Is It Worth Getting Laser Hair Removal

Is It Worth Getting Laser Hair Removal

Unwanted hair can be eliminated with the help of laser hair removal. It employs laser light to disable hair-regrowth mechanisms. It is effective for usage on people of various skin tones, including those with dark or tanned complexions.

It’s a query we’ve all posed to ourselves at some point. Is laser hair removal a good investment? It’s a painful process… Is the result really worth all the trouble? The answer is typically yes, although there are many exceptions.

When it comes to getting rid of unwanted hair, laser hair removal is the gold standard. When it comes to laser skin surgery, no one does it better than the experts at the Center for Dermatology and Laser Surgery. Is laser hair removal a worthwhile procedure, though? The outcome of a consultation and the condition of your skin/hair will determine the response to this question. Read on to learn more on is laser hair removal permanent/laser hair removal on face.

Is It Worth Getting Laser Hair Removal

Warm weather means sunshine, swimsuits, shorts — and so much shaving! If you dread warm weather because of the additional skin exposure, laser hair removal is a good option to consider; it can greatly reduce your grooming demands.

Dermatologist Rachel Ward, MD, answers 10 questions that cover just about everything you need to know about laser hair removal.

1. How does it work?

Laser hair removal devices uses a light source that specifically targets the pigment in the hair itself. The quick pulse of light and energy essentially heats and melts the hair and subsequently damages the hair follicle. This prevents future hairs from growing in the follicle.

2. How many treatments will I need?

The process only works during the hair’s growth cycle, so the procedure is often done multiple times. You may have great results after three treatments, or it sometimes takes as many as nine.

Treatment needs can vary because the laser targets melanin, or dark pigment, in the hair follicles. The darker your skin is, the harder it is to distinguish between the skin color and the pigment in the follicles. You can still get good results, but it may take more treatments. If you have light skin and dark hair, you will likely get good results after just a few treatments.

3. Does it work for everyone?

It works with all kinds of hair, except for gray hair.

4. Is radiation involved?

No. The word “laser” stands for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, but it’s not like an X-ray. The treatment simply uses light and heat.

5. How should I prepare for the procedure?

It’s a good idea to stay out of the sun as much as possible before the procedure.

Ultraviolet light stimulates melanocytes, which create more melanin (pigment) in the skin. The greater the contrast between skin color and hair color, the more effective the treatment. 

You should also avoid shaving for three or four days before the treatment. If the hair has grown out some, it makes it easier for the technician to see it. Definitely avoid waxing or depilatories as they pull the hair out of the follicle, leaving no target for the laser.

6. How long does it take?

This depends on the area being treated. Smaller areas like the chin or underarms may only take about 20 minutes; a leg or full back can take as long as an hour and a half.

7. Does it hurt?

The treatment is a little uncomfortable at worst because there are nerves attached to the hair follicles.

8. Are there areas where it doesn’t work?

Laser hair removal works just about anywhere, including the legs, arms, back, underarms and bikini line. The only places that are off limits are ones that can’t be seen such as inside the nostrils and around the orbit of the eyes.

9. What can I expect after treatment?

The treatment is effective for most people and is very safe.

The only problems you might experience afterward are a little swelling, redness or irritation around the hair follicles. This can last for a couple of days.

Hyperpigmentation (skin darkening) also sometimes occurs, but that typically fades pretty quickly. Burns or blisters may arise, but they are very uncommon.

10. Will the hair grow back?

“You may need a touch-up here and there — especially if you have a lot of body hair — but the overall effects of the procedure are lasting,” she says.

However, hormones sometimes complicate things. If you have an endocrine issue that increases your testosterone (such as polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that causes a hormone imbalance), you may have to return for more touch ups. Hair also sometimes grows back after pregnancy or menopause.

Laser Hair Removal On Face

Laser hair removal on the face is a noninvasive medical procedure that uses a beam of light (a laser) to remove hair from the face. It can be done on other parts of the body too, like the armpits, legs, or bikini area, but on the face it’s used primarily around the mouth, chin, or cheeks

• aser hair removal requires no downtime, and the procedure itself is quick and takes less than 30 minutes for the face.
• It should only be performed by a medical professional or a highly trained aesthetician.

Cost

• Laser hair removal typically costs $200–$400 per session, and you will need 4 to 6 sessions, plus a yearly maintenance appointment.

Effectiveness

• If done correctly, laser hair removal on the face will permanently get rid of hair.
• A 2003 studyTrusted Source on patient satisfaction showed the majority of patients (71 percent) are satisfied by the treatment.

What is laser hair removal on the face?

Laser hair removal on the face is a noninvasive medical procedure that uses a beam of light (a laser) to remove hair from the face.

It can be done on other parts of the body too, like the armpits, legs, or bikini area, but on the face it’s used primarily around the mouth, chin, or cheeks.

