The advent of laser hair removal technology in the 1990s has become a gentle and effective method of removing unwanted hair from small and large areas. The speed of the treatment as well as its permanence makes it so widespread and trusted.
Hair follicles are directly targeted by laser light in laser hair removal.
Permanent hair reduction is possible with lasers, unlike temporary methods like shaving, waxing, and plucking.
Identifying the structure of hair
Hair roots extend deep into the skin. A sheath of connective tissue and skin surrounds it.
During hair growth, the hair root widens into a round hair bulb.
When the hair reaches the surface of the skin, it is dead. Therefore, haircuts don’t hurt!
What is the process of laser hair removal?
Hair follicles are targeted by lasers that emit light (or photons). It is heated in the follicle, not the surrounding skin, by the cells in the root of the hair. As a result, light is naturally absorbed by dark surfaces (melanin pigments) but reflected by lighter surfaces (skin surrounding them).
Hair growth is inhibited by the heat generated by the laser in the follicle, which damages the hair root cells.
When the hair is actively growing, laser hair removal is most effective. Hair can continue growing when it is resting because it does not absorb enough laser light. Treating as many hairs as possible during the growth phase is essential, which is why a series of treatments is needed.
Growth of hair: an understanding
A hair follicle is active or resting at any given time since hair growth occurs in cycles.
When a hair follicle rests, it loses the hair it has grown, which is replaced by new hair when the next growth cycle begins.
Hair on the head grows for 4-7 years at a time, whereas hair elsewhere on the body only grows for a month or so before resting, so it doesn’t grow as long.
IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE?
Laser hair removal is appropriate for some patients based on certain factors.
Regarding how the treatment is approached, skin tone and hair color are important factors. Nd: YAG laser settings are most effective for darker skin types like Asian and Afro-Caribbean skin.
The following conditions may make you unsuitable for treatment, but we are happy to schedule a complimentary consultation to assess your suitability:
- The lower pigmentation levels in ginger, blonde, or white hair may make treatment less effective or not work at all
- Those who have recently tanned
- Those who have a history of sensitivity to light-based treatments
- Actively infected people
A LASER HAIR REMOVAL EXPERIENCE
Before having laser hair removal, what should I ask?
A few checks should precede your treatment:
- Look up the qualifications and experience of your practitioner. A medical and aesthetic register should accredit them.
- To determine the cost of treatments and how many are needed for the desired outcome, ask how many they expect you to need.
- During the treatment, ask if pain or discomfort will be minimized.
- Be sure to ask about the treatment’s risks and side effects.
- Check to see if a follow-up appointment is scheduled.
- Ask what they’ll do if something goes wrong or the results aren’t what you expected.
- Inquire about the recommended aftercare.
- Don’t proceed with treatment if you have any doubts about the safety of your treatment or the practitioner’s abilities.
During the consultation, what should I expect to be asked?
In addition to your medical history, your practitioner should ask about any medications you take. To ensure that laser hair removal is the right choice, they should discuss the results you are looking for and why you want this treatment.
They should explain why they don’t think laser hair removal is proper for you and, if necessary, discuss alternatives.
How will my treatment go?
A test dose is typically administered at your first visit by your practitioner. In this way, the skin will be assessed, and the correct laser settings will be determined.
Laser light is gently passed over the skin during treatment to absorb the growing hairs. This results in tiny, delicate hairs that are virtually invisible.
If you wear metal eyeglasses or jewelry, you may be asked to remove them before treatment. You will be asked to wear goggles to protect your eyes from laser light.
Laser hair removal is suitable for which parts of the body?
Any part of the body can be treated with laser hair removal.
The treatment can be performed on any site if the unwanted hair contains some pigmentation.
What is the expected number of treatments?
The number of treatments you’ll need will depend on your complexion, hair density, and the area to be treated. However, we recommend six to eight treatments over six to ten weeks.
Laser hair removal: how much does it cost?
Laser hair removal will cost more or less, depending on the treatment area.
Patients can choose from various packages to tailor the treatment to their needs. An estimate of the total cost of your treatment program will be provided to you at the time of your initial consultation.
Can you tell me how long a treatment should last?
There is a great deal of variation depending on the area being treated. During your initial consultation, your practitioner can advise you on this matter.
Treating a small area, such as the upper lip, may only take a few minutes. Generally, more extensive areas, like the back, take longer to treat.
What is the expected turnaround time?
It takes days to weeks for the hair to fall out, not immediately.
Repeated laser treatments are usually necessary to ensure that all hairs are captured at the correct point during growth.
What is the duration of the results of laser hair removal?
Maintaining results after the recommended number of treatments may be necessary, depending on your skin type.
