Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

In this article, you will learn about laser hair removal and whether or not it is effective. Laser hair removal is the usage of Selective Photothermolysis (SPTL) to target and heat dark material on the body. The dark matter has melanin, produced by the body, on it. The laser targets the melanin to heat the material without affecting the skin.

Since only black and brown hair contain melanin, laser hair removal can only be performed on them. Blonde and red hair still cannot undergo laser hair removal. People with black hair and fair skin are the best candidates for laser hair removal because of the low level of melanin on the skin, which allows the laser to target the hair only.

Laser hair removal is not actually permanent and many people have experienced complete regrowth of hair in the targeted areas. The treatment is performed through a number of sessions 6‐8 week apart. Most patients achieve around 85% of hair reduction after six successful sessions.

In order for the laser hair removal to be lasting, maintenance sessions are recommended on a regular basis. Although this depends on the patient concerned, annual revisits and treatments are optimal to reduce the possibility of complete hair regrowth.

Before starting a session, most patients undergo a complete assessment to determine whether laser hair removal is good for them. The information usually requested or assessed is skin type, hair color, thickness of hair, and medical history. Patients are advised to stay away from tanning, shaving, and waxing at least a week prior to the laser hair removal. Tanning the skin can be dangerous since the laser will target melanin. When the skin gets tanned, melanin is produced by the skin, which then turns the skin darker.

The procedure is described as significantly less painful than waxing by most patients. Keep in mind that the discomfort level will depend on sensitivity and pain tolerance. Many patients request numbing cream to be applied before the procedure and this is provided by the laser hair removal center. After the treatment, ointment is applied to the targeted area on a regular basis until the healing is complete. We have gone over laser hair removal and its effectiveness. Laser hair removal is great but considering the possibility of complete hair regrowth and the cost associated with the treatment, shaving is still preferred.

NW Anti Aging Wellness Center effectively integrates Western and Chinese medicine in an extraordinary approach to primary health care. We have a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner as our medical director working in collaboration with a professional certified team of Massage Therapists, Estheticians and a Bio-Identical-Menopause Specialist, helping people focus on weight loss and weight management.