Laser hair removal procedure: 12 facts you need to know to make an informed decision about it
12 facts about laser hair removal, the most effective and popular way to get rid of unwanted body hair. But, like any other procedure, it has its advantages and disadvantages, its pros and cons, which you need to know before deciding to carry it out, as well as understand what is the difference between laser hair removal and photoepilation.
Read more about the laser hair removal procedure. 12 facts:
Fact #1: Laser hair removal is not suitable for everyone
Laser hair removal is a method that is not suitable for everyone. One of the main reasons is the principle of operation of laser equipment, based on the absorption of laser light by the melanin of the hair. Because of this, Laser Hair Removal is the most effective method of getting rid of unwanted hairs on light skin and dark hair for several reasons. First, the laser directs energy at melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. When there is a large amount of melanin in the hair, the laser effectively destroys the hair follicles, resulting in permanent hair removal.
However, if you have dark skin or light colored hair, laser hair removal may not give you the desired results. Dark skin contains high amounts of melanin, which can cause burns or skin pigmentation when using laser hair removal. Also, light-colored hair contains low amounts of melanin, making it less sensitive to laser hair removal.
If you have dark skin or light colored hair, the laser hair removal procedure may require more sessions to achieve the desired results. This can increase the overall cost of the procedure and the time it takes to complete. In addition, the procedure may be more painful and cause more discomfort than when used on light skin and dark hair.
Fact #2: You must properly prepare for the procedure
Proper skin preparation before undergoing laser hair removal is one of the keys to achieving the best results and reducing possible side effects. Here are some tips on how to prepare the skin before the procedure:
- Avoid tanning: Tanning can increase the risk of burns and skin pigmentation during the laser hair removal procedure. Therefore, you should avoid tanning for several weeks prior to the procedure. If you do intend to go out in the sun, use a sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Do not have cosmetic procedures: Peeling, waxing or tweezing can also increase the risk of skin burns and pigmentation. Do not perform these procedures for several weeks before laser hair removal.
- Do not take medications that may affect the skin: Some medications can increase the skin’s sensitivity to laser light, which can lead to side effects. These include some antibiotics such as tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, as well as some acne and herpes medications. These medications can increase photosensitivity of the skin, which can lead to the development of pigmentation or allergic manifestations. Therefore, if you are taking any medications, be sure to inform your cosmetologist and temporarily discontinue them if necessary.
- Thoroughly cleanse the skin. The face and body should be thoroughly cleaned before the procedure to remove makeup, creams and other products that can make it difficult to remove hair. It is best to use gentle cleansers.
- Avoid the use of cosmetic products: After cleaning, the skin should be left free of cosmetic products such as creams and lotions. These products can complicate the hair removal process and increase the risk of side effects.
- Remove all hair in the area you intend to treat with the laser. This is done with a hair trimmer or razor. If the hair is not removed, the laser may react to it. This can cause various side effects such as irritation, redness of the skin and even the formation of burns. In addition, the laser hair treatment may produce a burnt hair odor, which can be unpleasant for the patient and the beautician. This will not only reduce the possible risks and side effects, but will also help the laser to work more effectively.
In addition, it is important to take into account individual skin characteristics and general health in preparation for the procedure. For example, people who suffer from herpes may get an exacerbation after the session, so they need to take preventive measures before the laser hair removal procedure. Read 12 facts about it below
Fact #3: The procedure is not entirely painless
Laser hair removal is a procedure that is generally not very painful. However, some people may experience slight burning or discomfort during the procedure. In such cases, the cosmetic surgeon may use a cooling gel to help reduce skin sensitivity and reduce possible side effects. For example, cooling gels such as frozen aloe vera gel or menthol spray can help reduce skin sensitivity and anesthetize the area during the procedure.
for anesthesia before laser hair removal procedure use various methods such as:
- Application of cooling gels
- Applying anesthetic creams to the skin before the procedure.
- Using ice compresses to cool the skin.
- Massage or vibration to reduce pain.
- Local anesthetic injections such as lidocaine.
- Use of lasers with integrated cooling systems that cool the skin during the procedure.