There was a time when laser hair removal worked best on people with dark hair and light skin, but now, thanks to advancements in laser technology, it’s a suitable procedure for anyone who has unwanted hair they’d like to remove.

It’s a very common procedure. Data from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery showed that in 2016, laser hair removal was one of the top 5 nonsurgical procedures in the United States.

How much does laser hair removal on the face cost?

One session of laser hair removal will typically cost anywhere between $200 and $400, and you’ll likely need at least 4 to 6 sessions, spaced about a month apart.

Because laser hair removal is an elective cosmetic procedure, it will not be covered by insurance, but you should be able to return to work immediately.

How does laser hair removal on the face work?

Laser hair removal works by sending a light into the hair follicle via laser, which is absorbed by the pigment, or melanin, in the hair — this is why it originally worked best on people with darker hair.

When the light is absorbed by the pigment, it’s converted to heat, which is what actually damages the follicle.

After the laser damages the hair follicle, the hair vaporizes, and a full round of treatments later the hair will stop growing back.

Laser hair removal may help prevent ingrown hairs and will save time typically spent waxing or shaving.

Procedure for laser hair removal on the face

Before the laser hair removal procedure begins, your face will be thoroughly cleaned and a numbing gel may be applied to the treatment area. You’ll be given goggles to wear, and your hair will likely be covered.

The practitioner will aim the laser at the specified area. Most patients say the sensation feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin, or a sunburn. You may smell the scent of burnt hair.

Because the face area is smaller than other parts of the body, like the chest or legs, laser hair removal on the face will generally be pretty quick, sometimes done in as little as 15–20 minutes.

Targeted areas for treatment

You can get laser hair removal anywhere on the body, and it’s safe for most people. However, it’s advised the pregnant people don’t get laser treatments of any kind, including laser hair removal.

Laser hair removal can be done anywhere on the face including the:

• chin
• upper lip
• forehead
• temples
• cheeks

Are there any risks or side effects?

Severe side effects or complications related to laser hair removal on the face are rare. Side effects will typically resolve on their own and may include:

• redness
• swelling
• skin irritation

In rare cases, more serious side effects of laser hair removal include:

• infection
• permanent changes in skin tone or color
• blisters
• burns
• scarring

What to expect after laser hair removal on the face?

In the days following laser hair removal, you can expect to resume most of your normal activities, though you should refrain from exercise and direct sun exposure.

Expect to be a bit patient — it may take up to 2 to 3 weeks for you to see a noticeable difference in hair growth, and it may take several sessions to see full results.

Before and after pictures

It can be helpful to see before and after photos from real people who’ve had laser hair removal on their face when deciding if it’s right for you and your body.

Preparing for laser hair removal on the face

Your doctor should tell you in advance exactly how they’d like you to prepare for your laser hair removal treatment, but here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Avoid sun exposure in the days before treatment, as laser hair removal doesn’t work well on tanned skin.
• Avoid peels or other chemical treatments in the week leading up to your procedure, which may irritate skin.
• You may be told to shave or wax the area beforehand.
• If possible, arrive at your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin.
• Try to arrive with a low body temperature (i.e. don’t power walk to your appointment). If you’re warm to begin with, the laser may feel more uncomfortable.
• Avoid aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal remedies that may increase bleeding.
• Reschedule your appointment if you have a cold sore or other open cut on your face.

You may notice downy excess body hair growing during your pregnancy but don’t be alarmed, this is quite normal and will typically go away around six months post-partum. However, what about using laser hair removal treatments during your pregnancy?

Many women find out they’re pregnant after they’ve started a course of laser hair removal and are keen to know if it’s safe to continue. We discuss the important considerations below.

HAIR GROWTH DURING PREGNANCY

If you notice hair growing on your body in some unusual places, such as your stomach, you needn’t worry about it! In fact, it’s very common to find downy, light hair growing in some unexpected places during this exciting time of your life.

This condition is known as Hirutism and many women may experience it during their pregnancy because they have higher than normal levels of androgen in their bodies, which can trigger Hirutism.

You might even notice your body hair getting darker too because this can happen due to heightened levels of melanin. This is the pigment in our bodies that is responsible for our natural colouring.

The excess body hair is typically found around the stomach, nipples and the face among other unusual areas and it can also cause your hair and nails to grow too. But, don’t despair – the good news is that this extra hair won’t stay forever and will typically disappear around six months after your delivery. However, if it doesn’t go away or is getting thicker or darker past this point, it’s a good idea to follow up with your doctor.

However, if you are concerned about the appearance of this excess hair and would like to remove it then waxing, shaving, plucking or threading are usually safe hair removal options for pregnant women.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS WHEN GETTING LASER HAIR REMOVAL DURING PREGNANCY?

Most doctors and health care professionals usually don’t recommend the use of laser hair removal treatments during pregnancy, not because of concerns about the safety to the unborn baby, but because it poses a slight risk of permanent pigmentation damage to the skin. This is because, during pregnancy, the skin’s pigmentation can change due to the androgen hormones in your body.

