Seven Important Laser Hair Removal Facts
Say goodbye to your razor and kiss your tweezers goodbye. If
you would love your skin to be as smooth as silk, there’s a way to make it
happen. But before you sign up for laser hair removal, there are 7 important facts
you need to know.
Are you a good candidate?
If you have dark hair and light skin, the answer is yes.
People with blond or gray hair don’t get as good results. The same goes for
dark or tanned skin. In these cases lasers tend to cause discoloration unless
the instrument used is designed specifically for dark skin.
How does laser hair removal work?
Pulses of light emitted from the laser targets the melanin
pigment of the hair. The pulsing lasts
only for a fraction a second, just long enough to disable the follicle, but not
long enough to burn your skin. The melanin, or dark pigment, is broken down and
destroyed. This is why lasers are only effective on dark hair and why lasers
cause discoloration on darker skin.
After 10 to 14 days of your laser treatment the hair begins
to fall out. You can help the process by washing with a mild exfoliate around
the 10th day.
What areas can be treated with a laser?
Because several follicles are targeted at once, it’s
possible to treat large areas such as the back, chest, arms and shoulders.
Lasers can also remove the hair on the upper lip and chin.
How long does it take?
It can take up to six sessions every four weeks to see an
80% reduction in hair growth. You may need to get maintenance treatments once a
year for a couple of years at least.
Is laser treatment guaranteed to work?
Some people see better results than others so, no, the
results aren’t guaranteed. You can however, expect an 85% hair reduction. It’s
impossible to know for sure the hair re-growth rate of anyone. Some people
never have to shave again while others experience some re-growth after several
months. As technology advances the result rate is sure to improve.
Does laser hair removal hurt?
There is some mild discomfort associated with laser hair
removal. The pulse light has been described as feeling like you’re being popped
with a rubber band. Some areas hurt more than others. Experts advise taking an
over-the-counter pain reliever before the session begins.
Is laser hair removal safe?
Lasers are safely and accurately used for many medical
procedures and have been for many years.
Though there is some discomfort, it’s usually mild and doesn’t last
long. The targeted areas may show
redness immediately following treatment.
You can find out more about laser
hair removal at the Vivia Center for Cosmetic Therapy. Their qualified team will be happy to answer
any concerns you may have about the laser process.