At our initial consultation, we will advise you of the number of treatments based on several factors, including your hair color, skin color, hair density, and the area where your hair grows.
Is it possible to combine laser hair removal with other treatments?
Laser hair removal on the same day, in the same skin area, is not recommended. The skin should be clean and free of oil or creams before treatment.
Combining laser hair removal with tanning treatments and tanning injections is not recommended.
What is the pain associated with laser hair removal?
Cynosure clinics use 755nm Alexandrite and 1064nm Nd. Yag light-based aesthetic lasers at Melior Clinics.
Every laser system we use for a comfortable treatment has an integrated cooling system.
How does laser hair removal work? What are the side effects?
The affected area may be red and swollen for a few days.
Occasionally, crusting may develop in the treatment area, but this should also disappear within a few days. A minor tingling may occur in the first 24 hours, similar to a sunburn, which can be managed with paracetamol.
Occasionally, pigmentation changes can occur in patients with darker skin.
Do I need to take any precautions after having laser hair removal?
Following treatment, your practitioner will explain how to care for your skin.
After treatment, it may be recommended that you avoid tanning and use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
What is the permanence of laser hair removal?
Using laser hair removal, unwanted hairs are reduced in size, and their growth ability is inhibited. So, instead of permanently removing the hairs, they are reduced to such a small size that they are not noticeable.
However, maintenance treatments may ensure that results are maintained in some cases.
How can I get help if I’m not satisfied with the treatment I’m receiving?
If you are unhappy with the outcome of your treatment, you should speak with your practitioner.
To resolve any issues with the initial treatment, we recommend you visit an alternative practitioner if you are unhappy. Your safety should be your primary concern, regardless of whether this is the most cost-effective route. Choose an accredited practitioner by using a register like Save Face.
IN ADDITION TO LASER HAIR REMOVAL, WHAT ELSE CAN IT TREAT?
Laser hair removal can also treat ingrown hairs and irritated skin caused by nuisance hairs.
Suitable for all skin types and body parts, these treatments can be used anywhere.
REMOVAL OF LASER HAIR IN THE UK
Where can I find a safe clinic?
Save Face is a national registry of accredited clinics that provide non-surgical cosmetic treatments. The government, NHS England, the Department of Health, and the Care Quality Commission recognize the registration as accredited by Professional Standards Authority.
A Save Face Clinical Assessor assesses each Save Face clinic on-site based on stringent accreditation standards.
Save Face accreditation is available at all Melior Clinics clinics.
Do I have to be a certain age to have laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is not restricted to any particular age group. It is important to note, though, that reputable practitioners will not treat anyone they feel is too young or unsuitable in any other way.
Before puberty, laser hair removal treatments are not recommended because hormonal changes can affect and stimulate hair growth. Laser hair removal is an effective method for Indo-Asian patients when managing hirsute areas during puberty.
A SAFE WAY TO REMOVE HAIR WITH LASER
What are the risks associated with laser hair removal?
Despite the risk inherent in all treatments, laser hair removal is considered extremely safe when performed by a qualified professional.
Before any treatment, we will assess your skin type and desired outcome to discuss any risks.
Is laser hair removal safe for pregnant women?
It is safe for pregnant women to undergo laser hair removal, but it is not recommended to have laser treatment on the breasts or bumps.
Additional sessions may be necessary to effectively manage hair growth during pregnancy due to the increased hormone levels.
Is it safe for me to have laser hair removal while I am breastfeeding?
Laser hair removal can be performed during breastfeeding if the breast area is avoided.
If I have an infection, can I have laser hair removal?
It is not recommended to undergo treatment if you have a skin infection near or in the treatment area.
You should tell your practitioner if you have a cold or other illness. Then, they can determine whether you are safe for treatment.
What if I’m diabetic or have a heart condition? Can I have laser hair removal?
The risks associated with these conditions will be thoroughly assessed during your initial consultation.
Are laser hair removals safe for people on antibiotics?
Your initial consultation will identify any risk factors associated with antibiotic use.
Is it possible to have laser hair removal on scarred areas?
Laser hair removal can be performed on scar tissue. These areas of skin will be treated with specific Nd: YAG laser settings to ensure safety and gentleness.
Can I undergo laser hair removal if any other factors prevent it?
Before treatment, discuss any medical conditions and medications you take with your practitioner.
Laser hair removal can cause allergies.
A laser hair removal reaction is doubtful to cause an allergic reaction. Before receiving treatment, you should inform your practitioner if you have ever had an allergic reaction.
Is it safe to use laser hair removal kits at home?
Home laser hair removal kits and devices are available. When it comes to laser hair removal, only an experienced practitioner should be trusted.
