Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic technique that uses intense, pulsing beams of light to remove unwanted hair from the face, armpits, back, legs, and bikini area. The laser focuses on melanin, or pigment, in the hair shaft and damages the hair follicle, helping to stop future hair growth. This procedure is used to reduce unwanted hair in almost any area of the body, except the eyelid or surrounding area. Skin with tattoos should not be treated either. The heat of a laser removes hair and destroys hair follicles, making it a safe and effective way to get rid of unwanted body hair.
The results last longer than those of waxing, tweezing, or shaving. However, it is not permanent and only an experienced healthcare professional should perform this procedure. Possible side effects include burns, scarring, and permanent skin discoloration. If you decide to use a home laser hair removal device, follow the instructions that come with the device to help reduce the risk of injury, especially eye injury. Naturally or artificially tanned skin can make laser hair removal less effective and cause side effects. Repeated treatments are often necessary because hair growth and loss occur naturally in one cycle, and laser treatment works best on hair follicles in the regrowth phase.
Different laser wavelengths are better for different skin types, and the laser can be adjusted to target different depths of the skin. If you are interested in laser hair removal, choose a doctor who is certified in a specialty such as dermatology or cosmetic surgery and who has experience in laser hair removal for your skin type. After laser hair removal, it is important to avoid exposure to the sun and use sunscreen to protect the treated area from sun damage. When laser hair removal was initially introduced, it was originally intended for patients with fair skin and dark hairs. However, there are no comprehensive studies comparing the effectiveness of these devices with laser hair removal performed in the doctor's office. Laser hair removal is not recommended for eyelids, eyebrows, or surrounding areas due to the possibility of serious eye damage. The Food and Drug Administration considers these laser hair removal devices for home use to be cosmetic, not medical, which means that they do not undergo the same level of scrutiny as other medical devices. Therefore, the contrast between hair color and skin - dark hair and fair skin - results in the best results.
Before laser hair removal, schedule a consultation with your doctor to determine if this is an appropriate treatment option for you.
