Hair removal options are endless, from shaving, waxing, threading, and tweezing. However, hair tends to regrow faster with these methods, and your skin may feel dry afterward. The good news is that your trusted aesthetic medical and wellness spa, Katy offers laser hair removal- one of the few options that provide extended periods of delayed hair growth. But like any other procedure that involves your body, you want to research the ins and outs of the process before starting the course. The following article gives you straight facts and debunks all the myths about laser hair removal.
Table of Contents
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that focuses a highly concentrated light beam into hair follicles. During the process, a laser device emits light absorbed by the melanin in the hair. The light energy is then converted to heat energy which destroys hair follicles within the skin, delaying or inhibiting hair growth. It is possible to eliminate unwanted hair in almost any body part except the eyelids and surrounding areas. While laser hair removal slows hair growth for an extended period, the results are not permanent. You may need subsequent treatment sessions to maintain the results.
How safe is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is a safe procedure, but it carries some risks. For this reason, it is best to work with certified and experienced personnel. Skin damage is one of the risks of laser hair removal, mainly affecting people with darker skin color. The above is true since the basic principle is that the hair and not the skin pigment should absorb light energy. However, it is easier for the melanin in the skin to absorb some light, causing skin damage. For this reason, people with little contrast between hair and skin are more likely to experience skin damage after treatment.
Fortunately, advances in technology have made laser hair removal an option for people with darker skin. Since melanin is essential for laser hair removal, the procedure may not benefit people with hair colors that don’t absorb light well, such as blonde, red, gray, and white. Laser treatment options for people with colored hair are underway.
What to expect during laser hair removal
Before treatment, you will wear a pair of protective sunglasses to prevent direct contact between the laser beam and your eyes. If you didn’t trim your hair before your appointment, an assistant might shave the area to be treated. Your doctor may apply a topical anesthetic on your skin to reduce any discomfort during laser hair removal. Using a hand-held laser device, the doctor directs a light beam on your skin, damaging the hair follicles. During treatment, you may feel a warm prick and a cooling sensation from a cooling gel or device on the instrument’s tip.
The procedure may last a few minutes or more than an hour, depending on the size of the area the doctor treats. Expect some redness and swelling for the first few hours after the procedure. Applying ice to the treated area may help reduce any discomfort.
Are you tired of constantly shaving or waxing? Book an appointment with your doctor at Serendipity Lifestyle & Wellness Spa for laser hair removal to achieve smooth and hairless skin.