes to the skin. Laser treatment may lighten or darken skin color in the areas treated, although this is often temporary.

Because lasers work by targeting the darker hair follicles, people with darker skin are not candidates for this treatment. If you have a tan, whether it is from the sun or from tanning products you must wait until the tan has faded completing before undergoing treatment. Tanned skin is more likely to experience blistering and discoloration. Exposure to the sun should be avoided for at least four weeks prior to have the procedure done. Laser treatment is most effective if the hairs to be removed are shaved short. You should avoid waxing or plucking the hair for at least three weeks before treatment. You should also avoid electrolysis for three to four weeks prior to laser hair removal.

During laser treatment, a trained nurse or doctor presses the laser instrument against your skin. Depending upon the type of instrument being used, a cooling device or cooling gel is used to help protect the skin from blistering. Your doctor or nurse may apply a topical anesthetic before the procedure to reduce discomfort.

No bandages or medications are necessary after the treatment. Some people experience redness or swelling immediately after the treatment but this should only last a few hours. Occasionally, the skin crusts slightly and this can be treated by keeping the area most with petroleum jelly. You should avoid any exercise or exertion that will lead to perspiring for 24 hours after treatment as this can cause skin irritation. You must also avoid exposing the treated area to sunlight for several weeks. Using tanning booths during this time will damage your skin.

The laser hair removal process should only be performed by a trained professional. It can be a safe and effective method of controlling or eliminating hair growth if proper procedures are followed before, during and after treatment.

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