Laser hair removal is a procedure that involves exposing the body to pulses of light to destroy the hair follicle. It has been used as an experimental treatment for over 20 years, and became commercially available in 1995. This procedure has a few side effects, and you should take certain precautions before you have it done.
Side effects of laser hair removal
Laser hair removal is a fast-acting procedure that is effective in removing unwanted hair. However, the procedure can have a few side effects, depending on the body part treated. Since lasers target hair follicles, you might experience temporary redness or swelling after treatment. The pigmentation of your skin can also be affected. In such cases, you should seek medical advice.
Laser hair removal can cause scars. These scars will not be permanent, but they may cause pain or discomfort for the patient. Generally, they will subside in a couple of hours. A topical anesthetic can help to minimize the skin’s reaction. After the procedure, you can take ice packs or cool baths to help relieve any discomfort. However, it is important to take care of the treated area afterward, as a crust may form on the skin after a laser treatment.
Cost of laser hair removal
Laser hair removal prices vary by area, so it’s important to shop around for the best price. You’ll also want to consider where you live, because the demand for laser hair removal is typically greater in coastal areas. In addition, you’ll want to ask about patient payment plans. Pay attention to interest rates, and take the time to compare different payment options.
The cost of laser hair removal will vary based on the number of sessions required. Typically, patients with light skin will require more sessions than those with dark skin. As a result, the total cost will be higher. Another factor in laser hair removal cost is the color of the hair. Darker hair can attract the heat of the laser, leading to skin damage or burns.
Efficacy of laser hair removal
The efficacy of laser hair removal is based on the technique used. If it is not done properly, it may lead to skip areas, a poor therapeutic response, or even islands of untreated hair. The treatment should be performed with a pulse duration and fluence suitable for the desired treatment area. High fluence can cause damage to surrounding tissue and increase the risk of scarring. The pulse duration should be comparable to the thermal relaxation time of the hair shaft, which ranges from 10 to 50 milliseconds. Most laser hair removal systems use millisecond pulse widths.
After a laser hair removal session, the treated area will be red and swollen for several days. A mild form of hydrocortisone or aloe vera can help reduce the redness and irritation. Hair growth will continue to slow over the next two weeks. The procedure may also leave a patchy appearance, though this is normal. After treatment, you should avoid the sun or excessive heat for a week or two.
Precautions to take before laser hair removal
One of the most important steps to ensuring the success of laser hair removal is to follow the pre and post-treatment instructions. You should avoid direct sun exposure for 24 hours before the treatment and avoid any activity that causes redness or swelling. After the procedure, you should apply an SPF 30 or greater sunblock to the treated area. The affected area is expected to heal gradually over a period of two weeks. In addition, you should avoid sun and excessive heat for at least six weeks. Additionally, you should apply a broad-spectrum sunblock daily.
You should also be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications. Some medications can make the skin more sensitive to laser hair removal. Tell your doctor if you are taking antibiotics or using topical products containing Retin-A.