Dealing with excess hair growth can be annoying for all genders. Whether you’re removing that hair with a razor, a pair of tweezers, a strip of wax, and so on, it’s usually not a long-term solution. Laser hair removal is a viable option for people of all genders who want to remove excess hair. The treatment at Rocky Mountain Laser Center at CSDERM, Colorado Springs, CO, is safe for a range of skin tones and hair colors.
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What is Laser Hair Removal?
The goal of laser hair removal is to use a laser to damage hair follicles so they won’t grow anymore. A laser’s concentrated light is absorbed by the melanin in the treated hair, damaging follicles so they won’t grow anymore. You may notice that the hair in the treatment area stops growing. It is very common for your hair to start growing again, although it might look different, and you will probably notice it has grown more slowly than usual. The treatment is often repeated a few times, so hair may grow back more slowly and eventually stop growing. Laser hair removal targets hair follicles, not the skin surface, which helps keep the treated area hair-free.
Resource: webmd.com
Patients can expect fewer or no ingrown hairs when treatments are scheduled properly and not done too frequently.
Laser hair removal can effectively treat multiple areas of the body, including:
- Face
- Arms
- Legs
- Back
- Chest
- Pubic area
Why is Laser Hair Removal So Popular?
This laser treatment can save a lot of time for people who remove hair with a razor or tweezers. Also, many people find that hair grows back softer and smaller after laser hair removal. The procedure is effective and convenient for the following reasons:
Accuracy: Laser is a thin beam, and it works only on dark, coarse hairs without injuring the surrounding skin
Fast: The laser can treat a patch the size of your lip in a few minutes, or a large area like your back or chest in an hour
It lasts: After several treatments, most patients experience a permanent loss of hair, especially dark, coarse hair.
Ingrown hairs are avoided: Many people who shave or use wax to treat excess hair can get ingrown hairs
Laser hair removal is practical: After several sessions, you shouldn’t need to use shaving wax anymore
Resource: medicalnewstoday.com
Get Ready for Laser Hair Removal
Here are some helpful hints to follow if you are considering laser hair removal. Following them will help your treatment to work better and minimize discomfort during the procedure:
Stay out of the sun: Avoid tanning or sunburn for laser hair removal and any sun exposure or tanning for the past four weeks
Shave your skin: Shaving removes hair on the skin’s surface, but it leaves the follicle alone so the laser can do its work. The skin should not be waxed or tweezed for at least 6 weeks prior to treatment
Wash your skin: Wash the treated skin on the day of the appointment. No lotions, creams, or deodorant if the underarms are being treated
Check your history with a doctor: Before any laser treatment, you should review your skin, any medical conditions you have, and any medications that might affect your skin
It is important to tell your health care provider about any medical problems that could interfere with treatment.
What Happens During a Session?
The doctor will use the handheld device during the laser treatment and then direct the laser beam onto the skin while using protective eyewear to ensure the proper laser setting. Patients usually report mild irritation, like a tiny sting or pinprick. The device will have a cooling tool to reduce skin discomfort. It will take 15 minutes for a treatment area like the upper lip. Large areas, such as the back or legs, may take an hour. Hair grows in cycles, and you will need laser hair removal treatments on the area over a period of months.
What Happens After a Laser Treatment?
After undergoing laser hair removal, it’s common to experience some temporary redness, swelling, or tenderness in the treated area. These effects usually fade in just a few hours or a couple of days.
To keep your results looking good and help your skin heal properly, try sticking to these simple steps:
- Stay out of the sun: Steer clear of direct sunlight and always wear sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Be gentle with your skin: Avoid harsh scrubs or chemicals for at least a few days after your appointment.
- Skip waxing or plucking: Let the hair fall out on its own between appointments.
- Moisturize as needed: If your skin feels dry or irritated, try a fragrance-free, mild moisturizer.
How to Choose a Laser Hair Removal Provider
Selecting a reputable laser hair removal provider is the most essential part of a successful treatment plan. When you’re looking for a provider, be sure to check if they:
- Are a licensed provider
- Can show that they have experience working with multiple skin types and hair colors
- Use FDA-approved laser systems
- Provide a complete overview of the recommended treatment, including the number of visits and follow-up tips
Your provider at Rocky Mountain Laser Center will get to know you and your skin so that they can build a laser hair removal plan just for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Hair Removal
How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?
Most patients need 6–8 laser hair removal sessions, done 4–6 weeks apart, for the best possible results. Keep in mind that your body’s natural hair growth cycle plays a big role, so you may need more treatments after your initial series.
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
For many patients, this laser procedure only feels like a rubber band snapping on the skin. There are ways to reduce pain or discomfort during treatment, and newer cooling technologies and devices can help soothe the skin.
Can Laser Hair Removal Get Rid of Unwanted Hair Forever?
While you will certainly notice some long-lasting hair reduction, the exact results will vary based on factors such as your skin type, current hormone levels, and hair color. Some patients require regular maintenance sessions to maintain optimal skin texture.
Do I Have Any Downtime After Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal has very little or no downtime, and the most you’re likely to experience is slight swelling and redness in the hours immediately following the session. These usually settle in a day or so.
Can I Have Laser Hair Removal on Sensitive Areas?
Yes, when done by an experienced, trained professional. Laser hair removal can be used on a wide variety of body regions, from the face and underarms to the legs and bikini area.
Final Thoughts
Laser hair removal offers a long-lasting, effective way to reduce or eliminate unwanted hair. Do your research, work with a skilled professional, and follow aftercare guidelines, and you can achieve smooth, lasting skin with much less effort than shaving or waxing. Contact Rocky Mountain Laser Center to schedule an appointment.