Laser Hair Removal- Aesthetic Medicine/ Cosmetology, Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

What is laser hair removal?

It is a medical procedure to remove unwanted hair by using a focused beam of light which is known as a laser.

Laser hair removal is  generally done by a dermatologist i.e. a doctor who has specialized in skin diseases.

Before the procedure:

The patients are told to avoid any exposure to sun light at least six weeks before the procedure. Patient is also asked to not to use any hair removing products or shaving. Use of blood thinning medications should also be avoided.

The procedure:

As a first step, the hair is trimmed to a few millimeters above the skin surface. Depending on the skin color as well as the color, location, and thickness of the hair, the laser equipment is adjusted. Patient is given glasses for eye protection. Moreover, either a cold gel or special cooling device is used to protect the outer layer of the skin. It also helps the laser to penetrate through the skin. After initial light treatment, the treatment area is observed for any side effects. If everything is fine, the procedure continues.

During the procedure, a laser releases a light which gets absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. This light energy gets converted to heat and this heat damages the hair follicles. Hair follicles are tube-shaped sacs within the skin and they produce hairs. By damaging the hair follicles, the hair growth is prevented as well as delayed.

After the procedure:

During the first few hours after the procedure is finished, there may be redness and swelling in the treatment area. Patient may use either cold water or ice packs or anti-inflammatory creams to relieve any pain.

Does the hair grow back after the procedure?

Multiple laser treatments are required for hair removal. Patient may go for another cycle of the laser treatment after six weeks. He/She has to continue this till the hair stops growing.

References:

• https://www.webmd.com/beauty/laser-hair-removal#1
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-hair-removal/about/pac-20394555

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