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Laser Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal  

Laser hair removal has over the years grown to become a ‘go–to’ hair removal technique. Technological advancements have made the procedure a better and safer alternative electrolysis. Although the laser removal isn’t permanent, if done correctly, the results typically last for years. It is one of the most popular pre-wedding treatments. The hairs that re-grow often become thin and sparse. To reduce the chances of a side effect and get the most of your laser hair removal technique, here are some helpful tips on what to do before and after your procedure:

Before the treatment

Typically your laser hair removal begins with an appointment or a consultation. Your appointment should be around 10 – 20 minutes long. During this period, your doctor will perform a background check on your medical history and fully explain how the treatment will proceed.

The laser procedure is often most successful with individuals with light skin and dark hair due to the contrast that can help scan your hair clearly. However, it doesn’t imply that those with dark skin and blond hair can’t receive the treatment. During this 10 – 20 minutes consultation, your doctor should help you understand the risks and benefits involved.

Guidelines

Now that you’re ready for your laser hair treatment, here are some guidelines to help maximize your results. (Note – your Doctor may give you advice specific to your needs so this is general guidance only).

  • Before committing to therapy, always schedule an in-person appointment with your doctor. An expert doctor can evaluate your eligibility and estimate the number of treatments you may require.
  • Discuss the prescriptions you are presently taking during your appointment. Some drugs might induce photosensitivity, resulting in burns.
  • Stop using skincare products containing active chemicals such as retinoid, salicylic acid, hydroxyl acid, and benzoyl peroxide.
  • If your legs are pale, your procedure will be more effective. Better outcomes are achieved when there is a greater difference between your skin and hair follicles. Schedule your treatments for the autumn or winter, or avoid all types of tanning (including natural sun tanning, tanning beds, spray tans, and self-tanning products) for 6 weeks before your procedure. Laser treatments on tanned skin might cause pigmentation problems in the long run.
  • Avoid plucking, waxing, or bleaching your hair for 6 weeks before your session, since this will reduce the efficiency of the laser removal.
  • The day before your therapy, shave. Shaving causes the hair follicle to reach its active growth stage, which is great for laser targeting. Shave the area(s) to be treated within 24 hours before your visit. You should not wax or pluck your hair. Shaving gets rid of longer hairs while leaving the root intact. Because the laser targets the root of the hair, the root must be present for your procedure to be effective.
  • Take a shower soon before your session and clean the treatment area thoroughly, removing any debris and oil from the skin. After cleansing, avoid using any skincare products.
During the treatment

The area that requires attention will be clarified by your doctor before the laser hair removal begins. For instance, if you are treating a facial area or a bikini line, your doctor may sketch a line that indicates the procedure boundary.

As your doctor keeps you abreast of what to expect, the treatment section will be prepared and cleaned. The sensation of the laser hair removal procedure is quite relative and varies from person to person. While some people describe the feeling as a rubber band being snapped against their skin, if the pain is a big deal for you, then a numbing cream can be used on the section of treatment.

While sections of your body that are being treated must be exposed, all other parts of your body will be covered with your clothing or strategically positioned sheets, akin to a massage. Everyone in the room, including you, will be wearing protective eyewear throughout treatment. This does not mean you will not see lightning flashes, but it does mean your eyes will be protected.

After the treatment

Redness and swelling of the skin is the most common side effect of the laser hair removal treatment. You may also experience irritation of the skin, bumps like nettle stings or feel like you have mild sunburn.  After 24 – 72 hours any side effects should resolve themselves naturally. During this time you can use aloe Vera to reduce any discomfort.

In the coming weeks, you may begin to notice patchy re-growth. Don’t fret, each of our hair follicles has different growth cycles.  That is why laser hair removal is done over a course of treatments.

Be sure to follow these tips immediately after your procedure:

  • Participate in any planned follow-up or maintenance sessions on time, as instructed by your doctor.
  • Avoid the sun (and tanning beds) and use a high-quality sunscreen, as Exposure to UV light can irritate the treated skin and make hair removal more difficult.
  • Avoid all forms of heat for the first 24 hours after your procedure. Hot showers or baths, saunas, steam rooms, and exercise all have the potential to cause discoloration or irritation. It is OK to return to the gym after 24 hours, but avoid the sun for up to two weeks. Ultraviolet light, such as that emitted by tanning beds, can cause blistering or severe pigmentation.
  • Spray tans and self-tanning products that are “sun-less” can be used between treatment sessions as long as they are stopped 2 weeks before your next session.
  • Should you need to remove hair between treatments, shave instead of plucking, tweezing, or waxing.
  • Exfoliate the treated skin gently 2-3 times per week using a loofah or washcloth. This reduces the likelihood of getting ingrown hairs.
  • Retinoid and hydroxyl acids should not be used a week after your laser hair removal treatment. Use a mild cleanser and a calming, moisturizing lotion instead. Before arranging Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, Botox, tear trough filler treatments or dermal fillers, wait at least up to 14 days.

Thanks to Canada Medlaser for the article

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