Few would disagree that Laser Hair removal ranks atop the list of effective ways to eliminate undesirable hair just about anyplace on the body, such as chins, legs, armpits and bikini lines. Following anywhere between three and six sessions, the majority of those undergoing this type of hair removal see upwards of 90 percent reduction levels. The freedom from shaving and waxing is, for many, truly invaluable.

What makes laser hair removal effective? The process is actually quite straightforward. This type of removal involves the use of pulses of laser light that carefully destroy follicles by targeting their melanin stores. Thus, the hair’s pigmentation absorbs the light pulses, causing sufficient damage to the follicles to drastically retard or halt growth. Given that laser light targets the melanin in hair, darker and coarser growth tends to react best to this type of treatment. However, advances in laser treatment have made it easier than ever to effectively address other types of hair.

What To Expect At A Laser Removal Session

How will a hair removal session proceed? The first step is to don protective eyewear and perhaps a topical anesthetic. Upon commencement of the laser session, there is likely to be a bit of a stinging feeling. This is evidence that the laser is now at work. The session itself will include multiple laser impulse applications that usually cause a burning or prickly sensation. Clients often report that the feeling is akin to that of a rubber band snap on the skin.

At the conclusion of the session, you might wish to use an ice pack, cold water or anti-inflammatory lotion to alleviate any lingering pain. The next session can be scheduled for 4-6 weeks after the first. Treatments will continue until the hair growth ceases, and this may take anywhere from 3-6 appointments.

Possible Side Effects of Laser Treatment

There may be some side effects of laser hair removal treatment, and these include:

Discoloration And Itch

It is quite normal indeed to experience irritation of the skin right after a removal session according to Dore Aesthetics. Discoloration and itchy feelings may continue for another 24 hours, and this has commonly been described as feeling much like typical razor burn. Moisturizing products and cold compresses can be helpful in such situations. It is find to wear makeup the next day after treatment if removal was performed on the face, provided that no blistering has occurred. Should irrigation persist for more than a period of 24 hours, it is wise to contact a doctor for assistance.

Hair Shedding

Between one and three weeks after the first treatment, you may see markedly less growth and a lower need for maintenance. This is because the hair follicles are shedding hair that was already in the growth phase, known as the anogen phase. The appearance during this time is similar to blackheads or traditional stubble. Shedding can be further facilitated by exfoliation during this period.

Hair Growth Reemergence

It must be kept in mind that laser treatment will simply stop growth from follicles that were in the anogen stage at the time of the first session. Follicles that had been resting are certain to begin waking again as time passes, with hair growth to follow.

While this can be disconcerting, there are ways to hasten the process of healing. Keep reading to learn more.

Exfolitation

No less than three times weekly, scrub with an exfoliant any area where hair has been removed. Doing so helps the shedding process take place free from dead or dying skin cells. In order to prevent additional irritation, take care to do this gently.

Shaving or Cutting Re-Growth

Do not wax, pluck or tweeze any hair regrowth that you observe. The next appointment will not be for another 4-8 weeks, and it is necessary to allow the hairs to remain in the shaft so that the laser can be effective at that time. However, it is permissible to trim, shave or cut these hairs as needed. It is also fine to utilize chemical-based depilatory products in the interim, but these should not be used any later than two days prior to the next session.

Apply Sunscreen

Because skin should be as light as it can be at the time of treatment, sunscreen is a must. If a sunburn should happen, the skin will have increased irritation in addition to what has already occurred due to laser exposure. Utilize sunscreen products with at least a 30 SPF for at least two weeks prior to and following removal sessions.

Monitor All Medications

Whenever a prescription drug, herbal remedy or over-the-counter medication is needed, make sure to discuss ongoing laser hair treatments with your physician. Also contact the hair removal technician to make sure that no contraindications are present. If necessary, hair removal appointments can be rescheduled to accommodate medical needs.