Removal of unwanted hair can be a frustrating, time consuming process. Laser hair removal has gained popularity in recent years as an effective way to eliminate or greatly reduce unwanted hair. It’s important to know that laser hair removal is a procedure that should only be done by certified professionals, and not everyone is a good candidate. If you’re considering Laser Hair Removal Albuquerque, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
What is laser hair removal? It’s the process of removing unwanted hair using pulses of laser light. The intense heat produced damages individual hair follicles, which prevents or inhibits future growth.
Does it hurt? It’s not painless; people report varying levels of discomfort. It’s most often described as the sensation of a rubber band being snapped against the skin. Many professionals will use topical numbing creams or cooling devices to make the procedure more comfortable. Sometimes redness and swelling occur, but this usually disappears within a day.
Is it safe? As with any procedure, there are risks. Some of the more common adverse reactions are swelling, irritation, burns and skin discoloration. These risks are greatly decreased by choosing a skilled, qualified professional who keeps their equipment updated and well maintained.
How many sessions will I need? Since laser hair removal targets the follicle, it only works on hair that is in an active growing cycle. All hair does not follow the same growing cycle. Some of your follicles will be active and treatable, and some won’t. For this reason, it generally takes six to eight sessions to treat all follicles.
Does it work for everyone? The best candidate for laser hair removal is someone with fair skin and dark hair. This is because the lasers target darker pigment. They’re not very effective on light colored hair. This is also what makes it unsafe for people with darker skin; they run a risk of skin discoloration and burns. Technology is catching up with this problem, though, and some clinics are now using laser machines that are safe for darker skin.
For some final tips, you shouldn’t wax or tweeze the area for six weeks prior to the procedure, and you should avoid sun exposure as it darkens the skin. A consultation with a professional will help you determine if laser hair removal is right for you.
