Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular cosmetic trends on the market. It is relatively painless and quick and only requires a short series of visits to acquire great results. Many individuals are worrisome that the process is not completely safe. Patients should be fully aware of the ramifications of laser hair removal before undergoing the procedure. Educate yourself with the following common questions regarding permanent hair removal and the issues that go with it.
Is It Effective?
Effectiveness of laser hair removal will depend on several factors. One-hundred percent of hair is not removed in all cases. The reason for this may be due to complexion of the skin, equipment being used and the quality of the professional performing the procedure. It may be more difficult to find follicles on individuals with darker skin, thus more chances of hair being left on the skin. Consult a professional to determine your chances of achieving total hair removal.
Is It Safe?
Laser hair removal is relatively safe, but with any medical procedure, it does carry risks. Unlike x-rays, laser rays are passive and do not leave harmful residual rays in the body. However, individuals with darker complexions may experience scarring in the area in which the laser was used. Lasers use variations in color to find the hair follicles, depending on the skin complexion. Always have the specialist perform a “test patch” to see how your skin reacts before completing the procedure.
Is It Truly Permanent?
While laser hair removal is a permanent method of removing hair follicles, it may require several visits to the hair removal specialist before you acquire sufficient results. Hair follicles grow at different stages and each follicle may not be completely exposed during the initial visit. Therefore, several visits may be required to remove all hair in every stage, depending on the rate of hair growth.
Is It Painful?
Each individual has their own pain tolerance, but most do not find laser hair removal to be a painful process. Some consider the sensation as a cool burning while others say the laser feels like a pinch. During the “test patch”, individuals can get a general idea of the pain that they will endure during the procedure. If the pain becomes too much, they can ask the specialist for a mild pain reliever.
Is It a Long Process?
Laser hair removal sessions can last from just a few minutes to several hours, depending on the size of the area being treated. Smaller areas, such as the underarm or bikini area, can take as little as fifteen minutes. Larger areas of the body, such as the leg or the back, can take upwards to an hour or more. On average, most individuals require between three and five sessions to see results. A person should wait six weeks in between sessions.
Is It Expensive?
Cost of laser hair removal can vary greatly, depending on factors such as location, body size and section. For example, an average price for the removal of hair on the upper lip is approximately $50.00. Prices can go upwards to nearly $250.00 for the buttocks or back. Consult a local specialist to find out exact prices in your area. It may cost extra to receive mild pain medication or to perform a test patch.
Sources
Baylor College of Medicine: Laser Hair Removal
Columbia University Medical Center: Department of Dermatology
University of Washington: Laser Hair Removal
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