Using laser hair removal is a great way to reduce or eliminate unwanted hair on your body. This method of treatment can be done by a professional or at home and is very popular among both men and women. However, you should be aware of the risks of this procedure.
Treatment time
During a laser hair removal treatment, concentrated light energy is directed into the hair follicle, damaging it and preventing future hair growth. The length of a session will vary depending on the size and thickness of the area being treated, as well as the type of hair. For maximum results, you should try to schedule at least six to eight treatments. However, the number of treatments you need will depend on your skin and hair color. A medical provider can help you develop a custom treatment plan. The best part is that laser hair removal is a relatively pain-free process.
A laser hair removal session is generally 15 to 30 minutes long, depending on the size and surface area being treated. A topic anesthetic is often applied to make the procedure more comfortable. A protective goggle is also worn to keep your eyes safe from the laser beam.
A good laser hair removal treatment involves multiple treatments, each designed to target only a few hairs. Typically, you will see visible results after only two to four treatments, but a series of eight to 16 treatments may be required to reach your ultimate goal. The number of treatments you will need will vary based on your skin and hair type, but in general, you should expect to see a 50 to 70 percent reduction in the number of hairs in your targeted area.
A laser treatment can be used on any part of the body, including the legs and arms. In fact, the bikini line is one of the most popular areas for laser hair removal. It requires at least six treatments, which are usually scheduled about four weeks apart.
You will probably experience some redness and mild blistering in the treated area. It is important to note that you should not expose yourself to the sun immediately following a laser treatment. You will need to use a sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher for at least two weeks afterward. During this time, you should avoid sun exposure and tanning booths, as these can contribute to pigmentation problems in the treated area.
The number of treatments you will need to achieve your ideal hair free look will vary based on your skin type, hair color and growth rate. For the best results, it is recommended that you undergo at least four to six treatments, with a little extra attention to your neck, which can be harder to treat than other areas.
The number of sessions you will need to get the desired effect will also vary, but in general, you can expect to have at least a month’s worth of hair-free days before having to repeat the process. For the most effective hair-free days, you should wear lightweight clothing over your treated area.
Preparation
Those who are considering undergoing laser hair removal must follow several important pre-treatment guidelines. These tips are designed to ensure a safe and effective treatment.
In the two weeks prior to your laser hair removal procedure, you should avoid plucking, waxing, and sun exposure. If you do shave, make sure you shave in a clean manner. You may want to use a numbing cream or gel on un-shaved areas. You should also shave at least 12 hours before the appointment.
Avoid taking any blood-thinning medicines, including aspirin, 7 days before your treatment. If you have a history of herpes simplex virus on or near the treatment area, you should receive prophylactic antiviral therapy. If you have any underlying conditions that may affect your ability to respond to laser hair removal, such as acne, you should discuss these conditions with your physician.
If you are pregnant, it is recommended that you delay treatment until after the birth. If you are having laser hair removal for the first time, you should discuss your expectations with your doctor or esthetician.
For the day of your treatment, you should be free of makeup and cosmetics. You should also avoid tanning or self-tanning products. The sun can aggravate the treated area. If you are using sunscreen, be sure to use a broad-spectrum product that contains titanium dioxide.
After the laser treatment, you should continue to use SPF 50+ for at least two months. You should also apply aloe vera lotion to help relieve swelling. This will reduce irritation and healing after the procedure.
You should also inform your laser technician of any medical conditions or medication that you take. You should also be sure to check your technician’s credentials before you proceed with the procedure. You should also avoid sun exposure for a few days after your procedure.
In addition to these tips, you should also make sure to keep your skin clean and dry on the day of your laser treatment. This helps protect the epidermis from damage. You should avoid any warm showers or saunas before the treatment.
To prevent complications, you should also avoid shaving and waxing your area for a few weeks before your treatment. Frequent shaving can lead to irritation and hair ingrowth. To maximize the effectiveness of your treatment, you should only shave the area you are about to have laser hair removal performed. You should be prepared to undergo multiple treatments for the best results.
You should also be prepared to wait up to six to eight weeks before your next treatment. This will allow the remaining hair in your treatment area to move into the active growing phase. If you are unable to shave, you should let your technician know before the treatment.
The number of treatments you will need depends on the size of the area you want treated, the growth rate of your hair, and the density of the hair. Most clients will need four to eight treatments to achieve the maximum reduction in hair.
Aftercare
Using proper aftercare for laser hair removal is essential in minimizing the risk of adverse effects. After undergoing a treatment, you will want to follow your dermatologist’s instructions closely to ensure you are getting the best results possible. You may also be advised to use a topical anesthetic to reduce the discomfort. You should also avoid hot water, chlorine, and bleaching creams for up to 48 hours. You should also apply a sunscreen to the treated area.
The skin is very sensitive after a laser treatment. A cold compress can help minimize swelling and redness. Likewise, anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or Tylenol can ease the pain.
You should also refrain from shaving, tweezing, and threading the treated area for up to 72 hours. You should also avoid direct sun exposure for a month after the procedure. This is to avoid the risk of permanent burns or scars.
A cool gel or aloe vera may be applied to the treated area to reduce the stinging sensation. You should also avoid hot water and other forms of exercise for up to 48 hours. You should also wear a high-SPF sunscreen when outside.
For the most part, side effects associated with laser hair removal are minor. For most people, these side effects fade within a few days after the treatment. However, there is always the possibility of a more serious reaction. If you notice a new rash, redness, or other sign of irritation, report it to your provider immediately. You should also not scratch the treated skin, as this can cause blisters. You should also use a good sunscreen with SPF 25 or higher and avoid tanning beds or sunlamps.
You should also ask your provider if you should avoid any medications for a period of time. These can affect the skin’s ability to heal properly. A trained professional will ask about any medications you may be taking, and will choose the right laser for your needs.
You should also be aware that the number of treatments you need for laser hair removal is dependent on your personal response. Most people need at least six treatments to achieve their desired results. You should schedule a series of treatments about four to six weeks apart. You may need to visit the clinic more frequently to maintain your results. You can typically schedule a maintenance treatment once a year.
Using proper aftercare for laser hair removal will help your skin heal faster and prevent the possibility of any adverse side effects. You should also keep in mind that this type of hair removal is not meant for children under 12 years of age.
You should also consult a board-certified dermatologist or other experienced professional for any questions or concerns you have. They will be able to provide you with the most advanced methods and equipment to reduce the risk of side effects and achieve the best results.