Laser Hair Removal

Getting rid of unwanted hair has never been so easy, thanks to the laser hair removal techniques available. Laser hair removal has the ability to reach and treat hundreds of hair follicles simultaneously. One of laser therapy’s most attractive draw cards is the fact that it is a minor procedure, not a major surgery. It involves a simple process where the laser emits a beam of concentrated light that is reflected over the area being treated. Each laser used is unique from the other, with individual functions varying based on the colour of the light that they produce.

Why do I need it?

Excess hair for both men and women can be a nuisance. People opt for laser hair removal treatments wherever smooth skin is desired such as underarms, bikini line, back, shoulders and the neck. You must remember that cycles of hair growth vary on different parts of a body. Hair growth rate depends on a lot of specific factors like your hair colour, colour of your skin, coarseness of the hair, age of the individual and metabolism rate in the body. In such matters it is best that you seek the advice of a medical professional or a beauty expert with sound experience.

Tests to be conducted

Before undergoing laser hair removal treatment there are a few tests that must not be ignored. The skin patch testing is the first step taken before conducting a laser hair removal procedure. The result of this test will determine exactly what laser settings you will require and what precautions need to be taken. This test will be performed in an area that is less visible but that has the same skin type as the intended area of treatment. This testing should be allowed to show effect for a period of three days before it is re-examined and is tested for reaction.

Lasers available for treatment

There are many new models in lasers that are available for treatment such as the Apogee 9300 Alexandrite, Gemini Nd: YAG, Apogee 6200 Alexandrite, Fidelis XP Nd:YAG, Apex 800 Diode, EpiStar DS series Diode, VEGA Nd:YAG, SpaTouch IPL and SkinStation IPL.

The pain factor

A common notion is that there will be a certain pain factor involved but medical practitioners argue otherwise. When the procedure is in progress, most of the lasers used will usually emit either a cooling spray or also a cooling gel just before the laser pulse is used to ensure maximum protection. This is meant to protect the skin, as many complain of discomfort during the procedure. Many patients have likened the sensation to a light flicking of a rubber band on the skin. After the process the cooling devices are used to ensure minimum redness of the skin. This redness usually subsides after a few hours and not everyone will experience pain.