Laser hair removal is a technology that has substantial benefits. Permanent hair reduction has become one of medical science’s most remarkable innovations and the science is fairly simple.
Laser hair removal technology uses heat, which is absorbed by the hair follicle and the pigment, to signal the body that it should no longer produce hair in that area.. While there are multiple ways to remove unwanted body hair, laser treatments have become the most sought-after method in recent years due to the fact that they are fast and long-lasting.
If you’re looking into laser hair removal to finally be in control of your body hair, here are seven things you need to remember:
- Results may vary
A myth perpetuated by laser hair removal service providers is that everybody gets the same results. The fact of the matter is, the results of the procedure are different from person to person. What comes out of your treatment will depend on the texture, color, and type of your hair, as well as your skin color. According to experts, people with thick, dark hair are the best candidates for laser removal as their hair’s coarse texture soaks up most of the heat energy emitted by the laser. Different brands of Lasers also vary greatly in the effectiveness of their treatments. Laser hair removal devices can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $100,000.00 or more. Make sure you are going to a facility with a top notch laser such as the Vectus, Gentlelase, or Icon and don’t end up with a Chinese machine that can not do the job quickly or safely..
- You may want to ditch your usual skin care regimen
Not forever, of course. The day before and during your laser hair removal appointment, it is important not wear any skin products such as makeup, sunscreen, and lotion. Like with a coolsculpting procedure, your skin should be thoroughly clean during the process as ingredients in skin care products could react negatively with the laser. Further, those prescribed with facial cream like Retin-A, should stop using the product two to four weeks before the big day.
- Laser hair removal isn’t painful but it’s not pain free
While not completely a pain-free procedure, most patients find it tolerable. People who have undergone laser treatments say there’s a slight sensation similar to rubber band snapping against your skin. The level of discomfort depends on the treated area, the texture of the hair, and skin; and is very quick. However, patients with sensitive skin may experience redness and itchiness post-treatment, but these will only last for up to two hours.
- Pregnant women should wait
As with most derma-procedures, be it Coolsculpting, RF body sculpting, and the like, pregnant women are advised not to undergo laser hair removal. Estrogen levels in a woman’s body surge during pregnancy and so hair growth may increase. A quick Google search will show results of forum sites with women asking if it’s safe or not, and while there really is no proven claim that removal of hair through laser is harmful for expecting women, it is best to be on the safe side. It is always a smart idea to try this procedure post-childbirth.
- Tanning beds are a no-no
Tanning has received flak for the damage it can do to the skin long-term and the fact that skin cancers have been linked to them, but if you’re still one of the many who can’t seem to stay away from tanning beds, skip the routine entirely if you want a smooth, hair-free body. Also as stated above, skin care products may have adverse reactions to laser treatment. It is advised to arrive at the skin care clinic in your natural color, and you should also avoid getting too much sun, before and after the procedure.
- Shaving before the procedure will help
It is best to shave the day of or at least the day before the laser hair removal procedure, and for good reason: the laser beam will have a hard time targeting the hair follicle if they are first absorbed by the hair outside of the skin. Therefore, the energy from the beam will be wasted in other areas because your hair is too long. This is where shaving comes in. While it may slice the hair short all the way to the pore, the laser will still be able to detect it and will focus its energy in one area for immediate results. Do not wax, otherwise you will be wasting the procedure and not see results as the laser will not have any hair to target.
- Laser Hair Removal can be affordable
We often hear of the expense of laser hair removal and not about how it can actually save you money. Imagine how much time you’ll save not shaving your legs and how much you’ll save on shaving essentials. Service rates vary depending on the clinic you chose and the areas treated but you may be able to find a promotion or two. It’s a procedure that takes a few sessions, typically 5-6 sessions are recommended.
Now that you know all the important things about laser hair removal, you can find a good clinic and finally be free of unwanted hair, just be sure to choose an experienced and reputable laser hair removal center.