Laser hair removal is a safe and effective way to permanently reduce unwanted facial and body hair. It is a highly successful treatment that can offer long-lasting results and be a great alternative to other types of hair removal, such as waxing or shaving.
This non-invasive treatment is designed to remove large areas of body hair quickly and gently. It is a popular procedure that involves using a laser to emit highly concentrated light into the root of the hair to destroy it. Laser hair removal treatment is designed to leave skin hair-free and silky-smooth for months and in some cases years. Research has shown that laser hair removal can reduce hair growth by 10-25% after the first treatment, and up to 95% after 7-9 treatments.
How Does Laser Treatment Work?
Before a laser hair removal procedure, the treatment area is thoroughly cleansed. In some cases, a numbing gel may also be applied (particularly to sensitive areas) to keep you comfortable during treatment. Protective eyewear is also required during treatment.
Treatment is delivered using a hand-help laser instrument that is pressed against the skin in the target area. When the device is activated, the laser emits a beam of concentrated light that passes through the skin to the hair follicle. The light energy is converted into heat, which damages the cells in the root of the hair and the hair follicle and helps to inhibit future hair growth. During a laser hair removal treatment, a cooling device may be used, which helps cool and protect the skin before each pulse of the laser to ensure you stay comfortable.
Initially, a series of sessions are typically recommended to ensure as many hairs are targeted during their different phases of growth. This is because hairs at a ‘resting growth phase’ may not absorb enough of the laser energy and may therefore continue to grow. Usually, 2-9 sessions are recommended that take place every 4-8 weeks. The exact number of sessions will vary depending on factors such as hair and skin color, hair density, and the area being treated. Your provider will let you know what to expect at your consultation. Maintenance treatments may also be necessary in a due course to keep the area free of hair.
What To Expect From Treatment
The procedure can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or more depending on the size of the treatment area. Although laser hair removal isn’t considered painful, it may cause some discomfort in some people, depending on the location of the treatment. Patients have described the sensation during the procedure as feeling like a rubber band being snapped against the skin or a warm pinprick as the laser pulses.
The results may be noticeable immediately following treatment, but often, it takes a few days to weeks for all the treated hairs to fall out. Most patients remain hair free for months and sometimes years. If there is hair regrowth in the treated area, it is usually lighter, finer, and much less visible than before.
Is Laser Treatment Safe?
Laser hair treatment is considered a very safe treatment when carried out by a licensed professional. It generally doesn’t require downtime, but the treated area may be a bit red and swollen initially. Usually, patients return to their normal activities straight after treatment.
The most common side effects include minor discomfort, swelling, and redness, which should only last a few days. It is possible to get other side effects, such as blistering, infection, changes to skin color, and scarring, but these are considered very rare when carried out by a licensed professional. Your provider will discuss your after-care instructions with you to help reduce the chance of complications and side effects. These include avoiding direct sunlight and tanning equipment for 6 weeks after treatment and using sunscreen daily. They may also recommend you apply a cool compress to the treated area to reduce swelling.
Who Is A Candidate For Laser Hair Removal Treatment?
Laser hair removal is most common on the underarms, bikini line, upper lip, chin, and legs. However, the treatment can be used to remove unwanted hair from almost any area of the body, apart from near the delicate eye area.
Although laser hair removal is a safe treatment when performed correctly, there are certain factors that may prevent you from being a suitable candidate for treatment. Laser hair treatments are not recommended if you:
- Have a history of sensitivity to light-based treatments
- Have recently been exposed to the sun
- Are pregnant
- Have an active infection or skin damage in the area to be treated
- Are using blood thinning medications
- Have recently used waxing or electrolysis to remove hair
Certain hair types and colors may also have an impact on the effectiveness of treatment, such as those with ginger, blonde, or white hair. Your provider will assess your suitability for treatment at your initial consultation.
Spa Laser Hair Removal, Dallas, TX
If you are looking for a long-lasting option to eliminate unwanted facial and body hair quickly and safely, visit Privé Aesthetics for affordable laser hair removal treatments. Our highly trained professionals offer a range of affordable medical spa treatments, including laser treatments, dermal fillers, Botox, microneedling, non-invasive fat removal, and much more, to help you look and feel your best.
To schedule a consultation, call us today at (817) 739-6640 or use our online appointment request form. We are based in Hillcrest Ave, Dallas, conveniently located across the street from Southern Methodist University (SMU).
