Laser Hair Removal: Devices, Benefits, and Side Effects
Are you in search of a more effective method than using a razor or home epilation devices to remove unwanted hair? Laser hair removal is an advanced and common technique for permanently eliminating unwanted hair. In this article from Lona Spa Calgary’s website, we explore various aspects of this method, including types of laser devices, benefits, side effects, and important considerations to help you make an informed decision. If you are looking for the best laser treatment for hair removal center near you, reading this article will assist you in choosing the best laser hair removal center in the city of Calgary.
How Does the Process of Laser Hair Removal Work?
this method operates by directing laser light onto the hair follicles. This light is absorbed by the pigments in the hair, leading to the destruction of the follicle. The result? Halted hair growth and shedding after 1 to 2 weeks. To achieve optimal results, this process is repeated over several sessions at intervals of four to six weeks. If you require free consultation, feel free to contact us at Lona Spa Calgary.
Stages of Laser Hair Removal
The stages of hair removal using laser are as follows:
- Hair Preparation: Initially, trim the hair to a few millimeters above the skin surface to enable the laser to act more effectively.
- Topical Anesthesia: Before the treatment, the use of a numbing cream or local anesthetic may be recommended to reduce the pain associated with the laser process.
- Laser Device Settings: The precise configuration of the laser device is carried out based on individual characteristics such as skin color, hair texture, and the location of unwanted hair growth.
- Laser Operation: Using laser light pulses that are accurately targeted at the desired areas, the unwanted hair shafts are targeted, and the skin’s reactions and tolerance are carefully evaluated.
- Post-Laser Care: To aid healing and reduce any swelling or inflammation, it is advised to immediately use ice packs after the treatment and consistently apply specialized creams or lotions for the skin.
In this process, ensuring the choice of a trained specialist and the use of up-to-date technology is important for maximizing effectiveness and minimizing side effects.
Important Pre and Post Laser Hair Removal Tips
Before undergoing laser hair removal, there are crucial steps to observe that can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment and reduce potential side effects:
- Cease Epilation and Electrolysis: Refrain from any hair removal methods, such as epilation or electrolysis, which directly affect the hair roots at least six weeks before starting laser treatment, allowing the laser to target hair follicles with maximum power.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight exposure can lengthen the skin recovery process post-laser and increase the risk of skin color changes. Therefore, avoid prolonged sun exposure six weeks before and after laser treatment.
- Use High SPF Sunscreen Creams: If sun exposure is unavoidable, it is recommended to use sunscreen with a high protection level (SPF 30 or higher).
- Avoid Skin Sensitizing Medications and Products: Refrain from using medications that may sensitize the skin, such as certain antibiotics and products containing retinoids, before laser treatment.
- Prevent Skin Damage: Avoid activities that may irritate or damage the skin, such as using harsh scrubs, peeling creams, or vigorous exfoliation, before laser treatment.
- Report Skin Changes to the Specialist: If any unusual skin reactions are observed, such as severe redness or irritation before the start of the laser sessions, inform the physician or laser specialist.
- Careful Post-Laser Maintenance: After laser treatment, meticulous cleaning and moisturizing of the skin are crucial. Use soothing creams or lotions recommended by the skin specialist to prevent inflammation and expedite the healing process.
Adhering to these tips will assist in improving the results of laser hair removal and prevent potential side effects.
What is full body laser, and how long does it take?
Full body laser refers to the removal of unwanted hair from all parts of the body and is recognized as a fast, easy, safe, and effective method for body hair correction. The duration of full body laser sessions varies due to various factors, including the amount and volume of body hair, individual hormone levels, hair color, and skin type. On average, laser for the entire body takes approximately six to eight sessions, each lasting around 45 minutes, with intervals of approximately six to eight weeks between sessions.
For one or two days following laser hair removal, the skin in the treated area may resemble sunburn. In this regard, the use of cool compresses and moisturizers may help expedite skin recovery. After this period and over the next month, the treated hairs will shed. Therefore, to help prevent temporary changes in the skin color in the treated area, it is recommended to use sunscreen. It is uncommon for the treated skin to blister, but individuals with darker skin may have a higher risk of blistering. Other potential side effects such as swelling, redness, and skin irritation are common and entirely normal during laser treatment of various body areas.
Is the type of device used for laser hair removal important?
Yes, the type of laser device used is important and affects the effectiveness of the treatment and your chances of experiencing side effects, such as minimizing the risk of damage to melanin-producing cells (the main pigment in skin and hair, produced in melanocytes). Given this principle, it is recommended that people with lighter skin and darker hair use IPL devices, Alexandrite lasers, or diode lasers. Those with darker skin and darker hair relative to their skin tone can use Nd: YAG lasers or diode lasers, and those with lighter hair can use diode lasers.
