Laser hair removal is the state-of-the-art treatment for permanently reducing the amount of hair that you have. It’s a very popular treatment for patients of any age, but most commonly for people between the ages of 20 and 45.
When a patient arrives at our office asking about laser hair removal, we first look at their skin to determine if they’re a suitable candidate for it. The darker the hair, the thicker the hair, and the lighter your skin, the better these lasers are gonna work for you. In general, we will do about five treatments separated by about five weeks.
That allows for the new hair growth to come in, and we have found after five treatments, we’ve reduced the hair by about 90 or 95%. It’s also very important to ask your physician what type of lasers are being used for your skin. There are ones that are specific for darker skin. And then ones that can work on just about any skin type.
You can expect your laser hair removal to be permanent except for the face in women. This is because you don’t regenerate those follicles in, say the underarms, the bikini, the lower legs. The face is the one exception because of hormones over time.
Laser hair removal is not covered by insurance. However, the cost is usually determined by the area of your body that you’re having treated. It also depends on how many treatments you’re going to need based on your provider’s suggestions. So talk with your board certified dermatologist about the cost of laser hair removal, and they will let you know the range of prices.
Pros of Laser Hair Removal
When it comes to body hair removal, laser hair removal is one of the most popular methods. This procedure has many benefits, including long-lasting results, minimal discomfort, and faster treatment times. Let’s take a closer look at the pros of laser hair removal.
First, laser hair removal is a long-term solution to eliminate unwanted body hair. The laser energy used in this procedure damages the hair follicles, which makes it difficult for them to regrow. This means that the results of laser hair removal can last for months or even years. For some people, the results are permanent.
This makes laser hair removal a viable option for those looking for a more permanent solution to their body hair problems. Second, laser hair removal is relatively comfortable compared to other hair removal methods.
Typically, the procedure only causes a slight stinging sensation, which usually dissipates quickly. That said, the level of discomfort you experience can vary depending on your pain tolerance and the area being treated. For example, some people find the hair removal process on their face more uncomfortable than on other body parts.
Finally, laser hair removal treatments are generally faster than other hair removal methods. Depending on the size of the area being treated, the procedure can be completed in as little as 15 minutes. This makes it an excellent option for those who are short on time but still want to get rid of unwanted body hair.
Laser hair removal is relatively quick and comfortable, and the results can last for months or even years. This procedure may be the right choice for you if you are looking for a permanent solution to your body hair problems.
Cons of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a popular treatment for those wanting to get rid of unwanted body hair, but it has some potential drawbacks. Here are some of the possible cons of laser hair removal.
One of the major cons of laser hair removal is the cost. Although the cost of laser hair removal treatments can vary, it is generally quite expensive. Depending on the area being treated and the number of treatments required, the cost of laser hair removal can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Additionally, the cost can quickly add up if the patient requires multiple treatments.
Another potential con of laser hair removal is the risk of skin discoloration and irritation. Laser hair removal treatments use powerful lasers to target and destroy individual hairs. People with darker skin tones may be more prone to side effects, so it is important to speak to a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing laser hair removal treatments.
Although laser hair removal is an effective treatment for many people, not all lasers are suitable for all skin types. People with naturally darker skin tones may be unsuitable for laser hair removal treatments due to the risk of skin discoloration and irritation. Additionally, people with sensitive skin may react to laser treatments and experience skin irritation.
At-Home Laser Hair Removal
With advances in technology at home, laser hair removal is now a viable option for those seeking a more permanent solution to their unwanted hair woes. At-home laser hair removal offers several advantages over traditional methods. It is a much more efficient way to remove unwanted hair. This is because it targets specific areas of the body and can be completed in a fraction of the time it would take to shave or wax.
It is much less painful than waxing, as the laser light only affects the hair follicles, not the surrounding skin. Furthermore, it is a much more cost-effective option than professional laser hair removal treatments, as it does not require expensive and ongoing visits to a clinic.
Safety is the most important factor to consider before attempting at-home laser hair removal. Read all instructions carefully and use the device as directed to ensure that the procedure is performed correctly and safely. Know the specific laser type, as some lasers are more potent than others and may require additional safety precautions. You should also understand the potential side effects of laser hair removal, such as redness and swelling, and be aware of any potential risks.
Finally, ensure that the individual using the laser is qualified and trained in properly operating the device. Home laser hair removal can be a convenient way to achieve smooth, hair-free skin without needing expensive and ongoing professional treatments. However, consider all potential risks and follow all safety instructions before using a laser device. With proper care and attention, at home laser hair removal can be a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair and achieve smooth, healthy skin.
There are also several options for at-home treatments. Reputable brands like Tria, JOVS, Braun, and Silk’n have released devices that can be used in the comfort of your home. These are user-friendly with a lot of room given for error.
Here are a few reviews for your perusal:
- Braun Laser Hair Removal Pro 5 Review – The most popular choice for lighter skin tones
- Silkn Infinity Reviews – The most suitable for darker skin tones
- Tria 4x Review – Ideal for those with thick, dense hair
- JOVS Venus Pro – For custom treatments and skin rejuvenation
The right device will depend on your skin tone, hair color, budget, and desired features.
References:
- Casey, Angela S., and David Goldberg. “Guidelines for laser hair removal.” Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy 10.1 (2008): 24-33.
- Evans, Michelle. “A Comprehensive Study on the Safety and Efficacy of At-Home IPL Hair Removal Devices.” Healthy Beautiful, 22 Jan. 2023, healthybeautiful.com/comprehensive-study-safety-efficacy-at-home-ipl-hair-removal-devices.
- Gan, Stephanie D., and Emmy M. Graber. “Laser hair removal: a review.” Dermatologic Surgery 39.6 (2013): 823-838.
- Haedersdal, M., F. Beerwerth, and J. F. Nash. “Laser and intense pulsed light hair removal technologies: from professional to home use.” British Journal of Dermatology 165 (2011): 31-36.
- Welch, Samantha. “Is At-Home Laser Hair Removal Safe? The Complete Safety Checklist for IPL Devices.” Healthy Beautiful, healthybeautiful.com/ask-expert/is-home-laser-hair-removal-safe-complete-safety-checklist-for-ipl-devices. Accessed 29 Jan. 2023.