However, not all clinics and salons offer anesthetic agents, and the choice of anesthesia method can depend on many factors, such as the patient’s skin type and health, individual preferences, and the technology used in the clinic.
It is important to note that skin sensitivity can vary depending on your skin type and the area of your body where the procedure is performed. For example, skin on the face may be more sensitive than skin on the legs.
In general, laser hair removal should not cause serious pain, and there are many ways to anesthetize and reduce possible side effects. If the patient wishes, it is always possible to find a suitable method of anesthesia that will provide maximum comfort during the procedure.
Fact #4: Multiple sessions are necessary.
In order to understand why multiple sessions are necessary to maximize the effect of laser hair removal, it is important to know about the peculiarities of hair growth.
Each hair is in one of three phases of hair growth.
3 Phases of hair growth:
- anagen
- catagen
- telogen
Anagen phase is the first and most important phase of hair growth. In this phase, the hair follicle produces new hair that grows from the root part of the follicle. During the anagen phase, the hair follicle is actively nourished by blood and receives the necessary nutrients for hair growth. The duration of the anagen phase can vary greatly depending on where the hair grows on the body.
On the scalp, the duration of the anagen phase ranges from 2 to 7 years, depending on genetic factors and other external factors. For example, people with a short anagen phase may have slower hair growth and less dense hair than people with a longer anagen phase.
In other parts of the body, such as the arms, legs and bikini area, the anagen phase usually lasts from a few months to a few years. During the anagen phase, hair grows rapidly and reaches its maximum length.
Understanding the hair growth phase, including the anagen phase, is an important factor when performing laser hair removal procedures. Laser hair removal is most effective on hair in the anagen phase, when the hair follicle is in an active state of growth. Therefore, frequent laser hair removal treatments are recommended to catch hair in the anagen phase of growth and achieve the best results.
The Catagen phase is the transitional phase between the active anagen phase and the resting telogen phase. In this phase, hair growth slows down and the hair stops receiving nourishment from the hair follicle.
The catagen phase usually lasts about 2-3 weeks and is the period when the hair follicle begins to prepare to stop hair growth. During this phase, the hair does not grow and the follicle begins to shrink and detach from the skin in preparation for separation from the hair.
During the catagen phase, hair may begin to fall out, but this is not pathological as the process of hair loss is natural and normal to a healthy hair growth cycle.
During the catagen phase, hair is in transition and laser hair removal may be less effective.
The Telogenic phase is the last phase of hair growth that precedes the next anagen phase. During the telogen phase, the hair does not grow or receive nourishment from the hair follicle. During this phase, the hair is dormant and preparing for its natural shedding from the hair follicle.
Длительность телогенной фазы может варьироваться от нескольких недель до нескольких месяцев, и зависит от многих факторов, включая генетические особенности, возраст, питание и здоровье волос. Обычно длительность этой фазы составляет около 3-4 месяцев.
During the telogen phase, hair loss is a natural process and may occur gradually, a few hairs a day. However, if hair loss is severe or persists for a long period of time, it may be a sign of a medical condition or a disruption in the hair growth cycle.
Understanding the telogen phase is important for laser hair removal procedures. During the telogen phase, the laser may be less effective because the hair is no longer receiving nourishment from the hair follicle and is dormant.
Laser hair removal is only effective on hair in the active anagen growth phase, so several sessions are required at regular intervals. All body hair is in different growth phases, so not all hair will be removed after the first session. After the first session, only hair that is in the active anagen phase will be removed. To remove all body hair, several sessions over a period of several months are required.
Fact #5: Post-procedure care is necessary
After the laser hair removal procedure, it is necessary to take proper care of your skin to achieve the best results and avoid possible complications. It is important to follow your cosmetologist’s instructions and follow the skin care recommendations.
