Laser hair removal is for anyone looking to get rid of hair growths on their body. During the procedure, a beam of light is used to attack hair follicles, inhibiting the growth of new hair. The technique effectively delays future hair growth, but it typically does not permanently stop it. Keeping hair from growing permanently will require regular maintenance laser treatments.
The lasers used for this procedure tend to be most effective on those with darker hair types and lighter skin tones. The more contrast there is between the patient's hair color and skin color, the more effective the treatment will usually be. The goal is for the laser only to be absorbed by the hair follicles being removed and not the patient's skin itself. More contrast makes that task easier.
The laser used can remove hair from pretty much any part of the body, but it is typically not recommended for areas around the eyes like eyebrows or eyelids as it can risk causing a severe eye injury.
For most people, anywhere from two to six sessions are needed to eliminate hairs on the chosen part(s) of their body. The length of time between each session varies based on the area being treated. Areas like the back of the neck are prone to slow hair growth, so the sessions can be as much as four months apart. Hair tends to grow very fast in other areas like the upper lip, so getting rid of hair in this area might require one session every month.
During the procedure, the patient will be given a special set of goggles to protect their eyes from the light beam. The site of treatment will be shaved before the procedure. The doctor might then apply a topical anesthetic to the patient's skin to reduce discomfort during the process.
A hand-held laser is then pressed against the patient's skin. When the device is activated, it sends laser beams into the patient's hair follicles. The device might have a cooling instrument attached to protect the patient's skin, or the doctor might use a cooling gel.
When the laser passes through the patient's skin, heat from the beams damages hair follicles. This inhibits their ability to grow. It is normal for patients to experience a prickly sensation on their skin whenever the device is activated.
The procedure does not take much time. Small areas like the upper lip only take a few minutes, while larger areas like a person's back can be completed in about an hour. After the procedure, the patient might experience some swelling and redness for the first few hours.
Thinking about getting laser hair treatments? Let us go over some frequently asked questions:
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic treatment that uses laser light to target and destroy hair follicles. This can result in long-term hair reduction for people who wish to remove unwanted hair from their faces, legs, underarms, or other areas of the body.
Laser hair treatments work by targeting the melanin (pigment) in the hair shaft with concentrated laser light. The heat generated by the laser destroys the hair follicle, which inhibits future hair growth.
Although laser hair removal can result in a long-term reduction of unwanted hair, it is not considered a permanent solution. Some people may need to undergo multiple treatment sessions to achieve their desired results.
Most people suffer only minor side effects from laser hair removal, such as redness, swelling, or itching at the treatment site. These typically resolve within a few days. More serious side effects are uncommon but can include burns, scars, or changes in skin color. People with dark skin may be at heightened risk for side effects.
Laser hair removal is usually considered safe when performed by a qualified medical professional. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks involved. Be sure to talk about your concerns with your doctor before undergoing treatment.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on preparing for your treatment, and you will need to avoid sun exposure and waxing or plucking the hair in the treatment area for several weeks beforehand.
Thanks to laser hair removal, you do not have to continually worry about embarrassing hair growths or bumps that occur when you try to remove them with a razor. At Paul C. Dillon, MD Inc, we can help you get rid of any unwanted hairs. Visit us at our Schaumburg office today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.paulcdillonmd.com or call Paul C. Dillon, MD Inc at (847) 429-3185 for an appointment in our Schaumburg office.
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