If you`re fed up with shaving, waxing and other types of epilation, you might be ready to consider laser hair removal. Although it`s not inexpensive, the results last much longer than conventional methods, making it a cost-effective option over the long haul. Lasers can be used anywhere unwanted hair grows, including your face, arms, underarms, legs, and bikini area.

Is Everyone a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal works best on people with dark hair and light skin tones. It can be used on darker skin, but special care has to be taken to avoid causing hypopigmentation. Also, depending on your physiology, you may only remain hair-free for several months or years. In such cases, multiple treatments may be necessary. If you have a tan from sun exposure or sunless tanning products, you must wait until the tan fades completely before undergoing laser hair removal. A tan increases your risk of side effects such as blistering and discoloration. Avoid sun exposure four to six weeks before treatment.

Before undergoing laser treatment, you must avoid sun exposure for four to six weeks. If you have a tan or sunburn, you`ll need to wait until it fades completely. How does laser hair removal work? During the laser hair removal procedure, your doctor uses a laser instrument on various parts of your skin. Sometimes a cooling gel is applied to help protect the skin. The light from the laser penetrates the epidermis, and targets the hair follicles. The resulting damage inhibits hair growth. Several treatments may be necessary. You may experience mild discomfort during the procedure.

What can I Expect from Laser Hair Removal?

After your laser hair removal, treated areas will be slightly red and swollen. To be safe, avoid overexerting yourself through exercise and avoid sun exposure. Your skin should return to normal in 24 to 48 hours. Results vary, so it might take more than one or two treatments to achieve the state of hair removal that you desire.

Are there any Risks Associated with laser Hair Removal?

Although rare, side effects from laser hair removal include:

·    Hyperpigmentation (Darkening of the skin): This is usually temporary

·    Hypopigmentation (Lightening of the skin): This tends to be a concern for people with darker skin

·    Blistering and scarring: Occurs rarely

·    Skin crusting or scabbing: A temporary condition.

To better understand what`s involved in laser hair removal, talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of this procedure.

If you`re considering treatment at a laser hair removal clinic, make sure there is a board-certified physician on the premises and ask for referrals or testimonials from other patients.

Related Articles
	3 Ways to Hairless Happiness As more and more people opt for hairlessness each day, they begin seeking alternatives to less work and better results. Shaving is perhaps the easiest fix when dealing with a last minute emergency. However shaving often irritates those with sensitive (i.e. razor burn) , the hair grows back    ...Read more		Get a Great Bikini Line It’s no secret that many of us gear up for bathing suit weather by trying to lose a few pounds or smearing on the sunless tanner. A much less talked-about bathing suit preparation is getting the bikini line ready to go. There are a number of options in hair removal for that hair “down there.”   ...Read more