Whether you are looking to get rid of unwanted facial hair, or you want to remove unwanted leg hair, laser hair removal can help. This procedure involves exposure to pulses of laser light that destroy the hair follicle.
Preparation
Whether you are considering laser hair removal for the first time or you have had it done before, there are certain tips to follow to make sure you get the most out of your treatment. Before undergoing your first treatment, your doctor will evaluate your medical history and determine if you are a good candidate. This includes knowing your medical history and if any underlying conditions could have caused your hair to grow too much.
You may be asked to avoid shaving and waxing for up to two weeks before your appointment. You will also need to stay away from the sun for at least a few days before your session. You can use aloe vera lotion to soothe the area after your treatment. It will also help to prevent swelling and reduce redness.
The number of sessions you will need depends on the size of the area you want to treat. In general, you will need 4 to 8 treatments to achieve the best results.
Side effects
During laser hair removal, a laser beam goes through the skin and damages the follicles. In most cases, the effects are temporary. However, some people may experience side effects that last longer.
The most common side effect is skin irritation. The affected area will feel tender and red. Usually, it will disappear within several hours. A cold bath or ice pack can help reduce swelling.
Other side effects include blisters, burns, and crusting. These can occur if the area is exposed to sunlight too soon after the procedure. If you experience these symptoms, you should seek medical attention.
Laser treatments can also leave scars. These can be permanent, but they can be minimized by taking proper care of the treated area. You should use a sunscreen with SPF30 or higher for at least four weeks after the treatment.
Another possible side effect is graying of the treated hair. This is a result of the hair being thinner. If you want to avoid the side effects of laser hair removal, talk to your dermatologist about the risks and benefits of the treatment.
Skin tones that are best for laser hair removal
Traditionally, laser hair removal was not safe for dark skin tones. However, advances in technology have changed the availability of treatments for dark skin. Whether you have light, dark, or olive skin, it’s now possible to enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal.
New lasers can target the melanin pigment in your hair follicles. This allows you to achieve a permanent hair reduction. But how do you know if a laser will work for your skin? Choosing the right provider is crucial.
You should choose a practitioner that understands your specific skin type. You should also ask for a patch test before undergoing the procedure. If the technician doesn’t use the correct laser for your skin, you could experience unwanted side effects.
The latest lasers are more precise and safer to use. They also work in a wider range of skin tones. You should look for a technician with a lot of experience.
To make sure you’re a good candidate for laser hair removal, you should consult with a board-certified dermatologist. He or she can perform a Fitzpatrick Scale to determine your skin tone. This will tell the aesthetician how your skin reacts to the UV rays of the sun.
Areas of the body
Having laser hair removal done on any part of the body is a good way to get rid of unwanted hair. It can be a great way to improve your self-image. It can also help with pigmentation problems that often occur with unwanted hair. It is safe, and the results are generally very good.
The best areas for laser treatment are the bikini line and the underarms. These areas are usually dark, and the laser can easily target these hairs. The contrast between the skin and the hair color makes it easier for the hair to absorb the heat.
The legs are also a common area for laser treatment. The legs are typically thicker, and therefore will take fewer treatments to remove than the other body parts. The legs are known to be more sensitive than the face, so a topical numbing cream can be applied to prevent discomfort during the treatment.
The neck is another area that can be safely treated with a laser. Some people are also able to get the hair removed from their sideburns.