However, due to the lack of scientific evidence, there is no clear guidance as to whether laser hair removal beauty treatments are safe to have during pregnancy. This lack of scientific and medical research into the safety of laser hair removal during pregnancy means that we can’t say for certain how this treatment could impact on the health and development of a foetus.

CAN YOU CONTINUE LASER HAIR REMOVAL WHEN PREGNANT?

Some women become concerned about their excessive hair growth during their pregnancy and seek to use laser hair removal to remove it. Others have already started a course of laser hair removal before they realise, they’re pregnant and wonder if it’s safe to continue the treatment.

It will depend on the individual beauty spa’s insurance and internal policies for offering laser hair removal treatments, as to whether they decide to continue with a course of treatment when their patient is pregnant. In some cases, they may decide to postpone or delay the course of laser hair removal until the baby is born, just to be on the safe side.

At Primas Medispa London, we are more than happy to discuss your specific requirements should you find that you fall pregnant during a course of laser hair removal treatment at our spa. Contact our friendly team today to find out more about booking one of our laser hair removal packages.

Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent

You’ll need regular sessions to keep hair from regrowing. How often sessions are needed varies for each person. For example, you may need a session to remove facial hair every 4 weeks, and for body hair every 6 to 8 weeks. There’s no guarantee laser hair removal will get rid of all the hair.

What to think about before you have laser hair removal

Laser hair removal may have side effects, it has limitations, and it can be expensive.

Safety

Laser hair removal is safe, but it can occasionally cause side effects, such as pain and discomfort, and red skin that may last for some time.

It may also not be suitable for everyone, including pregnant women and people with certain skin types.

There’s no evidence to suggest that laser hair removal causes skin cancer.

It’s important to make sure the person doing your laser hair removal is experienced and suitably qualified.

Check they’re on a register to show they meet set standards in training, skill and insurance.

Avoid practitioners who have only completed a short training course.

It’s not permanent

You’ll need regular sessions to keep hair from regrowing.

How often sessions are needed varies for each person. For example, you may need a session to remove facial hair every 4 weeks, and for body hair every 6 to 8 weeks.

There’s no guarantee laser hair removal will get rid of all the hair.

It does not work well on dark skin

Laser hair removal works better on people with pale skin and dark hair.

It’s not as effective on tanned skin or hair that’s been bleached by the sun. If you’ve got a tan you’ll need to let it fade before having treatment.

Cost

The cost of laser hair removal depends on the area of the body being treated and the number of treatments needed.

For example, for single treatments it may cost around:

• £85 for the upper lip
• £110 for under the arms
• £130 for the bikini line
• £270 for the arms

What laser hair removal involves

You’ll need to shave the area of skin the day before your appointment.

On the day, you’ll wear specially designed goggles to protect your eyes.

The practitioner usually applies a cool gel or cooling air spray to the area of skin.

They then press a handheld device to your skin and trigger the laser. This may feel like an elastic band snapping at your skin.

Each session may take between 15 minutes to over an hour.

The number of sessions needed depends on the area to be lasered and the system used.

Afterwards

The affected area may be red with a raised rash for a few hours to a few days.

Regularly holding an ice pack to the skin may help (try a pack of frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel).

Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun after laser hair removal. It’s best to avoid exposing the treated area of skin to sunlight until after the treatment course has finished.

Regardless of the weather, use sunscreen (minimum SPF30) for at least 4 weeks on exposed areas that have been treated.

Rarely, laser hair removal can result in:

• pain, discomfort or tenderness
• red skin that may last for some time
• crusting, blistering, bruising or swelling of your skin
• lightening or darkening of your skin
• scarring
• burns from the laser’s heat
• bacterial infections

What to do if you have problems

If you’ve had laser hair removal and you’re not happy with the results or you have side effects that are troubling you, talk to your practitioner at the clinic where you were treated.

Laser for hair removal and skin treatments have been approved by the FDA since the late 1990’s. Since this time no studies have proven that laser hair or skin procedures are unsafe for pregnant or non pregnant women.

There have been studies on pregnant rats that have shown negative effects, but incidental human exposure to laser procedures during pregnancy has not proven harmful. However, because there are no long-term studies and due to the delicate nature of pregnancy it has been recommended by most professionals that laser hair removal be postponed until after the birth of the baby. As a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) I would have to agree with this recommendation. It is best to err on the side of caution when it comes to the health and welfare of mom and baby!

Should I Do Laser Hair Removal When Pregnant?

Some may think that the suspension of the hair removal process would cause a lessened effect on hair removal but this is not necessarily so. The hair follicles that have been killed as a result of laser treatment will never grow hair again. Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and breastfeeding do tend to increase hair growth but waiting until after the birth of the baby to begin or continue treatments will not effect the results. Laser hair removal during breast feeding is fine as long as it is not done on the areola or breast tissue.