What is laser hair removal
Laser hair removal is a noninvasive way to reduce or remove unwanted body hair. Laser light pulses are used to target hair follicles and kill the ability to create hair. The laser light targets the dark areas of the hair follicles while leaving the lighter skin areas untouched. Laser hair removal as a technology is over 40 years old. It started in the 1960s. So after four decades of development people want to know: does laser hair removal work?
The process was developed experimentally in the 1960’s and became commercially available in the 1990’s. Over the past decade, the efficacy of the procedure has increased as technology has been developed. Today, laser hair removal is one of the top five procedures in the United States and the most popular means of hair removal for darker complexioned individuals.
How does laser hair removal work
The laser hair removal process uses pulses of laser light to destroy the hair follicle and thereby stop hair growth. Specifically, hair is removed by using selective photothermolysis. This means that the laser light is focused to a specific wavelength of light and pulse duration to target specific kinds of soft tissue. In our case, it means targeting melanin and thereby heating up the basal stem cells in the hair follicle. These are the cells responsible for hair growth. The end result is a dead hair follicle that no longer produces hair. You can also check wikipedia for a history of the laser hair removal process
What do I need to know
Laser hair removal is generally an easy procedure to do. There are a few rules that will keep you safe and increase the effectiveness of the therapy.
Do not sunbathe or spend a lot of time outdoors prior to the procedure
The treatment is ineffective and sometimes dangerous if attempted on deeply tanned or sunburned skin. Staying indoors four weeks prior to the appointment is advised.
Waxing reduces the efficacy of the treatment
Because laser hair removal targets hair follicles, waxing and other methods of pulling out hair remove the follicles and reduce the efficacy of the treatment. For best results it is advised to shave, but stay away from waxing and other similar treatments.
Avoid aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs
NSAIDs and aspirin can cause increased bleeding and may cause complications with the procedure. For best results, these should not be taken at least 24 hours before the procedure. You should also discuss this with your doctor.
Avoid irritating the skin
To ensure the procedure is as painless as possible, we caution our clients to stay away from skin irritants and other chemicals that may dry out the skin or cause irritation. Doing this helps to make the procedure as painless as possible.
Ready for an appointment?
If you have been considering laser hair removal as a treatment option, there is no better time begin! Laser hair removal is a great way to safely remove unwanted hair permanently. Our clinics offer a free consultation to help you understand the process and prepare for the treatment. When the time is right, give us a call!
