Facial hair removal
Facial hair removal uses a concentrated beam of light called a laser to remove unwanted hair. The laser light is absorbed by the hair pigment, which converts the light energy into heat. The resulting heat damages the hair follicles, preventing or delaying future hair growth.
Price
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First item on the list $20
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Second item on the list $9
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Third item on the list $32
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Risks
The likelihood of side effects from laser hair removal can vary based on several factors, including skin type, hair colour, treatment plan, and how healthy pre and post-treatment care guidelines are followed. Some typical side effects of this procedure are:
Skin irritation can manifest post-laser hair removal, leading to temporary discomfort, redness, and swelling. Nonetheless, these signs and symptoms tend to dissipate within several hours.
Changes in skin pigmentation may arise due to laser hair removal. The impacted skin might either darken or lighten, which could be temporary or permanent. Those who do not avoid sun exposure before and after the treatment, particularly those with darker skin, are more prone to lightening skin.
Occasionally, laser hair removal can cause blistering, crusting, scarring, or changes in skin texture. Infrequent side effects might include the greying of treated hair or an unexpected increase in hair growth in the treated areas, particularly those with darker skin.
It is advised to refrain from using laser hair removal on the eyelids, eyebrows, and adjacent areas, given the potential risk of severe eye injury.
During the procedure
The doctor employs a handheld laser device on your skin during the procedure. Depending on the laser’s type, a cooling feature on the laser apparatus or a cool gel might protect your skin and lessen the chances of side effects.
When the doctor activates the laser, its beam travels through the skin, reaching the hair follicles. This heat from the laser damages the follicles, hindering hair growth. You might feel some discomfort, similar to a warm pinprick, and the cooling device or gel may cause a sensation of coldness.
The duration of the treatment varies with the area size; a small area, like the upper lip, can be treated in just a few minutes, while a larger area, such as the back, might take more than an hour.
Post-procedure
Experiencing redness and swelling for a few hours after laser hair removal is typical.
Applying ice to the treated region to alleviate discomfort is beneficial. Should a skin reaction post-laser hair removal occur, a doctor might prescribe a steroid cream for the affected area.
It’s crucial to avoid sun exposure and not use tanning beds for six weeks or following the procedure as your doctor advises. Also, it’s advisable to use a broad-spectrum SPF30 sunscreen daily.
Results
Hair typically doesn’t fall out immediately but sheds over days to weeks. This process can create an impression of continued hair growth. Due to hair’s natural growth and loss cycle, multiple sessions are usually needed, with the laser being most effective on hair follicles in their new growth phase.
The outcomes of laser hair removal can significantly vary and are challenging to foresee. Many people experience hair removal that lasts for several months, and in some instances, it can persist for years. However, it’s essential to understand that laser hair removal doesn’t guarantee permanent removal. Should hair regrow, it generally appears finer and lighter in colour.
Periodic maintenance laser treatments might be needed to maintain long-term hair reduction.
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FAQ
Why it's done?
Laser hair removal effectively diminishes undesired hair. Frequently treated areas include the legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and the bikini line. Almost all areas can undergo treatment except for the eyelid and its adjacent area. Skin with tattoos should not be subjected to this treatment.
Hair colour and skin type influence the success of laser hair removal. The fundamental principle is that the hair pigment should absorb the light rather than the skin pigment. The laser aims to target the hair follicle without causing damage to the skin. Therefore, optimal results are typically observed when there’s a distinct contrast between the hair and skin colour, such as dark hair against light skin.
There’s a higher risk of skin damage when there’s little contrast between the hair and skin colour. However, recent advancements in laser technology have enabled treating individuals with darker skin tones. Laser hair removal tends to be less effective for hair colours that do not effectively absorb light, such as grey, red, blond, and white. Despite this, ongoing efforts are to develop laser treatments suitable for lighter hair colours.
How you prepare?
