Most people have some level of unwanted hair on their body. It can be unsightly and annoying to constantly shave. Therefore, you may want to seek a longer term solution to banish that hair for good. Laser hair removal might just be what you’re looking for; here’s what you need to know.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses concentrated light in the form of a laser to remove hair from your body. You can choose which parts of your body you want the hair to be removed from, too. The most common areas include:
- Back
- Shoulders
- Arms
- Chest
- Bikini line
- Legs
- Neck
- Face
It’s mostly done for cosmetic purposes, especially for those who feel like they grow too much hair in certain regions. However, your doctor may recommend it to you if you have problems related to hair growth.
Why Choose It?
Your doctor may be the one that chooses it for you. If you decide it yourself, it’s a great way to help yourself feel comfortable in your skin again. You won’t regret the procedure after seeing the noticeable differences in your skin when the hair is removed. It’s also a pain-free procedure that comes with very few side effects (and the ones it does come with only last for a short time, if at all).
How Does It Work?
As mentioned above, laser hair removal uses a concentrated laser to affect hair follicles on the body. The hair follicle allows the laser in, which is attracted by the melanin pigment in the hair. After the hair follicle and the laser come into contact, the hair vaporizes. After that, very little upkeep is needed to keep your body hair-free, though you will have to go back for a few more procedures to guarantee success.
Preparing For Your Appointment
Before the procedure, it’s ideal to stay out of the sun for a few days. Tanned skin is counteractive to the laser in the therapy session. Also, if you can avoid it, make sure skin irritation is kept to a minimum. You want your skin to be in top shape before tackling the therapy.
You must avoid waxing, plucking, or other forms of hair removal. If you try to remove your hair before the laser therapy, you won’t see the effectiveness in the results.
How Long Does It Take?
The appointments themselves are typically very quick, but depending on your hair type and how it regrows, you will need a course of treatment. This can be up to 8 appointments that are spaced out around 4-6 weeks apart.
Results
Most patients that take part in laser hair removal come out satisfied with the results. In fact, a survey in 2003 shows that over 70% of patients are happy with the work done. It’s one of the most preferred and popular methods for removing hair from the body and is recommended frequently by doctors.
Does it Hurt?
Any pain from laser hair removal is extremely minimal and often likened to being lightly snapped with a rubber band.
Aftercare
The best part about laser hair removal is that very little aftercare needs to happen to look after your skin. Laser hair removal comes with a few side effects, like swelling, redness, or skin irritation. However, after the procedure is complete, these symptoms typically vanish, and you are left to enjoy your newfound hairless skin.
To ensure the best results and aftercare, follow these tips:
- Wear a moisturizing sunblock on the treatment area with a minimum of SPF 45.
- Do not bathe in hot water,
- Use Aquaphor® or Vaseline® to moisturize the treated area three times a day for three to four days
- Do not swim for at least 3 days
- Avoid the sun and tanning beds
- Avoid exercising or any strenuous activity
- Avoid beauty products that may aggravate the treatment area for at least seven days
- Use ice packs and a thin dish towel between your skin and the pack
- Take oral liquid including Benadryl®, Allegra®, or Claritin®
Summary
Hopefully now you know a little more about laser hair removal and what you can expect from it. It’s one of the most popular methods for removing hair from the body for a reason and if you’re interested then you need to call Glow Aesthetic Center in Encino.
At Glow Aesthetic Center, we strive to provide the best possible treatment. Call (818) 905-8815 or fill out the form on our Contact or Book an Appointment pages to schedule a consultation. You’re just one quick call aways from a life without unwanted hair!