Temporary discomfort, redness, and swelling may be expected after a laser hair removal session. These symptoms usually subside within a few hours. The skin may darken or lighten in the area that was treated. After completing a full cycle of laser treatments, it is possible to achieve a reduction of more than 80% in hair growth.
It is normal to see some regrowth of hair in the weeks following the initial treatment, as not all hair follicles will have been in the anagen phase during the first session. During subsequent sessions, different groups of follicles will be targeted as they enter the growth phase. Results can vary from patient to patient, but generally speaking, a 10-25% reduction in hair can be expected after the first treatment. To achieve complete removal of hair, most patients require 2-6 laser treatments.
After finishing treatments, most patients do not see hair on the treated skin for several months or even years. When hair does grow back, it tends to be finer and lighter in color. It is normal to experience some skin irritation immediately after each laser hair removal session. Other side effects are rare when the procedure is performed by a dermatologist or under their direct supervision.
People with darker hair and lighter skin tend to have better results with laser hair removal than those with other combinations of hair and skin color. It is important to avoid any methods of hair removal that reach the roots of the follicle, such as plucking and threading, after undergoing laser hair removal. Sunscreen should also be applied regularly to the treated areas to protect them from damage. During laser treatments, lasers target melanin in the hair follicles and cause them to become weak and unable to sustain normal hair growth.
As a result, the affected hairs shed from the follicle. Before taking any medication, it is important to consult your laser hair removal specialist and health care provider about any possible contraindications.
