Laser Hair Removal – Everything You Need to Know

If you are considering undergoing laser hair removal, you need to do your homework. The lure of a stubble-free life can be quite appealing. However, you need to research the benefits as well as the possible side effects first. It is important to determine whether the treatment is right for you.

 

There are many benefits of undergoing laser treatment. For example, ingrown hairs can cause pigmentation and aggravate your skin. Fortunately, this treatment can help eliminate this problem.

 

From shaving or threading to waxing, there are many options for hair removal. However, laser hair removal is one of the most effective options. It offers a more effective and permanent approach to removing unwanted body hair. But before you start the hair removal course, you need to research the ins and outs of the process.

 

What to Expect

Before the treatment, your dermatologist will cleanse the treatment area. They may apply a numbing gel if the skin on the treatment area is very sensitive. The numbing gel takes about 30 to 60 minutes to work. Laser hair removal takes place in a room set up specifically for this type of treatment.

 

During the procedure, everyone in the room wears protective eyewear. The dermatologist holds the skin taut before using a laser device to treat the skin. According to many patients, the laser pulses feel like a rubber band snapping against the skin or warm pinpricks.

 

The laser vaporizes hair, causing small plumes of smoke. The treatment duration will depend on the size of the treatment area. For example, treating the upper lip can take a few minutes. Treating a large area like the legs or back can take more than an hour.

 

Warning

In inexperienced hands, this treatment can be quite dangerous. It can cause permanent changes to one’s skin color, burns, and even scars. So to minimize the risks, you need to have your treatment performed by a medical professional with thorough knowledge of the skin and experience in using lasers. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that patients choose a board-certified dermatologist.

 

What to Do After the Procedure

To avoid possible side effects of laser hair removal, you should protect your skin from the sun. After the procedure, you should also avoid using a sun lamp, tanning bed, or any other type of indoor tanning equipment. You will probably experience some swelling and redness after treatment. To reduce your discomfort, apply a cool compress.

 

Downtime

Generally, this treatment does not require any downtime. As stated above, your skin may be swollen and red immediately after treatment. However, most people resume their normal activities immediately following treatment.

 

When to Expect Results

Patients usually see results immediately after treatment. However, the results often vary from patient to patient. Some of the factors that affect the results include the color of your skin, thickness and color of your hair, and the type of laser used.

 

After the first treatment, you can expect a 10 to 25 percent reduction in hair. To get rid of unwanted hair, you may need two or more treatments. The results may last for several months or even years.


 

To learn more about laser hair removal, contact Kenneth Bermudez, MD, in San Francisco, California. You can call (415) 712-1800 today to schedule an appointment.