Some people feel that they have hair growth that is an issue or that has become unsightly. For those in this situation, there are a few options available to remedy this problem, shaving and laser hair removal among them. If you choose to go the laser hair removal route, then you should educate yourself about things you didn’t know about laser hair removal. Doing so may give you some peace of mind.
Plan To Have More Than One Session
You may be under the assumption that when you choose to have hair removed by a laser that it’s a one and done process. You would be sorely mistaken. There is a misconception about the term permanent hair removal. Since not all hair is at the same level of growth, multiple laser treatments are necessary to achieve “permanent” hair removal.
At the NewSkin Laser Center, they use the Palomar system because it’s fast, less painful, and less likely to burn. Pulsed-light systems work by emitting a pulse of intense lamp-light into the hair follicle. The heat loosens the hair and disables new hair growth. Hair re-growth depends on each how fast each person’s hair grows. You may return for more treatments as early as six weeks after the last treatment.
After six to eight sessions, all hair will be virtually removed. This, however, does not mean that hair growth won’t return. It does mean that you can retain this smooth and hairless state with touch-up treatments every so often, typically 6 to twelve months.
Potential Risks And Side Effects
Every action has a reaction, so you should know that laser hair removal comes with potential risks and side effects. There are a number of factors that influence risks and side effects. Some of these are skin type, hair color, and how well you stick to your treatment plan both before and after treatment. With that being said, you may experience redness and swelling, irritation of the skin and possible discomfort. These issues are usually only temporary but scarring and skin discoloration are a possibility. One thing that is not a possibility that some may fear is cancer. This is because the laser uses heat during the hair removal process, not radiation. You should talk to a clinic like Cosmedica if you have any worries prior regarding side effects and risks.
Things That You Should Avoid Doing After Laser Treatment
After you undergo a laser hair removal treatment, there are a few things that you should be aware of so you avoid doing them. The skin in the treated area will be tender and sensitive so avoid touching the area directly and wear loose fitting clothing. To prevent further irritation or infection you will also want to avoid the gym and bypass taking hot showers, jacuzzis, or steam. When it is time to bathe, be sure to stick to cool or gently warm water. Though you may be active or athletic, you will want to halt all forms of exercise until you heal and your physician gives you the ok. This time frame is usually 24 to 48 hours after you have your treatment. Some long-term things that you will want to avoid in between laser treatments are prolonging exposure to the sun or using a tanning bed. You will want to also not use fake tan lotion within a 7 day period before your next visit.
When it comes down to it, learning about the things you didn’t know about laser hair removal helps to illustrate that it is a good and viable option for hair removal. It comes with minimal risks and it is not invasive. The treatments are quick, fairly painless and the recovery time is generally not enough to affect your daily routine if you plan things out accordingly. Remember, if you adhere to the do’s and don’ts that you’ve learned and closely follow the suggestions of your physician, then a smooth, hairless life is yours to have.