When contemplating laser hair removal, it is wise to choose a doctor who is board-certified in a relevant field, like dermatology or cosmetic surgery, and possesses experience with your skin type. If the procedure will be carried out by a physician assistant or a licensed nurse, it is crucial to ensure that a doctor is on-site and available for supervision during the treatments. Exercising caution is essential when considering spas, salons, or other venues allowing nonmedical personnel to remove laser hair.
Before undergoing laser hair removal, arranging a consultation with a doctor to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you is necessary. In this consultation, the doctor will usually undertake the following:
- Ask for your medical history, including any medication use, history of skin disorders or scarring, and past hair removal procedures.
- Discuss the risks, benefits, and realistic expectations of laser hair removal, including its limitations and what it can and cannot do for you.
- Take photographs for before-and-after comparisons and long-term reviews.
Discussing the treatment plan and its costs during the consultation is crucial. Laser hair removal usually isn’t covered by insurance and is an out-of-pocket expense.
The doctor will give specific pre-treatment instructions for laser hair removal, which might include:
- Adhering to your doctor’s advice on minimising sun exposure before and after treatment is essential. Make sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF30 sunscreen when going outdoors.
- To lighten your skin, avoiding sunless skin creams that darken your skin is advised. Your doctor may prescribe a skin bleaching cream if you have a recent tan or darker skin.
- Avoiding other hair removal methods like plucking, waxing, and electrolysis for at least four weeks before treatment is advised, as these methods can disturb the hair follicle.
- Consult with your doctor about medications such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs that should be avoided before the procedure.
- Trimming and shaving the area to be treated the day before the laser procedure is recommended. This action helps remove hair above the skin, preventing damage to the surface skin from burnt hairs while maintaining the shaft below the surface.
What you can expect?
Laser hair removal generally requires between two and six sessions. The interval between sessions varies based on the area being treated. For parts of the body where hair proliferates, such as the upper lip, treatments might be scheduled at intervals of four to eight weeks. In contrast, for areas experiencing slower hair growth, such as the back, treatments could be spaced every 12 to 16 weeks.
During each session, protective goggles shield the eyes from the laser. An assistant might shave the area if necessary. The doctor could apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment site to lessen discomfort during the procedure.
Is it possible to have laser hair removal on the face?
A laser hair removal face professional can assist with determining the most effective treatment areas for laser hair removal.
The most frequently treated areas for laser hair removal on the face are:
- upper lip
- chin
- beard area
- eyebrows
- sideburns
What is the process of laser hair removal on the face?
Laser hair removal on the face works similarly to other body areas. During the procedure at the office, the following steps are typically followed:
- During the consultation, it will be determined which treatment suits you and which areas of your face will be targeted.
- Before the procedure, your face will be prepared. This may include marking with a facial pencil, shaving any existing hair, or applying gel to the treatment area.
- You will be given eye protection.
- A handheld laser device will methodically treat the designated area.
- Post-treatment, your face will be cleaned and given aftercare instructions.
Laser treatment sessions are generally quick, usually lasting 10-15 minutes, with the actual laser application taking just 1-5 minutes.
What is the effectiveness of laser hair removal for the face?
Laser hair removal has been established as an effective technique for hair removal from any body area. The number of sessions needed varies based on the area undergoing treatment and personal factors, including skin and hair types.
Laser techniques have proven more efficient than electrolysis or waxing for facial hair removal.
Evidence suggests a substantial decrease in hair growth following the first laser hair removal session. Conversely, methods like electrolysis or waxing do not exhibit a marked change in the rate of hair growth.
Is laser hair removal considered safe for the face?
Laser hair removal is recognised as safe for facial application, yet some individuals have noted temporary side effects.
Post-treatment, people might encounter slight redness or swelling for a short duration, which can vary based on their skin type.
There are instances where patients might temporarily feel burning, notice scabbing, or observe changes in their skin colour, though these events are not frequent. Professionals in laser treatment will offer customised procedures and guidance to lessen any possible side effects tailored to your distinct skin and hair types.
