Unwanted hair on the face and body can cause embarrassment and self-consciousness, especially in women. Traditional methods for removing hair from the face and body are time-consuming, inconvenient and produce only short-lived results. Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular noninvasive cosmetic procedures, owing to its convenience and long-lasting results.
In the US alone, over one million laser hair removal treatments were performed in 2016. The procedure uses concentrated light technology to prevent new hair growth. The technique has been tested since the 1960s and was made commercially available in 1995. It is FDA-approved and vigorously regulated for safety.
Before you undergo a laser hair removal treatment, you should make sure your skin is clean and free of blemishes. You should also avoid tanning beds or sun exposure, as both naturally and artificially tanned skin can make laser hair removal less effective, leading to side effects like hyperpigmentation or burns. Lastly, you should avoid waxing and plucking your hairs because they disrupt the root of the hair and can leave the skin vulnerable to damage from the laser’s heat.
Laser hair removal works by exposing the treatment laser hair removal Memphis TN area to pulses of light, which are absorbed by melanin in the hair follicles and converted to heat. The laser heat destroys the hair follicle, which stops it from growing new hair. Because melanin only exists in darker hair colors, the laser hair removal procedure is less effective on blonde, red or gray hair. Nonetheless, advancements in laser technology are making it more effective for people with lighter hair as well.
Your dermatologist will discuss your health history, including medications and allergies, to determine if you are a good candidate for the laser hair removal treatment. During your consultation, she will examine the areas that you would like to treat and advise you on how many treatments are required to achieve your desired hair-free outcome. During your appointment, she will also explain the process of laser hair removal and answer any questions you may have.
During laser hair removal, your dermatologist will apply a numbing gel to the treatment area. Then, she will place protective goggles over your eyes. The laser technician will use the device to systematically treat the treatment area. The treatment can feel like a series of stings or a rubber band snapping against your skin. It might last a few minutes or up to an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated.
After your laser hair removal treatment, your skin might be a little red or swollen, similar to the way you would look after a mild sunburn. To reduce the swelling, you can put a cold compress on the area. You should avoid direct sunlight on the treatment area, and you should follow your doctor’s after-treatment care instructions. After a few days, you should notice that your hair is thinning, and it should eventually fall out completely. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms after your treatment, please contact your dermatologist immediately.