If you have been thinking about getting laser hair removal, you probably have many questions about the treatment process. Most people start doing their research on laser hair removal online. This can be very overwhelming and confusing with the amount of different information you will find. Most importantly, you need to go to a reputable and experienced facility to have this done. There are many health and med spas offering laser hair removal without the necessary expertise and patients can experience blisters, burns and scarring from the treatment if not performed correctly. Laser hair removal when done properly should not burn your skin. Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about laser hair removal.
How does laser hair removal work?
Lasers used for laser hair removal have an invisible beam of light that destroy hair follicles at the roots. The light from the laser targets the pigment, or color, located in the hair follicles. When the laser hits the pigment of the hair follicles, the follicles absorb the light, heating the follicle to damage it, making it unable to grow back. Laser hair removal affects the hair when it’s in the active stage of its growth cycle, which is why multiple sessions are required for optimal results.
What are the side effects?
Risks from laser hair removal are minimal when performed by an experienced person. There is no down time following the procedure and you can return to normal activities immediately. Following the treatment, the patient may experience slight redness to the treated area, which will resolve usually within a few hours of the treatment.
Is laser hair removal painful?
We can remove unwanted hair with little discomfort when compared to other methods of hair removal. Some patients experience a slight discomfort, similar to popping a rubber band against the skin. This discomfort happens in the moment and location of the laser “zap” and is immediately relieve after the “zap”. Following the treatment, a cool compress may be applied to sooth the area.
Are the results permanent?
Results of laser hair removal vary depending on skin and hair type. Most patients are able to achieve permanent hair reduction of up to 95%. Any hair that remains following the series of treatments, grows back softer, lighter, and less dense.
How long does the procedure take?
Whether treating a large or small area, the process is fairly quick. For removal of hair on your back or legs, the treatment lasts typically 20 to 30 minutes. For smaller areas like the bikini area, face, neck, and underarms, the treatment only takes 5 to 10 minutes.
How much does laser hair removal cost?
Laser hair removal prices are determined by the area being treating. The size of the area will determine the time it will take to perform the treatment. Laser hair removal treatments need to be performed approximately every 6 weeks, with most patients achieving their desired results in just 4-6 treatments.
If you’re tired of spending all of your time and money shaving, just to be prickly by the end of the day, schedule a free consultation at the Skin Care Center at Gulf Coast Plastic Surgery to get rid of that unwanted hair for good.
