Laser Hair Removal - What to Know Before Getting One!

Body hair are typically seen as an unwanted attribute. For this reason, both men and women are constantly trying to keep their body hair free. Common ways of removing body hair include shaving, waxing and the use of Depilatories. However, none of these techniques can permanently remove hair and hence need to be repeated regularly. The only way to permanently reduce body hair is through laser hair reduction therapy.

Laser hair reduction can be used to address and reduce hair on almost any part of the body including the face, arms, chest, back, legs and bikini line. This procedure involves focusing laser light on the hair follicle pigments known as melanin without affecting the surrounding skin. The melanin absorbs this light energy and converts it to heat energy which in turn stops the stem cells in the hair roots from regenerating and burns the roots off. This weakens the hair follicles to the point of falling off. 

Hair removal is considered permanent when the hair follicles do not grow back. After the first session, new hair growth is often lighter and less dense than before. On an average, long term hair reduction may require multiple sessions. Since laser therapy can be used to address only those follicles that are in the growing phase, these sessions are usually spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. During this time the hair follicles that were in the resting phase can grow out. The number of sessions required also depends on the quality and number of hair follicles, individual’s hormone levels, and metabolism. In some cases where hair growth is very dense, maintenance treatment may be required once in six months or annually. 

The procedure is relatively pain free. During the treatment, the patient may experience a faint prick or sensation of warmth. When treating sensitive areas, topical anesthesia may also be used. This form of laser therapy can take anywhere between 5 to 45 minutes for a single session depending on the amount of area being addressed. 

Laser hair removal is considered a very safe procedure and has minimal side effects if done under supervision and by a trained technician. In some cases, it may cause a temporary change in the colour of the skin of the treated area, but this usually resolves itself without medication. This can be prevented by using a good sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection and avoiding exposure to sunlight.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!