Are You a Good Candidate

For Laser Hair Removal?

By Ashley Uter

Laserworks of Louisiana

 

It’s no secret that people want convenience in their busy lives. Fighting with ingrown hair, razor burn or unsightly hair is just another way that both men and women find themselves slowed down from day to day. We often hear from people who want a more convenient and permanent way to deal with those pesky cosmetic burdens, but have questions and doubts about laser hair removal. Here are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about laser hair removal:

 

1. What causes my body hair to grow so fast? Is there any way I can deal with it?

Unsightly and quickly growing hair can be caused by genetics or possible hormone imbalances. Laser hair removal is an FDA-approved method of reducing or removing unwanted hair by 40 to 80 percent.

 

2. How does laser hair removal work?

 Laser hair removal works by destroying the hair at the root using laser light. When the laser hits the hair follicle, that hair is instantly removed. This can only happen during the growth phase, when the hair is actually attached to the root. Therefore, multiple sessions are needed to clear hair in an area. Sessions are spaced between six and 10 weeks and six to eight treatments are recommended for 85 to 90 percent clearance. Each session takes between fifteen minutes and one hour, depending on the area. For example, laser hair removal on the lip takes a minimum amount of time, while leg hair can take over an hour to clear.

 

3. Can anyone get laser hair removal treatment?

Hair color and skin type influence the success of laser hair removal. It's most successful on people with dark hair and light skin, although it can be used on darker skin with fewer chances at success.

Unfortunately, laser hair removal does NOT work for hair without color, although the technology is in the works. This means that white, blonde, light brown or light red hair will not achieve success through laser hair removal treatment.

 

4. Does it hurt?

Laser hair removal sounds painful, but it is no more painful than waxing in most cases. It has been described by many to be like having a quick rubber band popping against the skin.

 

5. Are there any side effects?

There are no lasting side effects to laser hair removal treatment. However, there are certain measures one should consider before and after treatment. For instance, sunning, tanning beds and tanning creams during or after the treatment can take away the effectiveness of lasers, as well as create problems.   Also, those who have unsightly hair due to hormone imbalances should meet with an endocrinologist before and during treatment. This is crucial to make sure the hormones are under control and laser hair removal sessions are successful.

 

6. What’s the difference between laser hair removal treatment and electrolysis?

While laser hair removal uses an intense pulse of light to destroy hair at the follicle, electrolysis requires an aesthetician to insert a sterile needle with an electrical pulse into each hair follicle. While it can remove the types of hair laser hair removal cannot, pain from electrolysis is said to be worse than laser treatment. It also takes many more visits to completely remove hair, and each session takes longer since a needle must be inserted into each individual follicle.

 

7. Can I get laser hair removal treatment at any time?

While you can begin treatment at any time, fall or winter is a great time to think about laser hair removal. Since full hair removal can take a few months to complete, beginning in the cold months will ensure you’re beautiful and ready when the summer months arrive.

 

Laserworks of Louisiana is located in The Metabolic Center under the supervision of endocrinologist, Dr. Rajat Bhushan. Laserworks offers laser hair removal and other procedures such as skin redness, sun damage, fine lines and broken vessels. To learn more or receive a free consultation from 16-year skin-care expert Gena Knaps, call 413-5798 or email Ashley Uter at ashleyuter@yahoo.com.