Diode lasers are also called “cold lasers” because they use low-level lasers to target unwanted hair growth in the same way IPLs do; however, diode lasers require less energy than IPLs so they’re safer for those with sensitive skin types. Alexandrite lasers use infrared wavelengths of light that target dark pigmented hairs such as those found on African American skin types; this makes them ideal for people who suffer from melasma or hyperpigmentation problems such as sunburns from previous years’ vacations in tropical climates Read on to learn more about Best Home Laser Hair Removal System, How Long Does it Take to See Results? and How Does A Cream Work For Hair Removal?
The best home laser hair removal system is the one that works for you. That’s why we’ve researched, tested and reviewed hundreds of products to find the best ones. There are three main types of laser hair removal machines: IPL, diode and Alexandrite. Each of these has their own pros and cons and it’s important to know what they are before you buy a machine. IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, which uses flash lamps to target hair follicles under your skin surface and destroy them. These machines can be used on all skin types but work best on light or dark brown hair follicles, as they’re more effective at targeting these colors than blondes or reds.
Best Home Laser Hair Removal System
The thought of a life without constant shaving, waxing, or sugaring sounds amazing. Just imagine all the free time you’ll have without having to make monthly wax visits to your favorite esthetician. Plus, you could kiss red bumps and ingrown hairs goodbye.
Thankfully, laser hair removal has never been safer or more effective for all skin and hair types — but, that doesn’t mean it’s easy or painless.
So before you book your first appointment, there are a few details dermatologists would like you to consider.
That’s why we tapped three of the best in biz to lay down the laws of laser hair removal to ensure you have the safest, and most effective, experience possible.
How Does Hair Removal Work?
“Any type of laser treatment is basically the use of a fancy light,” explains Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a NYC-based cosmetic dermatologist. “When we want to target the hair, we use wavelengths of laser light that targets the pigment that’s found in hair, without hurting the surrounding normal tissue.”
Thanks to major advancements in technology, there are now many different types of lasers with various wavelengths to hone in more precisely on the pigment deep in the skin, where the hair root and follicle live, to damage the follicle and slow down future hair growth.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe for Everyone?
Although the newest lasers are able to more accurately distinguish deep hair follicle pigments from superficial skin pigments, those with deeper skin tones should still take extra precautions when researching practitioners and the lasers they use.
“People with skin of color have larger and more numerous melanosomes, which package melanin,” explains Dr. Hope Mitchell, founder of Mitchell Dermatology in Ohio and Chair of the NMA Derm Research Committee, which represents African American physicians and their patients. “In patients with darker skin types, melanin is dispersed throughout the upper layers of the skin and it will compete with melanin in the hair to absorb the laser energy.”
This can be avoided by ensuring that the right laser with the correct wavelength is used for your skin color.
Dr. Eva Simmons-O’Brien, a board certified dermatologist and assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University, recommends the Nd:YAG lasers for all skin types, and especially for those with darker skin tones.
“They have the ideal wavelength for darker skin types, types 4 to 6, because they bypass the melanin in the skin and target hair follicles or collagen below in the mid to deep dermis,” says Dr. Simmons-O’Brien. She also adds that patients of color should not only confirm ahead of time that their desired dermatologist has the modern laser, but should ask their dermatologist to perform a spot treatment first to see how their skin reacts and heals.
“This is not the time to coupon shop,” reminds Dr. Mitchell, who suggests researching the practice prior to the appointment. “Don’t be afraid to ask, ‘How many people with skin of color have you treated?’ or ‘Why do you believe this laser is safe for my skin type?’ Ask if there have been side effects from the laser treatment and how were they handled.”
And above all, advises Dr. Mitchell, “Never be afraid to get a second opinion before making your final decision.”
How Should I Prepare for My Appointment?
Most dermatologists will ask you to shave the area you’re going to have treated 24 to 48 hours before the session to ensure no hair is visible, which minimizes the likelihood of inflammation. It’s important to also avoid exfoliation and tanning prior to sessions, which can make skin more sensitive.
Additionally, those with darker skin tones should stop all acid-based cleansers, peel pads, and topical retinoids four to five days before their treatment. Vitamin C or any other brightening products should also be avoided two days before treatment, according to Dr. Simmons-O’Brien.
“Patients of color should make sure to tell their dermatologist if they have a history of fever blisters (HSV), so that they can be prescribed prophylactic antiviral treatment,” she also recommends.
How Painful Is Laser Hair Removal?
“Most of the time, no gels or topical anesthesia are required,” says Dr. Frank. “[It’s] a relatively routine, painless procedure.” However, the sensation from the laser on the skin can range from a suction to a snapping rubber band, while others have an air conditioning-like effect to cool the skin and balance the laser’s heat.
However, for people of color, this can vary. “Even on appropriate settings with the laser, darker skin will retain more heat than lighter skin [tones],”says Dr. Simmons-O’Brien. She advises that immediately after the procedure, a topical steroid should be applied to the treated area followed by an ice compress for 10 to 15 minutes to cool down the skin.
Simmons-O’Brien also suggests that patients with darker skin tones apply “a liberal application of sunblock after the procedure and reapplied throughout the day.”
But regardless of your pain tolerance, the good news is that depending on the body area, the appointment is typically quick, with underarms and bikini averaging about ten minutes, while legs and back require about thirty, according to Dr. Frank.
How Long Does it Take to See Results?
You’ll see a noticeable difference in hair regrowth after the first session. But keep in mind that this isn’t a one-and-done deal. A good rule of thumb is to expect one session per month for five or six months, depending on your hair type, with hair becoming fewer and finer after each subsequent session. However, it is important to keep your own expectations in check, as the process is FDA-approved only as permanent hair reduction.
