- Home
- /
- Speciality
- /
- Laser Hair Removal Choose Smooth, Hair-Free Skin
Regular grooming and looking your best is a good habit. Most women prefer skin that is smooth and hair-free. For this they go to great lengths and endure a lot of pain since ages. Shaving, waxing, or plucking can not only be tedious, painful and time-consuming, but they often lead to skin irritation, darkening and a host of problems due to chemical exposure. And despite all the effort the hair comes back within days!
Laser hair removal has emerged as a popular, long-term solution for reducing and removing unwanted hair across various parts of the body. But there are concerns and queries one has before considering laser hair removal. So before opting for the laser hair removal procedure, it helps to know how it works, and its associated benefits and risks. At the CK Birla Hospital, your trusted healthcare partner, we ensure you get all the guidance for all your healthcare decisions, in order to make an informed decision every step of the way.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a non-surgical medical procedure. A concentrated light (laser) is used to target and destroy hair follicles. The laser is targeted on the pigment of the hair follicle, heating and damaging it to restrict any future growth. This non-invasive treatment offers lasting results compared to other hair removal techniques. This whole procedure is done using a sophisticated device called the epilation laser.What is an Epilation Laser?
An epilation laser is a type of laser specifically designed for hair removal. They offer a long-term hair reduction by targeting the hair follicle directly. This type of laser works on the principle of selective photothermolysis. It works in a 3 step procedure: Step 1: The hair will be exposed to the laser energyStep 2: The energy is absorbed as heat which destroys the follicle
Step 3: The burnt follicle inhibits the regrowth process. Using this simple approach, your aesthetician or dermatologist will be able to remove your body hair effectively.
Who Can Have Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is suitable for most people but works best for individuals with light skin and dark hair. Since the laser targets the pigment in the hair, contrast between the hair and skin tones helps the laser focus on the follicle only without affecting the surrounding skin. However, advancements in laser technology provide different laser settings for those with darker or lighter tones. This may require more sessions to achieve the same results. It’s important to discuss this with your dermatologist or laser specialist to determine if you’re a good candidate for the treatment.Laser Hair Removal is effective for which areas?
- Underarms: Ideal for individuals tired of frequent shaving or waxing.
- Chin and Facial Hair: Women dealing with hirsutism, i.e., unwanted hair in chin, upper lip, and sideburns, prefer laser treatments.
- Bikini Line: Hair removal is especially painful in the nether regions. Hence Laser hair removal is popular for removing or reducing hair in the bikini area.
- Full Body: For those seeking a more comprehensive solution, full-body laser hair removal is available to target multiple areas at the same sitting.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
An epilation laser shows the best results on darker hair, as the contrast between the hair and skin allows the laser to effectively target the pigment. However, newer laser technologies now are equally effective and are fit for use on a wider range of skin tones and hair colours. A typical laser hair removal session can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the area being treated. The procedure is most effective during the active growth phase. However, depending on the patient's conditions it needs to be carefully planned during the growth phase for maximum results.What are the Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?
- Long-Lasting Results: Laser hair removal provides long-term outcomes. With consistent treatment, many people experience permanent hair reduction.
- Precision: The laser targets only the hair follicles, leaving the surrounding skin undamaged. This makes it ideal for sensitive areas like the face, underarms, and bikini line.
- Time-Saving: Compared to shaving or waxing, laser treatments offer a more long term time-efficient solution.
- Minimal Discomfort: Modern laser technology has improved to make the procedure more comfortable, with cooling mechanisms to minimise discomfort.
- Fewer Ingrown Hairs: Ingrowth is a major problem people face after shaving or waxing. By damaging the hair follicle, laser hair removal significantly reduces the occurrence.
Recovery, Risks and Precautions for Laser Hair Removal
After a laser hair removal session, patients may experience mild redness or swelling in the treated area. To ensure a smooth recovery and avoid complications, your dermatologist will suggest the following precautions:- Avoid Sun Exposure: Laser treated skin is sensitive to UV rays. Protect the treated area from direct sun exposure for at least two weeks after the procedure, as the skin will gradually adapt to the changes.
- No Waxing or Plucking: In between sessions, avoid any other hair removal methods that may cause trauma to the roots by pulling. Shaving may be permitted.
- Moisturise and Hydrate: A gentle moisturiser, approved by your dermatologist, will help soothe the skin after treatment. Additionally keep drinking ample water post procedure to keep the skin hydrated and avoid any unwanted problems.
- Avoid Heat Exposure: In addition to the sun, avoid hot showers, steam, sauna baths, etc. for at least 48 hours from the procedure.
Meet Our Dermatologist
Be a super-mom, stay informed about pregnancy health updates with our weekly newsletter
[contact-form-7 id=”16292″ title=”Subscribe”]
FAQs Around Laser Hair Removal
Can Hair be permanently removed by Laser?
Laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction, but results can vary. For many, hair is permanently reduced, but occasional maintenance treatments may be needed to manage regrowth in certain areas.
Is Laser Hair Removal painful?
The level of discomfort during laser hair removal varies from person to person. Most patients describe the sensation as a mild sting or the snapping of a rubber band against the skin. Modern lasers come equipped with cooling mechanisms to make the procedure more comfortable.
How long does Laser Hair Removal last?
Results from laser hair removal can last several months to years, depending on factors like hair type, growth cycle, and the number of sessions completed. Maintenance treatments are sometimes needed to sustain the results.
How many sessions for Laser Hair Removal?
Typically, 6 to 8 sessions are required to achieve optimal results. The exact number depends on the area being treated, hair type, and individual response to the treatment.