Laser hair removal can be a great way to get rid of hair that you just have no use for. There are many things to keep in mind when making the decision as to whether or not you should have it done. From finding out if you're a good candidate to deciding if it fits your budget, there are lot of things you should consider before picking up the phone to book your first appointment. Here are just a few of those points.
How does it work?
When calibrated correctly, lasers focus on melanin. When melanin (pigment of our skin and hair) is found, the laser focuses energy down to the follicle of the hair causing damage and ultimately the inability of the follicle to re-grow new hair. All lasers employed for hair removal use the same basic principle for their intended purpose, but many different methods to get there. From Alexandrite crystal focused lasers to CO2 fraxelated lasers, there are many options for your provider to choose from. This isn't really a concern for you though. Their experience and ability to properly fire the laser machine IS a concern for you.
Am I a candidate?
As you might imagine, laser methods and technologies are progressing very quickly in this day and age. Through this progression new candidates are being added to the list for laser hair removal. Hair removal lasers are calibrated to find melanin and focus more energy to the darker tones. The best candidates at this time are those with light skin and dark hair. However, with the advent of specialized dyes, those with blonde or gray hair are seeing their odds rise for being able to participate in this hair free movement. Those with both dark skin and dark hair can be treated as well with a very specialized laser and a highly skilled technician. With both dark skin and dark hair the laser can cause permanent damage to the melanin in the skin while removing the hair, leaving behind unsightly patches of hypo pigmented skin or skin without color.
How to choose a laser hair removal technician
Cosmetic esthetic services can be performed by a multitude of different level providers from Medical Estheticians to Physicians. That's really not to say one is better than the other. Any provider that is NOT a Physician must be overseen by one. Any technician firing a laser must be educated fully on the particular laser with which they are providing services. This education is given in part through classroom teaching of the theory of how lasers operate and in part by the manufacturer of the provider's chosen machine. Make sure when you are looking for a provider that you feel confident in their abilities. Find out how many years of experience they have, ask around for referrals and of course find and read reviews of their practice.
Does laser work anywhere on the body?
Laser hair removal can be performed almost anywhere on the body. A consult with your provider will arm you with the best advice for areas of removal for your personalized service. As long as the pigment of the hair is dark enough to attract the laser, you should be able to have it removed.
Comfort
Laser Hair Removal is relatively painless and it in the right hands this procedure should be quick and only slightly uncomfortable. After each pulse of the laser you may feel a very cooling plate of metal such as stainless steel or even gold. There is usually a cooling gel applied the skin as well. The room may be a bit chilly to compensate for the heat that will be radiated from the laser machine but it will warm up quickly. Overall, your experience should be comfortable and quick.
Future Regrowth. Wait. What?
Every person is different when it comes to hair growth and re-growth. There is a possibility that the hair will grow back, but almost assuredly it will not return in the same density pre-laser removal. In most cases your laser hair removal technician will suggest you return for follow up laser sessions. On average, six to seven treatments will be necessary to fully remove hair in most areas.
Cost
For many this method of hair removal can prove to be cost prohibitive. For others, it's totally worth it to never have to see those pesky chin hairs again. With an average of $400 per treatment, and an average 6-7 treatments for complete removal, laser hair removal can get pricey. Of course smaller areas like the upper lip start around $75 per treatment and larger areas such as the back can be as high as $900 per session. In the end though, no more razors, no more waxing, and no more tweezing. Permanent laser hair removal will be saving you both time and money in the long run.
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