Table of creams and lotions that can be used to moisturize and soothe the skin after a laser hair removal procedure:
| Product Name | Description. | Manufacturer |
| La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 | Restorative balm with panthenol and honey | La Roche-Posay |
| Avene Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream | Regenerating cream with honey and medical honey | Avene |
| Bioderma Cicabio Crème | Soothing cream with zinc and hyaluronic acid | Bioderma |
| Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm | Restorative balm with panthenol and glycerin | Eucerin |
| Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion | Moisturizing lotion for sensitive skin | Cetaphil |
| Vichy Mineral 89 Fortifying & Hydrating Daily Skin Booster | Moisturizing gel based on mineral water and hyaluronic acid | Vichy |
| Avène Thermal Spring Water | Thermal water to soothe and moisturize the skin | Avene |
It is important to note that this is not a complete list of products, and availability may vary in different regions of Ukraine. It is best to use products recommended by your cosmetologist or dermatologist.
Please note that the result of laser hair removal may not be final immediately after the procedure, as the hair may fall out for several weeks. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommendations of the cosmetologist and conduct all the necessary sessions to achieve the maximum effect.
Fact #6: What you can’t do after the procedure
It is not recommended to go to the gym, sauna or take hot showers for the first 24 hours after laser hair removal. It is important to remember that the skin remains sensitive for 24 hours due to the heat left in the skin after the procedure. This restriction is due to the risk of creating a warm and moist environment that can promote bacterial growth, which can lead to blemishes and irritation on the skin. It is also important to avoid friction of the skin and avoid mechanical damage to the area treated to avoid additional irritation and trauma to the skin.- It is not recommended to go to the gym, sauna or take hot showers for the first 24 hours after laser hair removal. It is important to remember that the skin remains sensitive for 24 hours due to the heat left in the skin after the procedure. This restriction is due to the risk of creating a warm and moist environment that can promote bacterial growth, which can lead to blemishes and irritation on the skin. It is also important to avoid friction of the skin and avoid mechanical damage to the area treated to avoid additional irritation and trauma to the skin.
Refrain from sunbathing and sun exposure to avoid possible burns or skin pigmentation. If you have a tan, you will need to wait until it comes off before starting the procedure. Your dermatologist may also check with you about upcoming vacations to make sure you don’t have any vacations that could affect the timing of your next appointment. This is because after laser hair removal, the skin becomes sensitive to sunlight and it is undesirable to burden it with additional exposure. It is important to follow your dermatologist’s recommendations and avoid sun exposure for best treatment results and to reduce the risk of possible side effects.- Refrain from sunbathing and sun exposure to avoid possible burns or skin pigmentation. If you have a tan, you will need to wait until it comes off before starting the procedure. Your dermatologist may also check with you about upcoming vacations to make sure you don’t have any vacations that could affect the timing of your next appointment. This is because after laser hair removal, the skin becomes sensitive to sunlight and it is undesirable to burden it with additional exposure. It is important to follow your dermatologist’s recommendations and avoid sun exposure for best treatment results and to reduce the risk of possible side effects.
After laser hair removal, plucking, waxing, waxing, bleaching, or using wax to remove hair is not recommended. These methods can interfere with the hair growth process and worsen the results of the procedure. If you want to maintain smooth, hair-free skin throughout the process, it is better to use shaving.- After laser hair removal, plucking, waxing, waxing, bleaching, or using wax to remove hair is not recommended. These methods can interfere with the hair growth process and worsen the results of the procedure. If you want to maintain smooth, hair-free skin throughout the process, it is better to use shaving.
– Cosmetics containing harsh ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and retinoids should be avoided for several days after the procedure.
A combined table of creams and lotions containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that you should HAVE to avoid after a laser hair removal procedure:
| Product Name | AHA Content. | Manufacturer |
| Biologique Recherche P50 Lotion | Lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid | Biologique Recherche |
| The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution | Glycolic acid, malic acid, citric acid | The Ordinary |
| AmLactin Alpha-Hydroxy Therapy Moisturizing Body Lotion | Lactic acid | AmLactin |
| Neostrata Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Cream | Glycolic acid | Neostrata |
| Exuviance Performance Peel AP25 | Glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid | Exuviance |
| Face cream with glycolic acid | Glycolic acid | Biologique Recherche |
| Lactic Acid Body Lotion | Lactic acid | AmLactin |
| Face cream with malic acid | Malic acid | The Ordinary |
| Glycolic peel | Glycolic acid | Neostrata |
| Face mask with lactobionic acid | Lactobionic acid | Exuviance |
It is important to note that this is not a complete list of products that contain AHAs, and availability may vary in different regions of Ukraine. It is better to consult a cosmetologist or dermatologist before using any cosmetic products after laser hair removal procedure. 12 facts about it we will continue to describe further
Fact #6: What side effects can occur
Laser hair removal can have various side effects such as skin redness, swelling, burning, itching, irritation, pigmentation, and more. Some of them may occur immediately after the procedure, while others may appear after a few days.
