How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Ever wondered how laser hair removal works? You’re not alone! It’s a question many ask, and that’s why we want to share. Laser hair removal isn’t the scary process many may think it is. In fact, it’s more common today than it was years ago. Laser hair removal is safe, effective, and easy. Read on to learn more about the science behind laser hair removal treatments.
About Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal has been around for more than 20 years and continues to grow in popularity year after year. It’s not surprising that more and more people want to leave behind messy wax strips and rusty razors for a solution that gives them smooth, hair-free skin year-round.
We estimate over 5 million treatments are done annually. While laser hair removal is popular for many reasons, the most important reasons are how quickly the laser hair removal treatments can be done and how effective they are at removing unwanted body hair.
Laser hair removal is commonly performed on the face, including the upper lip, chin, and sideburns. Other popular body areas are arms, underarms, legs, and bikini area. Areas like the upper lip can be done in only a few minutes. A larger area, like the back or legs, could take up to an hour.
over 5 million laser hair removal treatments are done annually …
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser refers to the concentrated wavelength of light that is used to permanently eliminate the root of the unwanted hair.
During a treatment, the laser targets the root of the hair by focusing on the melanin or pigment in the hair. A pulse of light then essentially “zaps” the root of the hair follicle. The pigment in the hair absorbs the light which causes the root of the hair to overheat. The follicle is destroyed, and hair can never grow again.
The provider uses a handheld laser on your skin. The laser pulses are similar to a snap of heat or a rubber band snap. At more sophisticated providers, a built-in cooling mist or a gel might be used to protect the skin and lessen any potential discomfort or pain.
When are laser hair removal treatments most effective?
Many laser hair removal providers say the laser is most effective when treating individuals who have lighter-colored skin with dark, coarse hair to target. However, at more advanced companies, many of the lasers on the market offer treatments that are effective for all skin tones and most hair colors when used properly. Laser hair removal tends not to work well on very light blonde (bleach blonde), light red, grey, or white hair because there is not enough pigment in the root of the hair for the laser to target.
Who performs laser hair removal treatments?
At reputable laser hair removal providers, the procedures are most commonly performed by or under the supervision of a physician, nurse practitioner, registered nurse, or laser technician. Laws surrounding treatment requirements vary by state. In fact, some allow estheticians or even individuals with no required education to perform laser hair removal treatments.
What happens after laser hair removal treatment?
People who undergo laser hair removal often have permanent hair loss after an average of seven to ten treatments. Multiple treatments are needed to ensure all spots have been covered in the treatment area. Hair grows in several phases, and a laser can only impact active, growing hair follicles.
Stay out of the sun on treated areas, or use broad-spectrum sunscreen before treatment to keep your skin as close to your baseline or natural color as possible. This reduces the chance of reactions or burns.
After the treatment, you can continue with your day as normal with no downtime. There can sometimes be redness of the skin or swelling depending on the level of intensity and other factors.
This goes away quickly with nothing more than an ice pack needed to alleviate the mild discomfort unless there is a histamine or other skin reaction.
Finally, following the treatment, hairs will begin to “shed” over seven to ten days with daily skin exfoliation.