Laser techniques are gaining popularity with people looking for permanent hair removal options. But how effective is it and what permanent really mean?
Zap Away Unwanted Hair
Laser hair removal treatment doesn't assure permanent hair removal, but it does mean that a man can be hair-free or nearly hair-free anywhere from several months to several years. Most men have laser hair removal on backs, chests and beards, but laser removal makes it possible to reduce hair in almost any area of the body. After several treatments, razor stubble and ingrown hairs won't bother you.
Although laser hair removal is considered less painful than other hair-removal methods, you may feel discomfort. Since shaved hair sits inside the hair follicle, the laser finds the pigment in your hair, targeting the follicle and killing the hair at the source. First, your body is cleaned in the region where the unwanted hairs will be removed, and a numbing cream may be applied to reduce pain. Goggles cover the eyes during the treatment to avoid exposure to the laser.
Next, the laser scans your body. The light energy travels through the skin and the pigment in the follicle absorbs the light, causing the hairs to die from evaporation. You might feel a sting at this point.
The process usually requires a total of five laser treatments, scheduled eight weeks apart. The length of the treatment varies depending on the area being treated. A small area, such as the face, could take a few minutes, but, if you're ridding yourself of a hairy back, plan on spending several hours in the office. Different hairs are in different stages of growth, so the scheduled treatments zap hair at the root. Likewise, since you'll be going back several times, the costs of laser hair removal can grow quickly.
Find the Right Doctor
To avoid complications, you should always consult with a qualified dermatologist. Laser hair removal is popular, and many laser hair removal centers and medical spas are offering the procedure, but you want anyone who is operating a laser on your skin to be a professional. The price may be higher, but affordable laser hair removal isn't good laser hair removal unless a doctor is involved.
It is important to meet with the doctor who will be performing the treatment prior to the scheduled appointment. This lets you discuss multiple topics, including his or her successful treatment of other males and the chances of successful treatment for you. During this appointment, the doctor will ask about your medical history, including any illnesses or conditions you have or have had and a list of medications you currently use.
If you have a tan, the tan must be gone before you try laser hair removal. Having a tan increases the possibility of blistering and discoloration. Exposure to the sun should be avoided for four to six weeks before the procedure.
The Importance of After Care
If you take care of your skin following a laser hair removal treatment, the amount of recovery time will be kept at a minimum. Most people who have the procedure return to normal activities soon, although exercise should be avoided for the first 24 hours since sweat can increase irritation.
Following a treatment, skin will turn slightly red and puffy, resembling sunburn. Usually the redness disappears within a few hours, and cold compresses can relieve the burn. Moisturizing cream can also help alleviate any discomfort. Any blistering or a sudden change in the color of your skin should be brought to the attention of the laser treatment staff.
Do not shave for four days following a laser treatment. Waxing, tweezing or plucking is not recommended at any time during the duration of the treatment sessions. Gentle cleansers, instead of strong soaps, should be used to clean the area. Avoid exposure to sunlight following a treatment since it can cause irritation and burning. If you must spend time outside, definitely apply sunscreen.
Risks
No matter how qualified and skilled your doctor is, certain risks are involved. Hair color and skin type are significant in determining a successful laser hair removal treatment. Since the laser looks for dark pigments when zapping the hair follicle, people with light hair may not be good candidates.
Side effects can include hair regrowth after treatment, darkening or lightening of skin pigment, or changes in the texture and color of the hair.
 | Learn about the history of hair removal, along with the pros and cons of shaving, waxing and depilatory hair removal products. |
 | If you have sensitive skin, shaving can be tricky, but you can avoid shaving bumps, redness, stinging and irritation and still get a smooth result. |
 | Kiss razor burn, unwanted hair and cuts goodbye with the shaving tips for women that will help you get a smooth, close shave every time. |
If you want to know how to prevent ingrown hairs, first take a look at how often you are shaving. Shaving too soon after the last time can result in the irritation that causes hairs to grow backward into the skin. |
Learning how to prevent ingrown hairs can help you keep your skin comfortable and free of irritation. |
