Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that provides long-lasting hair removal.
Thelaserdamages thehair follicle, temporarily halting new hair growth.
It does not provide permanent hair removal but users can expect to have results last months to years.
Marco Sanasi / Getty Images
Marco Sanasi / Getty Images
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
This damages or destroys the area that produces the hair.
Lasers only target actively growing hair.
Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?
Laser hair removal significantly reduces the amount of hair growth.
If and when the hair regrows, there tends to be less of it.
To effectively reducehair growth, most people will need four to sixlaser hair removaltreatments.
Hair that does grow back will be less, thinner, or lighter in color.
Some people may have no hair growth for a period of time after a laser hair removal treatment.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
Laser hair removal treatments are typically sold as a package of several sessions.
Results will vary from person to person.
Does Hair or Skin Color Make a Difference?
A person’s hair and skin color make a difference in laser hair removal.
People with light skin and darker hair tend to have the best results.
The lasers target melanin, which is the pigment in the hair.
In people who have darker skin, melanin in the skin competes with the hair follicle for laser absorption.
The nd:YAG laser is effective in people with darker skin and does not cause hyperpigmentation or burns.
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Laser hair removalis generally well tolerated.
There may be some minor discomfort, but it should not produce significant pain.
After treatment, the skin can feel swollen and appear red, like a mild sunburn.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
When laser hair removal is performed by a trained professional it is considered a safe procedure.
Side effects tend to be mild but in rare cases can be severe.
The cost will vary greatly based on the body site treated.
Some sites like theunderarmsare small and are treated quickly.
Whereas, large areas like thelegsor back will take longer and cost more.
This provides long-lasting hair loss in the treated area.
Users can expect to see results for months to years after they have received several laser hair removal treatments.
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