However, most side effects are temporary and disappear a few days after the procedure. In order to reduce the risk of side effects and speed up their disappearance, a number of recommendations should be followed.
Before the procedure it is necessary to discuss with the cosmetologist all available side effects and find out what actions can be taken to avoid them. Before the procedure, avoid sunbathing, bathing, saunas and other factors that may irritate the skin.
If side effects do not disappear within a few days or worsen, you should contact a cosmetologist or doctor for guidance and counseling.
Fact #7: Laser hair removal is not cheap
Laser hair removal is an expensive procedure, especially if multiple sessions are required. However, in the long run, laser hair removal may prove to be more cost-effective than other hair removal methods.
Laser hair removal is one of the most expensive methods of hair removal, especially if multiple sessions are required to achieve the desired results. The cost of the procedure can vary depending on many factors such as the size of the area to be treated, the number of sessions required to achieve the result, and the region where the procedure is performed.
However, keep in mind that laser hair removal may be more cost-effective in the long run, as other hair removal methods may require more frequent treatments and more frequent costs. In addition, laser hair removal can help save time and reduce the cost of other hair removal methods such as shaving or waxing, shugaring.
Fact #8: Results can last a long time
Laser hair removal can provide long-lasting results, but this depends on many factors such as skin type, hair color, and the area of the body where the procedure is performed.
Laser hair removal can provide long-lasting results that can last for several years. However, it may take several sessions and proper skin care after the procedure to maximize the effect.
It’s important to remember that the length of time your results last can depend on many factors, including your skin type, hair color, and the area of your body where the procedure is performed. Some people may experience hair growth a few years after the procedure, while others may experience results that last much longer.
In order to prolong the results of laser hair removal, it is important to follow your cosmetic surgeon’s recommendations and properly care for your skin after the procedure. If results begin to deteriorate or if hair begins to re-grow, you may need to have your hair removed again in a few years.
Fact #9: Different types of lasers are used for different hair types and colors
For example, diode laser is suitable for hair removal of downy hair, and alexandrite laser is suitable for light and red hair. Neodymium laser is suitable for removing dark and stiff hair. This is because different types of lasers have different wavelengths and energy levels that are better suited for different hair and skin types.
Best results on fair skin for dark hair.
Laser hair removal gives the best results on fair skin and dark hair, as the hair’s melanin absorbs laser light better. If you have darker skin or lighter hair, more sessions may be required to achieve the desired results.
Fact #10: Effectiveness depends on the skill of the cosmetologist and equipment
The effectiveness of laser hair removal depends on the qualifications of the cosmetologist, as well as the type and power of the laser equipment used. Therefore, it is important to choose professionals with a good reputation.
Fact #11: Some areas of the body are more sensitive to pain
Some areas of the body, such as the underarms and bikini, are more sensitive to pain during laser hair removal. In such cases, it may be necessary to use additional methods of pain relief, such as analgesics or cooling agents.
Fact #12: After a course of waxing, it may be necessary to repeat the treatment
This is because although most people notice a significant reduction in hair growth after completing a full course of treatment, changes in hormones can trigger hair re-growth. A cosmetic surgeon may recommend additional treatments at intervals, such as quarterly or biannually, to maintain a permanent hair removal effect.
Conclusion:Conclusion:
Now you know that an effective and safe way to get rid of unwanted body hair is laser hair removal. You have read 12 facts about laser hair removal in our article. However, before you decide to undergo the procedure, you need to consider all of its advantages and disadvantages. If you decide to have laser hair removal, be sure to contact a professional to get the best results and minimize possible side effects. Remember that the number of sessions and results depend on your skin type and hair color, so it is necessary to choose an experienced cosmetologist and follow all his recommendations for skin care before and after the procedure.
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