Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses pulsed laser energy to remove unwanted hair from a targeted area, while leaving surrounding skin unharmed. Common areas on which laser hair removal is performed are the chin, upper lip, chest, underarms, back, bikini line and legs.
Although there are many temporary treatments, including tweezing, shaving, using depilatory creams and waxing, to remove unwanted hair, patients seeking more permanent and less irritating/painful methods are frequently good candidates for laser hair removal. Through what is a safe and usually painless procedure, hair can be removed from nearly any area of the body (the eye area is an exception because of the possibility of serious eye damage).
Candidates for Laser Hair Removal
Because the laser beams used to remove hair target its melanin (pigment), the best candidates have dark hair and light skin. Conversely, those with blond, red, gray or white hair and dark skin are usually not good candidates. Recent technological advances have made laser hair removal for those with dark skin more successful, while techniques for using lasers to effectively remove light-colored hair are being investigated.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
There are many benefits to having unwanted hair removed through the use of laser therapy. They include the following:
- Hair is precisely targeted
- Procedure is quick
- Results are permanent (for 90 percent of patients) or long-lasting
For many patients, laser hair removal is painless, although some experience minor discomfort, usually described as something like a rubber band's snapping against the skin.
Laser Hair Removal Procedure
Laser hair removal is performed while the target area is numbed by a topical anesthetic. A handheld device that emits intense laser pulses is moved across the area, focusing on individual hair follicles. There are several different methods of laser hair removal, some of which combine laser impulses with radiofrequency. The appropriate method for each patient is decided in consultation with the physician administering treatment.
Hair growth takes place cyclically, in three stages. The most effective laser hair removal takes place during the andogen (full-growth) stage, because the hair follicles in this stage are susceptible to laser energy. But, because all hair is not in the same stage of growth at any given time, several laser treatments, usually between three and five, spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, are necessary. To some extent, the length of treatment depends on the texture of the patient's hair, and the location from which it is being removed.
Recovery from Laser Hair Removal
Some redness, soreness or swelling may occur immediately after laser hair removal, but they almost always disappear within a few days. Cold compresses or ice packs, moisturizers, and anti-inflammatory creams may minimize discomfort. Sun exposure should be avoided as much as possible for some period of time.
Complications of Laser Hair Removal
The most common complication of laser hair removal is the regrowth of the unwanted hair. Frequently, however, the hair that regrows is finer and lighter than the hair that was removed. Usually, regrowth can be addressed with a few additional treatment sessions. Other complications that may arise after laser hair treatment include skin irritation such as blistering and crusting; changes in pigmentation or texture of the skin; and scarring at the removal site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser hair removal permanent?
- While laser hair removal is highly effective at reducing hair growth, it's not considered truly permanent; it offers long-term hair reduction rather than complete and permanent removal.
- How it works: Laser hair removal works by targeting hair follicles with laser light, damaging them and inhibiting future hair growth.
- Long-term reduction, not permanent removal: Laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, but some hair may regrow over time, though it's often finer and lighter than before.
- Multiple treatments are needed: You'll typically need a series of treatments (4-6 sessions) to achieve optimal results, and maintenance treatments may be necessary to maintain the results.
- Factors affecting results: The effectiveness of laser hair removal can vary depending on factors like hair color, skin tone, hormonal fluctuations, and the area being treated.
- Maintenance sessions: Some people may require maintenance sessions to keep the area free of hair, while others may find that they don't need touchups for years.
Are there any side effects from laser hair removal?
- Pain.
- Bruising and swelling.
- Redness, inflammation and blistering.
- Herpes simplex outbreaks and bacterial infections. Please let your provider know if you have a history of HSV
- Temporary skin lightening or darkening.
- Darkening/lightening of tattoos.
- Freckle loss or lightening of moles.
How many sessions will I need?
- For optimal laser hair removal results, most people need 6-8 sessions, spaced 4-8 weeks apart, but the exact number can vary based on individual factors like hair type, skin tone, and the area being treated.
- General Recommendation: i. Most clinics recommend a course of 6-8 sessions to achieve optimal results.
- Factors Influencing Session Count:
- Hair Type: Thicker, coarser hair may require more sessions.
- Skin Tone: Darker skin tones may require more sessions.
- Treatment Area: Larger areas or areas with rapid hair growth may require more sessions.
- Individual Hair Growth Cycle: Hairs grow in cycles, so multiple sessions are needed to target hairs in the active growth phase.
- Timing of Sessions: Sessions are typically spaced 4-8 weeks apart to allow for hair growth cycles, depending on area.
Is laser safe for private parts?
Laser hair removal to pubic area It is absolutely safe to have laser hair removal to your pubic area. The laser selectively targets only the growing hair follicle which is located very superficially beneath the surface of your skin. There is no risk at all to your reproductive organs.