If you’re reading this article, you’re probably doing the necessary research before signing up for laser hair removal.
While spas and salons will push you to get the treatment claiming that it is absolutely safe and free of any risks, you’ll want to know about the possible downsides and all the things that can go wrong. As an aware consumer, it is always advisable that you do your homework before signing up for any procedure.
Let’s Begin by Understanding What the FDA has to Say
Should you check this article on the FDA website, you will learn that the organization allows manufacturers to build and market laser devices that can remove hair. However, the companies must clearly state that their products do not remove follicles entirely, but can only reduce them by targeting the melanin in the hair roots. By taking several sessions over a period of 4 to 12 months, users can hope to experience significant reduction in the growth of body hair. Certain laser hair removal devices may work more efficiently than others, and the FDA does not support one company over another. As for whether or not the procedure is painless, the agency maintains that there isn’t enough data to support the fact that there is no discomfort involved.
Having talked about the FDA’s stance on laser hair removal, know that lasers are one of the most effective treatments available today that can give you permanent smooth skin. That’s because the laser beams kill the root of the follicle so that it can no longer produce hair.
But, are there any potential risks you should be aware of? Read ahead to understand some of them. And, how certified practitioners take care to keep your skin protected when performing laser hair removal on you.
1. You Risk the Possibility of Burns and Scarring
The risk of burns and scars is real, but only when you get the procedure from centers that don’t have the mandatory licensing. You may also want to check if the practitioner working on you has the necessary training and certification.
As the expert dermatologists at the Beverly Hills Rejuvenation Center and med spa warn, laser hair removal is not a part of the regular curriculum in school. Doctors must learn how to perform the process while observing the necessary precautions to earn the certification. Also, check for the laws in your state that may or may not require spas to get approval from the authorities to perform laser treatments. Sign up with a laser center only after ensuring their accreditation.
2. The Laser Treatment May Not be Ineffective on You
Lasers work by targeting the hair follicle under the skin leaving the surrounding tissues untouched. As Arshi Ahmed explains on StyleCraze, the procedure is more effective in people that have fair skin with dark hair. The laser energy remains focused on the hair which may not be the case with darker-skinned people who have melanin in their skin also.
At the time of signing you up for the treatment, certified dermatologists choose the right kind of lasers that are best suited to your skin type. For instance, the YAG laser is ideal for users with darker skin tones. But, if you have pale to medium skin, the physician may opt for the IPL laser which is the most commonly used type. The third kind is the Ruby Laser which works best on pale skin.
3. You May Need Multiple Sessions to See Results
As with waxing and shaving, you’ll see smooth skin right away. Although the duration of each laser session may vary according to the area being treated, you’ll need 6 to 8 sittings to see results. The folks on the Self magazine tell you that smaller areas like the underarms or upper lip and chin can be covered in less than a minute. However, larger areas like the back, chest, or legs may take longer. Further, you’ll need to come back for follow-up sessions over 4 to 12 months depending on the hair growth cycle.
At every session, about 20% of the hair is removed, and at the end of the entire laser hair removal treatment, you can expect to have up to 80% of the hair eliminated. Also, keep in mind that your skin can safely absorb only a specific amount of heat at a given time. Your doctor will design the procedure accordingly with gaps of 3 to 8 weeks to give the skin time to recover and the hair to grow back.
4. The Color of Your Skin May Change
Certain skin types may respond differently to the laser hair removal process. For instance, sometimes lasers stimulate the skin to produce more of the melanin pigment. As a result, it may seem like your skin has taken on a tanned look after the session. In contrast, lasers can also cause your skin to lose pigmentation and acquire a lighter tone. In rare cases, you may notice a purple bruise. To prevent this possibility, your dermatologist may test the laser on a small, hidden area to check for changes in skin tone before proceeding with larger sections of the skin.
5. You May Notice Some Aftereffects of the Treatment
Most users experience some aftereffects from the laser treatment that last for a short while. Like, for instance, tingling, warmth, itching, pain, and redness. Within the first few days after a session, you may also see bruising or the formation of scabs. All of these effects typically disappear after a day or two. To minimize the discomfort, your dermatologist will give you a list of dos and don’ts to follow. Applying ice to cool the skin, avoiding sun exposure, and keeping your skin protected from infections are some of the precautions to take.
Getting enviable smooth skin with the help of laser technology is actually a safe way to rid your skin of unwanted hair permanently. With the advancement of science, doctors are now using newer techniques that are much safer than the original lasers that were first invented in the 1960s. All you need to do is choose the center or spa carefully and follow the instructions you receive. Go ahead and flaunt that gorgeous skin.
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