4 Things To Consider When Getting Laser Hair Removal

If you are sick of shaving regularly and dread the thought of your next waxing appointment, perhaps you should consider laser hair removal. Laser hair removal treatments have many pros and cons, so make sure you consider these four tips to ensure you are comfortable with the procedure and happy with the results.

What is laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal, or permanent hair reduction, is a method of treating and removing unwanted hair using a focused laser beam or light source that destroys the hair root and prevents regrowth. Cosmetic Surgery For Women are specialists in the field, providing two treatments for safe and fast laser hair removal: Cutera Prowave and Cutera CoolGlide. Any one treatment will not suit all people and skin types, so make sure you consult a professional and ask how many sessions will be required for your desired outcome.

What to do prior to treatment

Unlike waxing appointments, you need to be clean-shaven upon arrival at your laser hair removal procedure to allow for the best results. Plucking and waxing pre-treatment will mean your hair follicles aren’t in the proper growth stage for laser techniques, so ensure you have left your hair alone in the several weeks prior to your appointment. Laser hair removal can be quite an expensive process, so ensure you follow all of the necessary steps prior to treatment to ensure the best results can be achieved quickly and effectively.

Are there any side effects?

Before you have laser hair removal, you must consider the side effects that are associated with the procedure; they may have an ongoing impact on your day-to-day life in the immediate recovery period and potentially long-term. Parts of the face and body that are generally targeted by laser hair removal treatments can be sensitive, with side effects such as redness, swelling, itchiness, tingling, numbness, discomfort and skin burns all possible because of the extreme heat that’s used to remove the unwanted hair. Laser hair removal can also cause hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation, eye injuries (if they are not protected during treatment) and crusting of the skin surrounding the treatment area. Make sure you visit a specialist hair-removal team to minimise the risks of any side effects. Remember to tell your specialist about any medications you are taking or skin creams you are using in case they interfere with your treatment.

What results can I expect?

The results of laser hair surgery vary depending on complexion, hair colour and length of treatment. For permanent removal, you’ll need to make up to 10 appointments with your specialist, one every four to six weeks for maximum results. However, if your aim is to reduce hair in a certain area, rather than remove it completely, you can get away with two or three appointments over a short-term period. Traditionally, dark brown and black hair has better results than blonde and grey tones, although advances in technology have made it easier for everyone to achieve the results they want with laser hair removal. Keep in mind that the procedure may not make you completely hair-free, so ensure your expectations are aligned with professional recommendations.

Whether you are seriously considering laser hair removal or are interested in learning more about this common procedure, it is important to understand the process, side effects and results that are involved. Have you had laser hair removal recently? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.