Laser Hair Removal – Everything You Should Know About It

Painful plucking of unwanted body hair is old news now and has been swiftly replaced by the invention of laser hair removal. This procedure was first invented in the 1960s and was then approved by the FDA in 1997. It was only until 1995 that the laser hair treatment became commercially available. And for many, this was – and still is – a blessing.

The beauty industry has gone wild with technological advancements. From strange sheet masks to handheld face massagers are all taking everyone by the storm. Laser hair removal has been on the horizon for a long time, but there has been an increase in its popularity recently. There are still many people unaware of its technicalities regarding laser hair removal. So let’s enlighten you on this brilliant hair removal treatment.

Laser Hair Removal – How Does It Work?

Popular for its incredible speed and painlessness, laser hair removal works on the basis of the SPTL principle that targets one tissue at a time with a wavelength of light and a pulse. Since dark objects, surfaces or substances absorb light, a dark element found in our hair follicles is called melanin. The amount of melanin in our follicles determines the darkness of our hair. Therefore, the light rays used in laser hair removal are absorbed by this melanin, which then turns up extreme heat, causing damage or destruction to the hair follicles. However, the damage is temporary and needs several sessions to become permanent.

The laser light is full of heat and intensity. The laser device comes in contact with our skin’s surface, the laser hits our skin, which is then absorbed by the melanin and does damage to the follicle. This procedure is very simple and quick to look at, however, the doctors need to take some precautions.

The flashing laser is extremely hot and bright, so it can be disturbing or even damaging to the patient and the doctor’s eyes. Make sure your doctor gives you eye goggles to wear. Due to the heat, doctors also apply a cooling gel on the treatment area to sort of numb the skin there and make it capable of withstanding the heat.

Types of Laser Hair Removal

The key differences that exist in the types of laser lights are basically due to the size of their wavelength and the spot size. Some of the most effective types of lasers used for hair removal include:

• Alexandrite — This type of laser light has a relatively shorter wavelength but has a bigger spot. This kind of laser light is highly suitable for olive skin as defined by the Fitzpatrick scale. Due to the big spot size, this type also makes up to be a good choice for larger patches of hair such as on the torso and legs.
• Nd:YAG — While the name might sound really strange, this is the best kind of laser light for darker skin, and it has longer wavelengths.
• Diode — Diode is perhaps the most in-demand type of laser light today considering its suitability with various skin tones. Diode laser light is known for its capability to work at various wavelengths, allowing it to be used on most, if not, all skin types.

Caring and Maintenance Tips for Laser Hair Removal

You must search the internet thoroughly before you take a huge step and get laser hair removal for yourself. Use the fast-paced and economical AT&T new service to discover reliable laser clinics and book appointments online for further convenience. Here are some important tips that you can use before, during, and after your hair removal sessions:

• Sunscreen is a Must

Start using sunscreens before and after your laser sessions. Even after the sessions are over, you must not give up sunscreen and make it a part of your everyday regime. Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more is strongly recommended. Our skin tends to be highly sensitive to sun after the sessions, which is why sunscreen is a must. However, dermatologists and skin specialists emphasize on the usage of sunscreen for regular days as well.

• Avoiding Sun, Heat, and Sweat

Speaking of using sunscreen, let’s not forget to mention the need to keep your lasered area cool and unexposed. If it’s summer, avoid going out directly in the sun after a few hours of the session. Additionally, sweating can cause irritation and redness in the treated area. Avoid physical exertion, or sit in a cool room to avoid issues. However, this care is only required for 8-9 hours after the treatment.

• Cold Shower

If you have gotten the laser treatment in a tighter area, say your inner thighs, armpits, or any area that is covered majority of the time, a cold shower will help a lot. Cleaning this area with cold water can help reduce redness and the possibility of irritation. If it’s your face, then regularly washing it with cold water should do the job.

• Avoid Other Hair Plucking Alternatives

Since laser light targets the roots of the hair, plucking methods such as wax and tweezing also take the hair out from its root. This disturbs the hair growth cycle, and the laser treatment might not show as effective results as one might expect. The roots will also not be fully grown for the laser to work up to its potential. While you are already spending so much money on laser hair removal, stick to it and see if it’s worth your money rather than bungling it with other plucking techniques.

• Be Open About Yourself

As a woman getting laser hair removal for the first time, let the doctor know if you have or ever had PCOS, irregular periods, and anything of that sort. For anyone, men or women, who want to get laser treatment done, be open about any existing physical or mental conditions you might have, and any medication you are currently on. This helps your doctor give you the best treatment and consultation, and also prevents you from any adverse effects of the treatment.

Final Thought

As technology advances, each day, painful, more troublesome ways of doing things get easier with each development. Similarly, beauty, skincare, and of course, hair removal is no longer unaffected by this technological advancement. In fact, while we talk about big laser machines in professional laser clinics, you will be surprised to know that DIY, hand-held laser machines are also readily available now. Laser hair removal is an excellent example of inclusivity in the beauty world since it works on all types of hair, skin colors, and genders too.