subject: How Safe is Laser Hair Removal? [print this page] How Safe is Laser Hair Removal? How Safe is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal clinics are popping up all over the place and if you've never had one before or know anyone who have used them, then it can be quite scary. If lasers can kill your hair follicles, will it burn your skin? Is there a chance you might get scarred? Who wants scarred skin just for the convenience of not having to shave regularly? Finally, you have to consider whether you want to remove hair forever and throw away the shavers, waxes, creams, etc.
How does Laser Hair Removal Work?
A high intensity pulse of light energy is emitted by the laser device. When the laser energy reaches the hair follicle, it damages the hair follicle, retarding future hair growth. Since the hair is surrounded by skin that would also be bombarded with this brief but intense heat, a cooling system is required to protect the skin. Methods to cool and protect the surrounding skin from damage include a chilled laser hair removal tip, a gel or a spray.
Types of Hair Removal Lasers
The Ruby Laser works best for light and fine hair. Ruby Lasers cannot be used on patients with dark or tanned skin. They also operate on a relatively small area of skin at a time. These traits have made it an unpopular choice with professional clinics.
The Alexandrite Laser is the quickest of the laser types and is excellent for treating large body areas and is also suitable for patients with light to olive skin. This laser is one of the most popular lasers for hair removal.
The Diode Laser is the most suitable for darker skin types, but is not as effective on light and fine hair. It has rapid repetition rates, allowing for quick treatment of large body areas.
The Nd:Yag long pulse laser can safely be used on all skin types. It also has rapid repetition rates, allowing treatment of large body areas quickly. However, patients have reported more discomfort when using this laser. It is also not as effective for light and fine hair when compared with other lasers.
What to Expect from your Laser Hair Removal Treatment
You will be required to wear dark safety goggles to shield your eyes from the laser light. Once the laser is turned on, you may notice a slight stinging or prickling sensation. A topical anesthetic may be applied to the area being treated to minimize any discomfort, however most people will tolerate it. You may also smell burning hair, which is nothing to be worried about.
After the laser hair removal, you may experience redness and swelling. This is normal and will dissipate quickly. Be sure to apply moisturizers to keep the skin moist and hydrated as the laser would have dried and irritated your skin.
What to Expect from your Hair Removal Technician
Laser hair removal is a safe and fairly non-invasive procedure. However, if your technician does not follow all safety protocols, you risk your appearance as well as the success of the procedure. Always make sure that your technician is certified to do laser hair removal and that a "supervising doctor" or dermatologist is present in case of unexpected problems or reactions. Not having a certified technician or supervising doctor present may be illegal in some states and you may be putting your health in danger. If something goes wrong with the treatment, you may not be able to be medically treated appropriately. In addition, health insurance may not cover this negligence.
So, hopefully you have learned enough to know what to expect from using lasers as a method of hair removal and decide whether this is right for you. For further news and research on the latest on laser hair removal, go to the Remove Hair Forever Blog.
