Laser Hair Removal

In the 1970s, doctors first began experimenting with laser hair removal. Twenty years later, hair removal was being done in select cities. Now, it is just another beautification process that women undergo, much like tanning. To remove the hair, a pulsating laser light is pointed at the designated area. The light then goes through the skin toward the hair follicle and destroys it. Abolishing the hair follicle makes the hair re-growth process much slower. Eventually, the hair will stop growing back altogether. Laser hair removal treatments should always be performed by a doctor, and can be found at most dermatologists’ offices. Since it takes multiple treatments to get the hair completely removed, most dermatologist’s offer package deals. To have the entire leg done usually costs around $1,000 (includes six sessions), whereas smaller areas, such as the bikini area, costs $500. Sometimes, although not often, medical insurance companies will cover the cost of laser hair removal. While there is a chance of side effects, they are very minor. For people with dark skin, lightening of the skin, otherwise known as hypo pigmentation, can occur. For those with pale skin, darkening of skin is a possibility. Other side effects may include blistering and scarring, changes in skin’s texture, temporary crusting and scabbing, and changes in the hair’s texture and color. For some people, hair continues growing back and extra treatments are needed. Most doctors request a preliminary appointment with those about to undergo a session of laser hair removal. They look at medical histories, as well as discuss the procedure and possible side effects. Also, doctors take pictures of the area that hair is being removed from. Before and after pictures help aide the doctors to see how the patient is reacting to the treatments. Laser hair removal treatments can take anywhere from 15 minutes to 120 minutes, depending on the area being treated. The patient wears protective goggles to keep harmful light from accidentally entering the eyes. The hand-held laser object is pressed against the skin by a nurse or doctor, as the laser passes through the skin to the follicle. Before getting started, many doctors will apply a numbing topical ointment since the activation of the laser can causing a stinging sensation. Many patients will also notice the smell of hair burning, which is completely normal. Redness, swelling and stinging may all occur within the first 48 hours after treatment. It is important to not exercise for 24 hours afterward since sweating can cause irritation. Avoiding the sun and tanning booths will help keep the skin protected, and the only touching of the area that should occur is light washing with soap and water. The patient must wait six to eight weeks before undergoing a second laser hair removal treatment. Depending on how the patient responds, hair can be reduced by 20 to 90%. For those who still have hair coming back after all of the treatments are through, they will need to continue seeing their dermatologist for maintenance treatments.