What to Expect During a Laser Hair Removal Procedure

Dealing with annoying or excess hair? Looking to do away with it for a long duration of time? If so, you should strongly consider undergoing a laser hair removal procedure. 

Wondering what hair removal treatments entail? Then you’re in the right place. Here’s what to expect during a laser hair removal procedure. 

The Effectiveness of Laser Hair Removal

First, you’re probably wondering whether laser hair removal is effective. Put simply: yes, it is. Laser hair removal eliminates hair growth for months and, in some cases, years. 

It can be used on any part of the body. That said, it’s most commonly used on the armpits, bikini line, legs, and upper lip. 

Wondering how laser hair removal works? The laser penetrates the hair follicle, eliminating the existing hair and inhibiting future hair growth. It does this without causing any lasting (or major) damage to the skin. 

You can learn more by reading this page on laser hair removal.

Potential Risks of Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is quite effective. However, it doesn’t come without its risks. Most of these have to do with skin and hair issues. 

For example, in some patients, laser hair removal will induce redness and swelling in the skin. In severe cases, it will even result in scabbing, blistering, or scarring. 

There’s also a risk of the procedure changing a person’s skin pigment color. Some patients’ skin becomes lighter after the procedure; other patients’ skin becomes darker. Note, however, that this is fairly rare. 

It’s also important to note that lasers can damage the eyes. For this reason, you should avoid laser hair removal for the eyebrows or eyelashes. 

Getting Ready for a Laser Hair Removal Procedure

There are a few things you’ll want to do to get ready for a laser hair removal procedure. This starts by finding a board-certified doctor. In particular, you’ll want a doctor specializing in plastic surgery or dermatology. 

Once you’ve found your doctor, schedule an initial consultation with them. At this consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions.

Ask any questions you might have and be sure to discuss your medical history. This will help the doctor determine whether the procedure is right for you. 

In all likelihood, your doctor will provide you with some instructions on what to do leading up to your procedure. For instance, you might be told to stay out of the sun. Or, you might be told to avoid other hair removal methods. 

Generally speaking, patients need to shave the area that’s being treated prior to the procedure. Shaving is important, as it prevents long hairs from burning the skin’s surface during the procedure. 

What Happens During the Laser Hair Removal Procedure?

We’re now ready to talk about what happens during the laser hair removal procedure. You’ll show up at your doctor’s office at an agreed-upon time. You’ll then sit in a medical chair. 

Once you’re comfortable, your doctor will press a hand-held tool against your skin in the area where you want hair removed. This tool emits laser light that passes through the skin and accesses the hair follicle. The laser’s heat damages the follicle, inhibiting hair growth into the near future. 

While the tool is being pressed on your skin, you’re likely to feel a slight stinging sensation. Note, however, that this is mild and will go away soon after the procedure has ended. 

Depending on how much hair is being removed, this procedure could take anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour. In any case, you’ll be fully awake throughout the duration of the procedure. 

Though it’s not always the case, oftentimes, a single area must be treated several times before long-term results appear. When this is the case, appointments are typically scheduled every month or so. 

Note that hairs will not fall out immediately upon meeting contact with the laser. Generally, it takes around 2 weeks for these hairs to shed fully. 

Recovering from Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Now, let’s discuss recovery from laser hair removal treatment. Generally speaking, it’s extremely mild. In fact, most patients can resume normal activities the second they leave the treatment center. 

In most cases, patients will deal with some lingering swelling and soreness. This tends to go away within 1 to 3 days. 

In the meantime, you can keep swelling at bay by applying ice packs and the like. You might also benefit from taking anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen. In some cases, doctors will even prescribe a steroid cream to help lessen the pain. 

There are also some things you should avoid after undergoing laser hair removal treatment. For instance, you should stay out of the sun as much as possible. You should also refrain from using lotions or body scrubs. 

Finally, you should avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure has ended. You should also avoid bathing and any other activities that would result in your body being submerged in water. Showers, on the other hand, are alright. 

A Laser Hair Removal Procedure Is Simple and Effective

When it comes down to it, a laser hair removal procedure is both simple and effective. Not only can it be completed in mere minutes but it will also serve to eliminate pesky hairs for months and maybe even years. While there is some irritation involved, it pales in comparison to the results of the procedure. 

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