Laser Hair Removal Demystified

Laser hair removal is touted as a procedure that removes hair permanently, but some people have longer-lasting results than others. The FDA agrees that some lasers result in permanent hair reduction, but it’s not realistic to expect perfect smoothness for the rest of your life. After the initial hair removal sessions, you can expect to have one or two touch-up treatments each year. Some patients have to follow up with electrolysis treatments to remove any stubborn hairs that remain.

The hair removal process is carried out over four to eight sessions, six to ten weeks apart. Hair grows in cycles, so hair that might be dormant at the time of your first session will start growing in several weeks later. To reduce the hair effectively, multiple treatments are needed. The exact number of sessions depends on the area being worked on, as well as the patient’s receptiveness to the treatment. People with fair skin and dark, coarse hair get the best results. Tanned patients with light hair aren’t good candidates for the procedure.

Some hair removal clinics offer discounts and guarantee their results. Doctors advise patients to steer clear of these businesses, because real practitioners don’t offer discounts. Use laser hair removal cost as a guideline; you get what you pay for. A cheap session might mean an inferior technique or an untrained provider. You can expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 per session, depending on the size of the area that needs hair removal. Small areas can cost significantly less.

Shave the area one to three days prior to the laser treatment session. Sessions can last ten minutes for an upper lip, or over an hour for a back and shoulders. Avoid using lotions or creams on the day of the procedure. The removal itself is fairly painless, but each pulse of the laser can cause some discomfort. Some patients liken it to the sensation of a rubber band being snapped against your skin. The laser removes a nickel-sized patch of hair at a time. When you’re finished, you can use pure aloe vera gel to soothe your skin.

Like any procedure, there are a few risks to consider with laser hair removal. Normal side effects include itching, redness, swelling, pain, tingling, or numbness. Some patients experience crusting, bruising, infection, or temporary skin discoloration. If any of these conditions lasts longer than three days, consult your doctor.