About Laser Hair Removal Treatments

If you are wondering about laser hair removal treatments as a viable option to rid yourself of that unwanted hair, you are not alone.  The laser hair removal procedure has consistently gained in popularity since its introduction in the late 1990's.  Many potential candidates have questions about laser hair removal and what they should expect during the procedure.  So, let's see if we can't answer a few of the more popular questions asked regarding a typical laser hair removal session.

What should I expect during the laser hair removal treatments?

A laser hair removal session can vary in length from a few minutes to over an hour.  The time will depend not only on the size of the area being treated, but also on what area of the body is involved. A smaller treated area, such as the upper lip, may take just a few minutes.  However, a larger area of the body, such as the back, may require several hours of treatment.  

Note:  It is important to understand that the laser hair removal procedure treats hair follicles only when they are in an active growth phase.  Therefore, how many laser hair removal treatments may be required to disable and eliminate hair follicles will depend on the timing of the treatments and the growth phase of the hair.  For the most effective results, anywhere from three to six treatments may be required to disable the hair follicles in a specific area.

Does the laser hair removal procedure hurt?

During the laser procedure, light will be delivered using a hand held instrument that is attached to a laser console.  Upon delivery of this high intensity light, a stinging sensation may be experienced.  New technology has been developed that reduces discomfort during the procedure.  Many lasers now incorporate a cooling system that automatically removes, or reduces, heat from the surface of your skin before, during and after the laser exposure.

Most laser patients describe the feeling as a slight tingling sensation and tolerate the procedure very well.  However, because some areas of the body are more sensitive than others, a topical anesthesia can be applied prior to the laser procedure.  General anesthesia or pain medication is generally not required. 

The laser hair removal procedure causes a slight charring of the hair stubble. As a result, you may note a strong odor of singed hair.  This is perfectly normal and should be expected.  

As a safety precaution, goggles are worm during the laser procedure to protect your eyes from accidental exposure to the laser light.  Afterwards, you may experience some temporary redness and swelling.

What should I expect immediately after the laser treatment?

The general appearance of the treated area immediately after the laser procedure can vary from patient to patient.  This will be dependent on the extent of the laser hair removal treatment and the patient's skin type.  Though extremely rare, side effects of laser hair removal treatments are generally minor.  If experienced, they may include swelling and redness, which will disappear in shortly after treatment.  Most people can return to their normal activities right away.

Learning about lasers and the actual procedure should put to rest any concerns you may have regarding the safety of laser hair removal treatments.  However, if you have more questions regarding your potential success with laser hair removal, we suggest that you talk to your prospective hair removal clinic specialist.