17 Feb Laser Hair Removal 101
Laser hair removal is one of the most popular procedures at RefinedMD. Removing unwanted hair on the face or body can be very expensive over a lifetime, and many people waste countless hours on routine hair removal. How much extra time and money would you have if you no longer had to shave, wax, thread, or sugar your hair away? Most people are a candidate for laser hair removal, and we have the technology and skills to treat nearly any skin type—regardless of melanin level.
However, it is important to keep in mind that the best candidates usually have darker hair. The fairer your skin, the more effective laser hair removal can be. In some cases, laser hair removal is more like permanent laser hair lightening. Having sparser, less coarse hair can also be a fantastic means of increasing confidence while saving time and money on hair removal maintenance.
HOW LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORKS
Laser hair removal’s effectiveness is due to lasers being attracted to melanin, including melanin in the hair shaft. That is why hair that is brown or black can be effectively treated. Hair that is white, blonde, or red cannot be treated with lasers. However, this hair, including the peach fuzz on the face, is rarely the type of hair that a person routinely removes.
Hormones play the primary role in hair growth, which is why body hair begins to grow in the teenaged years. Although laser hair removal is safe for those going through big hormonal shifts, such as teens and pregnant women, it is a good idea to wait until the hormones have settled before scheduling laser hair removal.
OPTIMIZING HAIR REMOVAL
Hair that is treatable with laser hair removal becomes lighter and the active growth phase is paused. However, lighter hair simply cannot be heated enough by any laser to effectively destroy the hair follicle. The number of appointments needed will vary person to person, but most hair removal clients are happy with results within six to eight treatments.
Since hormones are a big factor in hair growth, laser hair removal may not be permanent. Maintenance sessions may be required in the future.
TREATMENT AREAS
Nearly any part of the body can be comfortably treated with laser hair removal thanks to patented cooling technology featured in many available lasers. Even very sensitive areas like the groin, lips, ear, and nose can be treated with a wide range of lasers. In fact, these sensitive areas are often the most popular treatment sites.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
Most patients are satisfied after six to eight treatments, as this number of sessions allows the technology to address the entire hair growth cycle. Only follicles that are actively in their growth stage can be treated during a session. The next batch of hair going into an active cycle occurs four to eight weeks later. This is why it is important to stick with regular hair removal cycles.
Some lasers, such as YAG laser, require up to 12 treatments to achieve the best outcome. However, every person has unique hair growth characteristics. Hair growth cycles aren’t always exact, and they can vary person to person.
IS LASER HAIR REMOVAL SAFE?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began to approve several laser hair removal technologies many years ago. RefinedMD only offers laser hair removal treatments that have proven to be safe and effective. The potential side effects of the treatment are minimal, and usually include temporary redness or sensitivity at the treatment site.
Discomfort related to laser hair removal will vary based on a person’s tolerance as well as the laser and site being treated. Most clients compare laser hair removal to the snap of a rubber band. Taking an over-the-counter pain management medication prior to treatment can help. The cooling systems in many laser hair removal technologies can also dramatically increase comfort.
SCHEDULE YOUR LASER HAIR REMOVAL APPOINTMENT
RefinedMD is home to one of the largest collections of laser skin technologies in the region. For the best results, you need both the right skills and technology to reach your goals. Schedule your consultation or appointment today when you call RefinedMD during business hours or complete the online form.