Laser hair removal utilizes a device that emits pulsed light to penetrate your skin and target only the pigment of your hair without harming any nearby cells.
Treatment sessions usually last 30 to over an hour. Your dermatologist uses handheld device pressed against your skin and pulsed light laser to zap it; you’ll feel it like a rubber band snapping against it!
Causes
Laser hair removal employs light energy to target and destroy hair follicles, without using UV radiation that could damage genetic material and potentially cause cancerous growths. It does not include any UV rays that could cause DNA mutations and thus does not pose any threat of skin cancer development.
There are risks associated with laser hair removal, but they’re typically minor. You might experience irritation, swelling, and redness which can be treated using cool compresses or an ice pack before typically dissipating within hours. Furthermore, you might develop skin crusting or scabs around the area of treatment which is especially likely if using an at-home kit or visiting an unqualified practitioner.
After having laser hair removal treatment, it is crucial that you avoid direct sunlight, following your physician’s advice on how to care for the skin post-surgery. Doing this reduces the risk of permanent changes to skin color like discoloration or darkening and tanning beds increase risk of skin cancer.
Some individuals may notice their skin changes after receiving laser hair removal treatment, as the laser damages pigment cells which produce colour in their bodies. Over time, however, the pigment cells will return to their natural color and restore themselves over time.
While laser hair removal rarely causes cancer, it still poses risks that should be carefully considered if you’re concerned. If this is your situation, consult a dermatologist who specializes in laser treatment for skin conditions for advice.
Laser hair removal can be an effective and safe solution to getting rid of unwanted body hair. Perfect for both men and women alike, it can be used on virtually any part of the body – including delicate areas. Regular treatments will depend on your individual needs and hair growth cycle – for fast-growing hair, it may need to be performed every four weeks; while slower growing locks might require treatment every six. Contact Nao Medical providers now to discover this safe yet effective treatment!
Symptoms
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure used to eliminate unwanted body hair, and reduce or eliminate the need for shaving, waxing or other forms of depilation. The procedure is non-invasive and usually only requires several sessions before desired results can be seen; results typically depend on each individual patient and treatment duration may differ accordingly. It involves using a hand-held laser device emitting high intensity heat which destroys hair follicles; temporary side effects may include itching or reddening but these typically subside within hours after treatment has taken effect.
Some may worry that laser hair removal could cause skin cancer because it uses radiation, which is potentially dangerous if exposed for extended periods. However, laser hair removal uses different kinds of radiation than those used in X-rays and CT scans as its wavelengths don’t penetrate deep tissues to change DNA directly.
Laser beams used for laser hair removal only affect the outer layers of skin, so as to not cause DNA mutation in cells beneath. As such, it is considered safe.
If a mole or pigmented spot appears to have changed after laser hair removal, you should consult a dermatologist immediately. This could be a telltale sign of melanoma – an aggressive form of skin cancer with potentially lethal outcomes.
A telltale sign of this condition is an abnormal, rapidly-growing lump or bump that resembles a bruise with red, purple or blue patches in its center; bleeding may occur and/or it may have an unusual texture that stands out from surrounding tissues.
As part of your laser treatment regime, it’s essential to use broad-spectrum sunscreen on the treated area during this period. Furthermore, follow your practitioner’s pre- and post-treatment instructions in order to decrease side effects; such as avoiding hot baths, applying ice packs to affected areas or taking an oral steroid cream medication.
Treatment
Laser hair removal uses light energy to destroy hair follicles responsible for producing unwanted hair, with minimal side effects when performed by a skilled medical professional. While some worry it might increase their risk of cancer due to radiation usage, laser beams don’t penetrate deep enough into skin to alter DNA in that way.
Laser hair removal is less invasive and quicker than other methods for eliminating unwanted hair, including shaving. Plus, it eliminates inflamed bumps and razor burn that often result from shaving – perfect for anyone tired of dealing with constant maintenance and irritation caused by other methods of hair removal.
Before and after laser hair removal, sun exposure must be limited in order to protect yourself from sunburns caused by laser beams. You should therefore limit time spent outdoors while using broad spectrum sunscreen when out. Plucking, waxing and electrolysis treatments disrupt hair follicles which should be left alone before receiving laser treatment – similarly it would be wise not to use sunless skin creams which darken skin pigmentation, making you an unsuitable candidate for the procedure.
If you have dark skin or hair, more treatment sessions may be required to reach desired results. Laser light energy can affect pigment in both, leading to changes in color or even an increase in hair count; it is less effective on blonde, gray, or white locks however.
Some patients may experience adverse side effects of laser hair removal, such as blistering, scarring or infections. Such side effects are more likely when performed by inexperienced practitioners; therefore it’s essential that a reputable dermatologist perform the procedure. He or she can assess your skin type, hair color and medical history in order to create customized treatment parameters with reduced risks and use cooling devices and gels during treatments to minimise discomfort while protecting the skin during treatment – these safeguards will ensure a positive experience with laser hair removal without unexpected side effects or side effects!
Prevention
Laser hair removal is a safe, efficient way to get rid of unwanted body hair without the use of razor blades, wax strips or depilatory creams. Laser treatments should only be carried out by trained, licensed professionals in order to minimize risk and side effects.
Laser treatments use intense beams of light to precisely target and destroy pigmented hair follicles, stopping future hair growth while decreasing enlarged pores or scarring. Treatment is quick, pain-free and long-lasting results are achieved.
Before opting for laser hair removal, it is advisable to visit a dermatologist with expertise in skin care. They will assess your medical history and perform a complete physical exam in order to make sure you’re eligible for the procedure as well as discussing expectations and any concerns.
Follow all pre and post treatment instructions given to you by your practitioner carefully, particularly with regard to sun exposure and tanning before and after appointments as UV rays from sunlight can damage skin pigmentation problems and worsen pigmentation conditions.
Laser hair removal poses a potential threat of altering the appearance of melanomas, potentially making them harder to identify and possibly giving it more time to spread and cause serious health complications. Therefore, it’s recommended that all moles or pigmented spots be examined using dermoscopic imaging by a dermatologist or skin cancer specialist before beginning laser treatments.
Spring Street Dermatology can assist in providing effective laser hair removal treatments in New York City. Reach out online or via telephone and set up your consultation in one of our three offices: SOHO, Tribeca or Uptown – where our experts will evaluate your skin color, hair type and provide recommendations for treatment as well as answer any queries that arise.
