Laser hair removal

Overview

Laser hair removal refers to a medical procedure for removing unwanted hair from the body. This procedure uses a special concentrated light beam called LASER to remove unwanted hair from the body, such as the face, arms, underarms, bikini area, legs, and back. This is an advanced technology specialists use to remove unwanted hair safely and effectively. 

Laser hair removal may or may not be permanent. Sometimes, more sessions are required to remove the hair permanently. The results last longer than shaving and waxing the body parts. It is a non-invasive procedure and does not cause any cuts or nicks on the body. 

How does LASER work for hair removal

Selective photo thermolysis is the process by which LASER light removes unwanted hair from the body. Hair follicles have pigment in them. The heat from the LASER targets the cells having pigment in them. As hair darkness increases with the pigment, heat is transferred to the hair follicles and destroyed. Since the hair follicles are damaged, hair cannot grow back. 

Dark hair with light-colored skin is the best combination for LASER hair removal. This technique does not work well for hair colors that do not absorb light, like grey, red, blond, and white. LASER hair removal has the benefit of precisely removing the dark, coarse hairs from the target area in a fraction of a second. 

Indications of LASER hair removal

This procedure can be done by anyone who wants to remove their hair and does not like shaving or waxing them regularly. This is also a procedure of choice in people having excess hair growth due to hirsutism, hypertrichosis, or any inherited disorders, polycystic ovarian syndrome. It is also suggested for people who are under certain medications like steroids, birth control pills, and hormonal pills. Laser hair removal is preferred for treating tumors that overproduce hormones, leading to excessive hair growth.

Eyelids, skin around them, and tattoo areas cannot be treated with LASER hair removal. 

Before the procedure

A certified dermatologist does the best LASER hair removal. Before the procedure, an individual should give complete information about medical history, medications like aspirin, isotretinoin, skin diseases, and past hair removal techniques. Any history of keloid scars or herpetic infections should be informed.  Photographs might be taken to compare before with after. 

It is better to avoid sun exposure before and after the treatment. Any creams that can darken the skin should not be used. In order not to disturb the hair follicles, techniques like waxing, plucking, or electrolysis should be avoided at least a month before the procedure. It is better to shave the target area before undergoing the procedure to prevent treatment failure and burning of the skin due to excessive hair. 

During the procedure

Before LASER hair removal, the designated area undergoes cleansing, followed by the application of a numbing gel. After 30 to 60 minutes of gel application, the procedure will be started. Protective eyewear is given to individuals who are undergoing LASER treatment to prevent unnecessary exposure of eyes to the LASER light. 

The target area is held firmly, and LASER light is projected. A warm pinprick is felt in the area of the LASER application. A cooling gel or a device will also be used to cool the treated area after exposure to LASER. As the LASER removes hair by vaporizing the area, smoky plumes that smell like sulfur can be seen. The duration of treatment depends on the target area. 

After the procedure

Individuals should avoid unnecessary sun exposure after the procedure. Tanning beds, sun lamps, or any indoor tanning equipment should be avoided. Broad spectrum sun protection factor will be prescribed along with some steroids to protect the treated area. Ice packs and cold water can also reduce the redness as well as swelling caused due to the treatment. 

The number of sessions and the duration of the treatment for Laser hair removal varies between individuals. But it can generally take from 2 to 6 sessions. Areas like the upper lip take only a few minutes, while places like the back and chest may take hours to be treated. The duration between any two sessions depends on hair regrowth and the area being treated. Generally, 4 to 6 weeks of gap will be advised. 

Side Effects and Risks

Redness and swelling are generally seen after treatment, which will subside slowly. Sometimes, LASER treatment might darken or lighten the impacted skin, which can be temporary or permanent.  Occasionally, blistering, scarring, and crusting can be seen. Rare side effects include excessive hair growth and graying of hair. 

The success of the procedure

The procedure is considered successful if there is a delay in the regrowth of the hair in the target area or if there is no growth in the target area. Hair fall does not occur immediately. It can take multiple sessions for permanent hair removal. Regrown hair is typically finer and lighter in color. A 10-25% reduction is generally in the first LASER hair removal session. 

Conclusion

LASER hair removal is a safe and efficacious solution for those seeking long-term reduction of unwanted hair. While the procedure may require multiple sessions for optimal results, hair growth is significantly decreased compared to traditional methods like shaving or waxing. With proper precautions as well as guidance from a certified dermatologist, laser hair removal can offer long-lasting results.