Laser hair removal has become a staple beauty treatment for many. Because of its permanency, people love how it saves them time and effort in the long-run from frequent shaving or waxing.
But what is laser hair removal, who is a candidate for it, and where can you get permanent laser hair removal in The Woodlands, Texas? ( link to June blog on LHR)
What is laser hair removal? And how does laser hair removal work?
While it sounds very simple based on the name (using a laser to permanently remove unwanted hair) it’s important to understand exactly what laser hair removal entails before booking a session.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Laser hair removal uses a process called selective photothermolysis. Heat from a laser destroys cells that have a lot of pigment (color). Since dark hair has a lot of pigment, it absorbs the most heat. Hair transfers heat to the hair follicles and destroys them, so hair can’t grow.”
The reason laser hair removal doesn’t rid of all unwanted hair in the first session is mainly because of the hair growth cycles and the laser’s technology. The laser wavelength emits heat to the root of the hair to destroy the follicles that are still attached.
However, your hair grows in three phases, and in two out of three phases your hair is being detached or shed, after which new hair will form. The laser doesn’t affect hairs in these two phases where it’s being shed from your body, so you need a few sessions to get fully down to the root. (It’s also why they recommend you don’t wax or shave before the appointment.
As far as what happens during the procedure, you can expect the following according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons:
- Your practitioner may apply a topical aesthetic (more likely if you’re getting laser hair removal in the underarms or bikini line)
- You may also receive eye protection
- Your practitioner may use a cold gel or cooling device
- You may feel slight discomfort or tingling during the procedure, especially if it’s your first session
- Your procedure can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour
What areas can get laser hair removal?
If you’re struggling with unwanted hair on many parts of your body, you’re not alone. But which of these areas is eligible for hair laser removal?
Luckily, you can get everything from laser facial hair removal to bikini line hair removal. Some other areas in which you can get hair removal include:
- Legs
- Arms
- Underarms
- Chest
- Back
Who is a candidate for laser hair removal?
As you may have heard, because of the technology, laser hair removal is more effective for some.
Because the hair removal occurs when the hair absorbs the heat, the more contrast, the better the results. That’s why this procedure previously worked best for those with dark hair and light skin. The technology has evolved, however, but if you have dark skin or blonde, gray, or red hair, you will still want to speak to your practitioner to see if permanent laser hair removal is right for you.
Also, if you are pregnant, have a sunburn in the area, have tattoos in the area, suffer from eczema, or are on antibiotics, you may be ineligible for permanent laser hair removal.
How long does a laser hair removal session take? And how long in between sessions?
As mentioned previously, hair laser removal sessions can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
In terms of how long your specific session will take, it depends on what area you are treating. For example, laser removal on your leg will take much longer than laser facial hair removal.
And just as determining how long your specific session will take depends on what you are treating, how many sessions needed for best results varies from patient to patient. Generally, however, you can expect to see positive results from three to six sessions. While you are waiting the typical four to six weeks between sessions (although your practitioner will let you know how frequently you should come back) be sure not to wax or undergo excessive sun exposure.
When is the best time to get laser hair removal?
Another thing you may have heard about laser hair removal is there are certain times of the year you should, and shouldn’t, undergo this procedure. This is both for your safety and to experience best results.
Because hair removal via laser makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, it’s best to try to get it done in the fall or winter months (or whatever months are coldest in your area) – especially if you are treating areas that are more exposed to the sun than others. Remember to account for all possible appointments when planning when to get laser hair removal as it will take at least a few months.
What are the side effects of laser hair removal?
While the Cleveland Clinic states that laser hair removal is an effective and safe procedure, they do advise you keep an eye out for the following potential, short-term side effects:
- Burns
- Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation
- Blisters
- Scars
Does laser hair removal work?
There’s a reason laser hair removal has been offered for many years – because it works.
There are many studies in the last few years that highlight the efficacy of permanent laser hair removal. The “Lasers in Surgery and Medicine” journal evaluated about 3,606 hair removal sessions and “seventy-four percent of these patients received 75–100% clearance as reported by the physician and 48% clearance as reported by the patient.” The study also found that side effects were minimal and only occurred on the face.
Laser package in The Woodlands, Texas
If you are in The Woodlands, Texas area and are wanting to learn more about permanent laser hair removal or want to book a session, contact our med spa today at 281-402-3268.