Have you decided to ditch the razor and tweezer and try laser hair removal for a hair free life. Laser hair removal is a convenient, long-lasting method for getting rid of unwanted hair. If you are curious to find out how to tell if you’re a good candidate for laser hair removal, we offer some tips below.
How laser hair removal works
Laser hair removal uses laser technology to remove unwanted hair on the face and body. The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is directed at the melanin (pigment ), which is located at the base of the hair follicle. The laser light is converted into heat and destroys the hair growth center, preventing the regrowth of hair. The hair falls out about 1-2 weeks after treatment.
Laser hair removal previously only worked on those with dark hair and light skin, as the laser light could easily focus on the hair. Treating dark skin was more challenging, because dark skin contains more melanin, and this made it prone to burns using early laser technology. Fortunately, technology has advanced a lot since then, and laser hair removal for dark skin is now possible.
Individuals with darker skin tones considering laser hair removal should ensure that they consult with a physician that has experience treating dark skin, and therefore uses the appropriate laser technology. It’s also a good idea to get a test spot treated first.
3 signs you are a good candidate for laser hair removal
- You are interested in long-term hair removal. Traditional hair removal methods such as shaving and plucking are time consuming and provide only short-term results. So if you are looking for a long-lasting alternative, you may be a good candidate for laser hair removal. After the recommended number of treatments, 6-8 on average, patients will notice a significant reduction in hair. Sessions are spaced about 6 weeks apart. Laser hair removal gets rid of approximately 80-90% of hair. The hair does not generally grow back, but if it does, touch-up sessions are recommended.
- You are aware that multiple laser sessions are required. Multiple sessions are needed for laser hair removal because hair goes through multiple phases. Hair grows in cycles – anagen (growth) catagen (transition) and telogen (resting), and it can only absorb enough heat to destroy the hair growth center when it is in the growth phase. Since hair grows at different rates, it will take several treatments to catch all the hairs in their growth stage.
- You have a large treatment area. Laser hair removal is considered more effective for larger treatment areas such as the legs, underarms, and back. Since the procedure is so fast, it is a great option for large areas of the body.
Candidates for laser hair removal should also have realistic expectations about what the procedure can do. There are several factors that can impact the effectiveness of laser hair removal including the amount of hair that needs to be removed, and the location of the hair, so patients should discuss these factors with their provider prior to treatment.
Both men and women have achieved very good results with laser hair removal. While the procedure can be done almost anywhere on the body, men typically have laser hair removal performed on their chest and back, while the bikini area, legs, and underarms are favorite areas for women.
Is laser hair removal painful?
This is the number one question people contemplating laser hair removal generally want answered. While there is some discomfort during the procedure, the technology is now so advanced that most patients report feeling little or no pain. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s pain threshold is different.
Are you considering laser hair removal? If yes, be sure to choose an experienced provider that understands how to customize treatments based on your specific hair color and skin type.
If you are in the Guilford, CT area, contact The Langdon Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery to find out if you would be a good candidate.
You can reach them at www.langdoncenter.com, or by calling (203) 717-9592.