In this post, we are answering all your questions about laser hair removal.
Ready? Let’s delve right into it.
What is laser hair removal?
When you go in for laser hair removal, your dermatologist will use a machine that delivers pulses of laser light to remove hairs on your body.
The light from the laser destroys the hair follicles from which your body’s hair grows.
The concentrated light from the lasers can target stubborn and coarse hairs without destroying skin cells.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
No. Because the lasers target and destroy hair follicles, removing hairs by lasers allows you to enjoy smooth skin for a longer time than shaving, waxing, or tweezing.
Over time, the hair follicles will regenerate and the hair will grow back.
You should note however that the hair that grows after you have had laser hair removal several times is typically finer hair.
What can I expect before a laser hair removal appointment?
First of all, you need to discuss with your dermatologist if laser hair removal is for you.
Once you’ve determined that it is for you, you can do the following:
- Shave the day before your appointment.
- Do not remove any hairs with tweezers or by waxing before your appointment
- Show up to your appointment with clean skin
- Avoid tanning before laser hair removal
- Heed the specific advice of your doctor before your appointment
What can I expect after a laser hair removal appointment?
After your appointment, you may notice some redness and swelling in the areas where you had hair removed.
This is normal.
Usually, you can ease the discomfort by applying ice or a cold compress to the area.
Your doctor may also prescribe a painkiller or apply a topical steroid to reduce the pain.
How permanent is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal slows down hair growth significantly. It does not remove the hairs permanently.
And as you know, everyone is different when it comes to how quickly hair grows.
Some people may need to return to the dermatologist every 4 weeks to ensure they get the best results.
For some people, one of two treatments may be enough to last them a long while.
Nevertheless, the point is that laser hair removal does not remove your hair permanently.
Does hair grow back after laser hair removal?
Yes, it does!
Is laser hair removal dangerous?
Laser hair removal is largely safe.
The side effects are typically minor and don’t last long.
Those side effects include redness, swelling, changes in skin color, or risk for a hair infection (from destroying the hair follicles).
If you struggle with a side effect for longer than normal, contact your doctor immediately.
Is it better to wax than get laser hair removal?
From multiple personal accounts and what has been observed since laser hair removal became commercially available in the early 1990s, laser hair removal is better than waxing.
It is more expensive than waxing and the results are longer-lasting.
Is laser hair removal worth it?
You will have to decide that on your own.
However, many people who have gotten their hair removed via lasers have loved the experience.