Do you want a permanent solution for getting rid of your unwanted hair? Check out this guide to getting professional laser hair removal.
Are you considering professional laser hair removal?
The benefits are attractive, but getting rid of hair for good isn’t the only thing you should consider.
Laser hair removal is a permanent solution. You’ll have to live with the results for the rest of your life.
For those with unwanted hair, this seems too good to be true. No more shaving, waxing, or plucking required to keep your youthful look!
However, hair removal by laser isn’t the right solution for everyone.
Here’s what you need to know before you go under the light:
What is Professional Laser Hair Removal?
Briefly, laser hair removal uses light therapy to kill the cells in the roots of the hair. Professionals use a specific wavelength of light which travels down the shaft of the hair to the root.
There are two types of hair removal that use light for permanent results: lasers and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). Of the two, lasers are the most accurate and effective.
Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
There’s an ongoing debate about the effectiveness of laser hair removal. Truth be told, not everyone is a great candidate for it.
The ones who see the best results typically have dark hair and lighter skin tone to give a better contrast.
Advances in recent years have increased the effect of lasers for all skin types.
Still, lighter hair colors, like blonde or grey, and red hair are still tough to treat. If you have light blonde, grey, or red hair, you might not get the results you expect.
How to Prepare for the Procedure
To get the most from your professional laser hair removal, you’ll first need to shave the area being treated. A fresh shave lets the laser focus on the hair follicle rather than the hair above the skin.
You should also wear sunscreen with zinc oxide prior to your treatment. This will help protect your skin during the laser removal process.
What not to do before laser hair removal?
If you want to minimize your risks, make sure you stay out of the sun or tanning bed. Any tan you get can affect the pigmentation of the area you’re treating.
What to Expect After the Procedure
The whole process takes only 15-20 minutes, depending on your treatment area. However, you’re not exactly finished once the laser turns off.
For starters, the treated area may sting a little after your session. Some professionals offer a numbing cream to help deflect any pain, but the area might be slightly tender when you leave the facility.
Also, a single treatment won’t be enough to remove all the hair from the treatment area.
If you want to rid yourself of unwanted body hair, be prepared to undergo a series of at least 4-5 treatments.
Also, you should know there are people whose bodies are resistant to hair removal. Even with several treatments, you may not see the results you expect.
Is Laser Hair Removal Right for You?
If you’re having misgivings about the procedure or aren’t sure if you’re a good candidate, check with your doctor. It never hurts to get a second opinion.
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