The main concept in laser hair removal is called selective photothermolysis. A specific wavelength laser and pulse duration heat the hair follicles hence, causing damage. The laser does not affect the surrounding normal skin. Hair shafts have 2 types of pigments which are eumelanin and pheomelanin. These pigments give the hair its brown, black, blonde or red colour. White or blonde hair does not respond well to the laser. Lasers also work better on coarse hair. The best response and positive changes are seen in fair-skinned people with dark hair colour. The laser acts permanently to remove unwanted hair through a stable reduction of the hair regrowing following the procedure. Laser treatments for hairs are to remove any unwanted body or facial hairs permanently.
Hair removal using YAG laser results in permanent hair removal. The YAG laser reduces the number of hairs. This can be done in touch up sessions. Total hair in an area reduces following the number of treatment sessions. Areas which can be treated are:
- Face
- Legs
- Arms
- Beard bumps
- Underarms
- Back
- Areola
- Bikini areas
Is the treatment painful?
Before the procedure, the doctor will cut the hair in the targeted areas as close to the roots as possible. A topical anaesthetic can be used in pain-sensitive areas like the face. Sometimes a cooling gel is also used in certain areas to reduce discomfort. During the procedure, you will only feel slight discomfort from the laser.
You should use a moisturizer and sunscreen following laser hair removal. Avoid makeup as long as there are still blisters on your skin. Avoid direct sun exposure for at least one-month post-treatment. Laser hair removal treatment is a permanent form of hair removal. This procedure is more expensive in comparison to the other methods.
The number of sessions depends on a few variables such as :
- Type of hair colour
- Size of the target area
- Type of hair texture
- Sun exposure during the period of treatment
- Hair growth rate
Following the laser treatment, the skin would appear sunburn for the next few days like you have been on a vacation to an island but moisturizers and sunscreens can reduce the effects.
The most common side effect is that the hair may be resistant to laser treatment. The other usual side effects following a laser hair removal include:
- Skin irritation. The short duration of discomfort, redness, and swelling are possible following laser hair removal. Any clinical features usually disappear within several hours following laser treatment.
- Pigment changes. Laser hair removal might affect the skin tone by darkening or lighten it, usually temporarily post-treatment. Skin lightening primarily affects those who have darker skin, especially if an incorrect laser is used in an incorrect setting, hence its always best to go to a certified beautician.
- Other side effects are blistering, crusting, and scarring. The targeted hair might turn grey following laser treatment. In some cases, hair grows excessively in the treated areas.
Laser hair removal treatment is not recommended near the eyes, due to the possibility of severe eye injury during or post-treatment. Before getting any treatment done get consulted through a qualified doctor for best outcomes. Laser treatments for hairs are effective in removing any unwanted body or facial hairs permanently.