“Hair grows in cycles and hair follicles don’t grow at the same time. I would say for most people, a realistic expectation is a 90% removal at completion,” explains Dr. Frank. “You can expect people with darker skin tones to be more like closer to six [sessions] and people with fair skin closer to four.”
Are There Any Risks Associated with Laser Hair Removal?
“Laser is heat and any laser procedure comes with the risk of burn, blistering, changes in color of the skin,” says Dr. Frank. “Using the right laser for the right skin type, as well as the right person performing it is the most important thing. Older school lasers are still uncomfortable and that’s when people need numbing gels and topical anesthesia.”
Darker skin tones are especially sensitive with a greater risk for adverse side effects.
“If the incorrect laser or laser settings are used, the energy beam may additionally be absorbed by melanin in darker skin, putting you at risk for side effects such as hyper or hypopigmentation,” says Dr. Mitchell, who stresses the importance of choosing a practitioner with experience treating patients of color. “Persistent post-treatment redness, swelling, blistering, pain or open sores would be concerning when treating people with darker skin types.”
What Do I Need to Know About Aftercare?
With laser hair removal, timing is everything. The procedure’s only post-procedure golden rule is to avoid the sun, at least for two weeks, but preferably until the entire months-long process is completed.
“It’s in your own best interest to avoid the sun throughout the whole process, because it limits the efficacy of the treatment,” explains Dr. Frank. He typically advises patients to begin treatments in the cooler autumn months.
Dr. Mitchell tells her patients with darker skin tones to use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer for five to seven days post-procedure until their skin has calmed down, then it is safe to reintroduce any active skincare.
How Does A Cream Work For Hair Removal?
These hair removal creams work on the basic principle of breaking down the keratin structure of the hair. These creams comprise of chemicals (the combination of calcium thioglycolate and sodium hydroxide) that are highly alkaline in nature and break down the protein structure of the hair. Due to this, the hair structure starts to dissolve and becomes thin and weak to fall loose from its follicle in less than 10-15 minutes.
Disadvantages Of Using Hair Removal Creams
Undoubtedly the hair removal approach from depilatory creams is quick, easy, and cost-effective. In spite of that, this hair removal method is not accepted by most of the men and women. This is because of the disadvantages they have. These disadvantages include –
- Skin irritation and burning: Due to the harsh chemical composition, these creams may cause skin burning or irritation. When used in the sensitive areas, such as genitals, it requires extra attention and care.
- Allergic reaction: The hair removal creams do not suit everyone. If your skin is sensitive, you must not use this method of hair removal at all as it may cause allergies.
- Foul smell: Almost all hair removal creams leave a very pungent smell right from the time when applied. This smell doesn’t leave for hours even when the cream has been wiped off.
- Not suitable for all body parts: As these creams comprise of strong chemicals, these are to be applied very carefully. These creams should not come in the contact of your eyes, nose, and other open areas.
- Not enough longevity: The creams do not offer a smooth skin for a longer time. The hair growth reoccurs in a few days.
- Not a permanent solution: It is not a permanent solution at all.
Hair Removal Creams Vs Laser Hair Removal
Knowing about their disadvantages, it must be clear that hair removal creams are not a permanent solution to get rid of your hair; it is just a quick fix. This section of the article is dedicated to a comparison between two hair removal techniques: Laser Hair Removal and Hair Removal Creams.
| Aspect | Laser Hair Removal | Hair Removal Cream |
| Acceptance | Dermatologist recommended | DIY method |
| Efficacy | Effective | Less effective than lasers |
| Cost | Cost effective in long run | Costly in long run |
| Longevity | Permanent solution | Temporary solution |
| Side Effects | No Side effect | Not suitable for all skin type |
Common Questions
Now that you have learnt about the hair removal creams, let’s look at a few frequently asked questions from people and their responses from experts.
What’s A Depilatory Cream?
The term ‘depilatory’ comes from ‘depilation’, which means deliberate removal of body hair. A depilatory cream is a hair removal solution available in the form of cream, lotion, powder, gel, roll-on or spray that contain chemical formulations for hair removal.
How Does Depilatory Cream Compare To Razor Shaving?
Although both of these hair removal techniques are a temporary way of getting rid of the body hair, they do have dissimilarities.
- Hair removal through creams offers a longer result as compared to shaving.
- Hair removal through creams does not involve any risk of cuts.
- Hair removal creams need to be applied and to be left for some time to achieve the result. It is not the case with shaving gels.
- The chemicals present in hair removal creams are harder and harmful than that of the shaving gel.
How Does Depilatory Cream Compare To Waxing?
There are various dissimilarities in these two methods as well. These include –
- Hair removal through waxing offers a longer result as compared to depilatory creams.
- Waxing is safer as compared to depilatory creams.
- Waxing involves a little more pain and patience as compared to depilatory creams.
How Long Before My Hair Starts To Grow Back?
The longevity of different methods is different.
- Laser Hair Removal: Permanent Solution
- Waxing: 15 days
- Depilatory creams: 7-8 days
- Shaving: 2-3 days
How Do I Use Depilatory Creams?
Always follow the instruction manual. Do not forget to do a patch test. Store the cream in a right manner after the use.
Does It Work On All Types Of Hair?
Not all creams work on all hair types. There are different creams for different purposes. These include hair removal creams for men, hair removal creams for women, hair removal creams for face, Brazilian hair removal creams, etc.
There are a plethora of hair removal creams available in the market today. There is no doubt that these creams are one of the easiest solutions to get rid of the unwanted body hair. However, there are many cons that come along with it. Therefore, as experts suggest, one should not rely on it for a regular hair removal solution and should only use it in emergency cases. Other methods, such as laser hair removal treatment, are safer and better than using depilatory creams.