Questions About Laser Hair Removal
Altoona, State College, Johnstown and DuBois, Pennsylvania
How long has laser hair removal been around?
Lasers in some form have been used for hair removal since the late 1960’s, although it really wasn’t until the mid-1990’s that intense-pulsed light (IPL) and laser systems became more effective for long-term hair reduction. Some of the earlier lasers were only safe to use on patients with light skin and dark hair. In addition, these lasers weren’t very effective overall. Today we have laser devices that can safely and effectively treat unwanted hair on all skin types, regardless of pigment.
How does the laser remove hair?
The laser emits a beam of light that is attracted to the pigment (or melanin) in the hair follicle. For a hair follicle to be affected by the laser, it must be in an actively growing phase. Only about 15 to 30% of your hair follicles are active at any one time. Therefore, you will need multiple treatments (usually 4-6) to get the permanent hair reduction you desire. The laser beam is directed at and absorbed by the active hair follicles, disabling their growth and resulting in safe and effective hair reduction.
What is the advantage of using a laser?
Lasers are precise instruments that can be adjusted to the exact parameters that will specifically disable the hair follicle. The laser uses a wide beam that treats many hairs at once, unlike other systems such as electrolysis which only treat hair-by-hair. As a result, large areas such as your legs, arms, or back can be treated in a relatively short period of time. You will see results that last far longer than tweezing, waxing, shaving, chemical depilation, or other temporary methods.
What does the laser treatment feel like?
The laser pulses do have a prickly, stinging sensation to them. Some people have likened the pulses to a rubber band slap against the skin. We utilize lasers that have a chilled tip so it keeps the skin cool, thereby helping offset some of the discomfort. Most of our clients are able to tolerate the treatment without any difficulty and I have had multiple treatments and fared just fine. However, since every person’s level of sensitivity is different, we will always do a small test area prior to treatment so you can determine whether or not to undergo your first laser hair removal treatment.
What happens to the skin after laser treatment?
Reddening and some minor swelling of the skin are the expected local reactions. They usually subside within a few minutes to a few hours and return to normal. Since the laser is not invasive in any way, no bandages are necessary. You are able to re-apply your make-up, return to work, and continue with your normal daily activities immediately following treatment.
If you are interested in laser hair removal in the Central Pennsylvania area, please contact our Pennsylvania plastic surgeons today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Robert Louton. Blair Plastic Surgery has offices in Altoona and State College, Pennsylvania.
