Laser hair removal offers an alternative to waxing, shaving, creams and electrolysis treatments for permanent hair reduction. Treatment sessions are quick and comfortable while results will last forever.
Instead of waxing, laser treatments do not disturb the pigment in hair follicles; therefore, to optimize results it is wise to refrain from shaving the area being treated prior to an appointment.
Darker Skin Tones
Laser hair removal has long been a popular treatment, yet early devices couldn’t effectively differentiate between pigment in your skin and dark hair, leading to light spots and blisters around surrounding tissue. Thanks to advances in laser technology, however, this procedure has become much safer for people of color.
Step one of this process should involve consulting with a cosmetic dermatologist with extensive experience treating patients of all skin colors – including dark complexions. They should possess the necessary equipment and understand how best to perform the procedure, according to Downie. “Choosing someone experienced can reduce risks,” states the dermatologist.
When selecting a practitioner, inquire into what kind of laser they utilize and its effects on various skin tones. Avoid IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), an obsolete method which has caused severe burns for people of color. Instead, opt for one with two lasers: one safe for fair skin (Nd:YAG laser) and another specifically tailored to darker complexions (such as IPL).
Ultimately, if you decide on this route, it’s essential that you treat your skin gently leading up to your appointment. Avoid exfoliating products containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and any other ingredients which could increase skin sensitivity to laser energy; avoid sun exposure especially fake tanning, since that could hinder how the laser penetrates skin layers effectively.
Laser hair removal procedures tend to be quick and relatively painless, though you may feel something similar to rubber band snapping against your skin. If any discomfort does arise, consult a board-certified dermatologist who may provide topical anesthetics for the treatment area before beginning. In order to protect yourself after laser hair removal treatments, avoid direct sun exposure as prolonged UVB ray exposure increases sensitivity leading to hyperpigmentation; additionally invest in high SPF sunscreen tailored towards your skin tone for best results.
Fine Hair
Hair removal techniques such as shaving, waxing and creams can be time-consuming and painful; not to mention expensive. Laser hair removal offers a safe, fast and cost-effective alternative. With some patience and dedication you could achieve permanent hair reduction and never need to shave or wax again!
However, not everyone experiences great results from laser hair removal. Some individuals experience regrowth of fine or light hair while others don’t see much change at all. Lasers attract melanin pigment and thus work better with darker hair colors and skin tones; therefore it is vital that dermatologists who specialize in laser hair removal possess experience using it on all types of skin types and hair colors.
An experienced dermatologist will utilize a cutting-edge, medical grade laser for treatment. Its long wavelength allows deep penetration without harming the surface layer of skin, and its high repetition rate enables quick treatment of large areas – saving time and discomfort by bypassing local anesthetic injections prior to each session.
Although discomfort should be minimal, many patients compare the sensation to that of snapping rubber bands against your skin. For optimal results, multiple sessions at monthly intervals (typically 4-6) may be required in order to reach up to 90% hair reduction; in addition, annual touch-ups may be necessary in order to maintain hair-free skin.
Between treatments, it’s also essential to refrain from hair removal methods like waxing and plucking in order to stop new follicles entering their growth phase, which is essential for successful results. Laser treatments can still help manage hair growth by targeting active follicles and stopping new hairs from emerging.
If you are seeking an easier hair removal method, arrange a consultation at Allura Dermatology. We can help determine whether laser is suitable for you and offer treatments necessary to reach the level of smoothness that best suits your individual needs.
Thick Hair
Laser hair removal differs from razors and waxes in that it permanently destroys hair follicles, leading to smoother and younger-looking skin without ongoing maintenance needs. Unfortunately, several factors affect hair density and growth cycle – age, ethnicity, weight, hormones, diet and medications can all have an effect on how effective a treatment may be; as a result multiple treatments may be required for maximum long-term benefits.
Hiring an experienced provider is key to having an enjoyable laser hair removal experience. Lasers can be dangerous when handled incorrectly and result in unwanted side effects like hyperpigmentation and scarring.
Select a dermatologist familiar with treating skin tones similar to your own and hair color. Laser treatments specifically tailored for darker skin tones like Nd: YAG laser are more efficient at targeting dark hair without burning or discoloration, such as those available from IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).
Prior to your treatment, be sure to avoid tanning beds and sun exposure in order to ensure your skin stays properly hydrated, minimizing its chances of burning or blistering during your session. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to shave or trim any areas you plan on treating several days beforehand, which will allow the laser to more accurately locate and destroy hair follicles more efficiently.
Last but not least, make sure to discuss your goals with your dermatologist. Some patients are content to leave behind some coarse or thick wiry hairs; others want all theirs removed. Make sure your expectations for treatment are realistic and understand how many sessions may be necessary in order to reach your desired goal.
Are you tired of shaving and waxing to remove unwanted hair? Book an appointment at Khrom Dermatology & Aesthetics now – our GentleLase laser hair removal system provides safe, noninvasive hair removal that minimizes side effects while producing maximum results. Contact us to find out more or book online – we look forward to helping you achieve smoother, younger-looking skin!
Sensitive Skin
Laser hair removal may still be beneficial if you have particularly delicate skin. But to get optimal results, it’s essential that you consult with a dermatologist trained in medical-grade laser technology and has experience treating a wide variety of skin types/tones. A board-certified cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Green can recommend additional laser treatments that reduce signs of aging, sun damage and pigmentation for improved cosmetic results.
Lasers use long-pulsed beams of light that penetrate skin layers to reach melanin in hair follicles, heating and damaging them so they no longer produce hairs. Because lasers do not damage surrounding tissue, treatments using this technology have earned a reputation for being relatively painless and noninvasive.
Some individuals experience mild discomfort during laser treatments, though the sensation usually subsides quickly. If this concerns you, ask your dermatologist about applying topical anesthetic before beginning. Also avoid applying products containing high concentrations of active ingredients – chemical exfoliants and retinol serums in particular – on the targeted area for three days prior to your session as this will further diminish any discomfort that might be felt during this treatment.
For optimal results, schedule laser sessions every four to six weeks (or as your doctor advises). Between sessions, avoid direct sunlight and follow any specific recommendations from your provider for healthy skin maintenance. If any redness or swelling develops post-treatment, attempt to cover it up using a bandage until further investigation can be made.
Are You Tired of Shaving and Waxing? Laser Hair Removal May Be an Option