Remember that the energy of the laser and its short pulses are adjusted according to your skin type to control unintended tissue damage. Also, some laser systems perform better in certain areas of the body than others, so it is better to consult with your doctor or specialist about your skin type, hair type, treatment preferences, and the area you intend to treat before proceeding with laser hair removal.
It is better for people with lighter skin and darker hair to use IPL devices, Alexandrite lasers, or diode lasers. Those with darker skin and darker hair compared to their skin tone can use Nd: YAG lasers or diode lasers, and those with lighter hair can use diode lasers.
What is full body laser, and how long does it take?
Full body laser refers to the removal of unwanted hair from all parts of the body and is recognized as a fast, easy, safe, and effective method for body hair correction. The duration of full body laser sessions varies due to various factors, including the amount and volume of body hair, individual hormone levels, hair color, and skin type. On average, laser hair removal for the entire body takes approximately six to eight sessions, each lasting around 45 minutes, with intervals of approximately six to eight weeks between sessions.
The best laser device for body and facial hair removal
Today, the use of the Clarity laser device is considered one of the golden options for laser hair removal on the body. This is because the Clarity laser can effectively address a wide spectrum of skin and hair types. It’s noteworthy that the Clarity laser comprises a dual-wavelength platform, combining the effectiveness of two wavelengths (Alexandrite with a long-pulsed 755nm and Nd: YAG with a wavelength of 1064nm). This combination allows it not only to remove unwanted hair but also to eliminate pigment-related lesions and vascular lesions on various skin types. However, it’s possible that this type of laser device may not be accessible at the treatment center you visit. Therefore, we recommend checking the type and brand of the laser device used by the treatment center, as well as the depth of penetration and width of the laser pulses, before proceeding.
In this regard, some specialists may claim that diode laser is a better option for darker skin tones or individuals of Middle Eastern descent compared to Nd: YAG. However, it should be noted that the difference between these two devices is truly negligible. The diode laser device may have more side effects compared to Nd: YAG and may result in a more painful experience during treatment. Therefore, the emphasis of this article is to stick to the use of the Nd: YAG laser device with a wavelength of 1064 nanometers in such conditions. Also, to choose a device that suits your needs, it’s better to consider the following factors:
- Treatment area size: As the size of the treatment area increases, a lower percentage of laser energy is scattered outside the treated area. This factor not only speeds up the duration of treatment sessions but also increases penetration depth and allows for adjusting the device energy to a lower and safer mode.
- Cooling system: An efficient cooling system can reduce the need to apply ice on the skin during treatment. This, in turn, can result in fewer side effects for the user.
The Difference Between Laser Hair Removal and Electrolysis:
Laser hair removal involves the penetration of light waves into the hair follicles, causing damage to the follicle cells using the energy of the received wavelength. On the other hand, electrolysis is a method that permanently damages the hair follicle and prevents hair growth forever. In the electrolysis process, a technician uses a needle to target the hair follicle and applies an electric current to it, pulling out the hair root. In general, both laser hair removal and electrolysis provide long-term solutions to prevent hair growth.
Is Laser Hair Removal Harmful During Pregnancy?
While recent research indicates that laser hair removal does not pose any long-term risks, many healthcare professionals advise against undergoing laser hair removal during pregnancy and exposing oneself to even a low risk. Laser hair removal is considered safe, but currently, there is no long-term study analyzing the effects of this procedure on the fetus. It’s important to note that this article does not claim any danger of laser treatment for pregnant women. Rather, it emphasizes the lack of sufficient research in this area. However, laser hair removal specialists consider it safe during lactation, but some experts recommend avoiding the procedure on the breasts.
Is Laser Hair Removal Possible for White Hair?
As you may have noticed, the laser hair removal method is designed based on targeting the pigments in the hair follicles (melanin). Since white hairs practically lack pigmentation, it’s disappointing to note that laser hair removal does not eliminate white hairs. However, there are other methods such as electrolysis (for white and thick hairs) that effectively remove white hairs. Additionally, using carbon-based dyes produced for this purpose can color the hairs, allowing the laser to be absorbed by the carbon, heating the follicle and reducing its size effectively.
Closing Remarks
As mentioned throughout this article, there are various models of laser devices available in the market today for removing unwanted body hair. It is challenging to make a general and precise conclusion about which devices are suitable for whom. Depending on the skin color and the color of body hair, some lasers will be more effective than others. In some cases, using multiple laser devices for different body areas may be necessary for certain individuals.
