Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated light energy to remove unwanted hair from the body. This procedure is available in Virginia Beach. This treatment is effective, long-lasting and relatively painless compared to other hair removal methods. Understanding how the procedure targets hair follicles through science can help demystify the process and help you make an informed decision before undergoing the treatment.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal targets hair follicles by emitting a beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. This light energy is converted into heat, which damages the hair follicle and inhibits future hair growth. The laser beam is highly concentrated and selectively targets the darker pigment of the hair follicle, leaving the surrounding skin and tissue unharmed. Target areas often include unwanted hair from the face, neck, chest, back, underarms, bikini area, thighs, legs and more.
The effectiveness of laser hair removal is based on the contrast between the hair and skin color. The greater the contrast, the more effective the treatment. This is because the laser energy is absorbed by the dark pigment or melanin in the hair follicle, so if there is less contrast between the hair and skin color, the laser energy may be absorbed by the skin rather than the hair, which can cause burns or other complications. For this reason, laser hair removal tends to work best on light skin with dark hair follicles—although new advances in laser hair removal technology have helped patients with other hair and skin types see great results, too.
Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
Before undergoing laser hair removal, it is important to prepare the skin and hair for the treatment. The hair should be shaved to ensure the area is clean. It is important to shave prior to each laser hair removal treatment so that there is less hair above the skin to burn—and less risk of your skin getting burned. The technician will not be able to remove any strands that are visible above the skin. The skin should also be free of any lotions, creams, or other products. Sun exposure or tanning should be avoided for several weeks before the treatment, as this can affect the contrast between the hair and skin color.
During the Laser Hair Removal Treatment
During the laser hair removal treatment, the patient will be given protective eyewear to shield their eyes from the laser light. The laser handpiece will then be placed on the skin and a series of short pulses of light will be emitted. The patient may feel a slight discomfort or a warming sensation during the treatment, but this is generally well-tolerated. The duration of the treatment depends on the size of the area being treated, but most treatments take between 30 minutes to an hour. After the treatment, the patient may experience some redness or swelling in the treated area, but this typically subsides within a few hours.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal offers several benefits over other hair removal methods, including:
- Long-lasting results: Unlike shaving or waxing, laser hair removal provides long-lasting results. Most patients require between four to six treatments spaced approximately four to six weeks apart to achieve optimal results and these results can last for several months to years. Possible touch-up appointments may be necessary afterward.
- Precision: Laser hair removal targets hair follicles selectively, leaving the surrounding skin and tissue unharmed. This precision reduces the risk of burns, cuts or other complications associated with other hair removal methods.
- Convenience: Laser hair removal is a convenient option for those looking to remove unwanted hair from larger areas of the body, such as the legs or back. The treatment is quick and relatively painless compared to other methods.
- Improved skin texture: Laser hair removal can improve the texture of the skin by reducing the appearance of ingrown hairs or bumps caused by other hair removal methods.
Laser hair removal is a safe, effective and convenient option for those looking to remove unwanted hair from the body. By selectively targeting hair follicles with concentrated light energy, laser hair removal inhibits future hair growth and provides long-lasting results. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner for the treatment to ensure optimal results and minimize. To schedule an appointment for laser hair removal in Virginia Beach, contact the Spa and Laser Center at (757) 965-7444.
