Laser hair removal is a popular and increasingly accessible form of permanent hair removal. If you're considering this procedure, it's important to understand the types of laser hair removal available, the benefits it offers, and any associated risks. From the type of laser used to the cost of treatments, this guide covers everything you need to know about laser hair removal and will help you make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for you. With the help of modern technology, laser hair removal can help you achieve smoother skin and long-term results with little to no pain. So read on to learn more about this popular treatment and find out if it's the right choice for you.
Types of Laser Hair Removal
There are three types of laser hair removal:
- Non-surgical epidermal photothermolysis (EPTL) - Surgical epidermal photothermolysis (EPTL). EPTL is the most common type of laser hair removal and is non-surgical. It works by targeting the melanin (pigment) in each hair follicle for selective destruction. It is effective on all skin types, but is most efficient on darker skin types.
- Non-surgical intradermal photothermolysis (PDTL) - PDTL is also non-surgical, but targets the dermis layer of the skin, where hair grows from. This method is particularly useful for people with blond or red hair, as the laser targets the colour of the hair rather than the melanin. It treats hair as short as 0.5 mm, whereas EPTL can only treat hair that is between 1.5 mm and 4 mm.
- Surgical laser hair removal is a procedure that is performed in a clinic by a trained professional. It uses a higher laser energy than the non-surgical methods to target the hair follicles directly. It can only be used on skin types that can tolerate a surgical procedure.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal has many benefits, including a reduction in the number of ingrown hairs, a decrease in the appearance of redness and irritation, and a reduction in the need for other hair removal methods.
- Fewer ingrown hairs: As electrolysis relies on killing individual hairs with a very small needle, laser hair removal can be used to treat large areas without causing damage to the surrounding skin. As a result, it is less likely to cause ingrown hairs.
- Decreased redness and irritation: Many people experience redness and irritation as a result of shaving or using other types of hair removal methods. Laser hair removal can reduce these symptoms and make your skin look smoother and healthier.
- Fewer hair removal methods: While laser hair removal won't remove hair from your body entirely, it does make it easier to maintain a hair-free look. It can be used on areas such as the legs, back, arms, underarms, and bikini line.
Risks and Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is generally safe and effective, but it does come with some risks and side effects.
- Temporary redness and swelling: Some people may experience redness, swelling, or darkening of the treated skin after treatment. This is normal, and most people see these side effects disappear within 48 hours.
- Hypo- or hyperpigmentation: Very rarely, some people could develop hypo- or hyperpigmentation, which is when the skin loses or gains pigmentation. This is more likely to occur in people with darker skin types.
- Scarring: According to the FDA, laser hair removal is not recommended for people with darker skin types due to an increased risk of scarring.
- Permanent hair removal: Unfortunately, laser hair removal doesn't guarantee permanent hair removal. It disrupts the hair follicle's growth cycle and can slow hair growth, but it doesn't stop it altogether. The length of time it takes for treated hairs to grow back again varies.
Laser Hair Removal for Different Skin Types
For best results, you should seek out a dermatologist with experience in laser hair removal for darker skin types. This is particularly important if you have a darker skin tone and want to undergo laser hair removal. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of different laser treatments with your dermatologist before making a decision. If you have a darker skin type, you may be advised against surgical laser hair removal and advised to undergo non-surgical treatments that target the melanin in each hair follicle. If you have fairer skin, you may be advised to undergo surgical laser hair removal, which targets the hair follicles directly.
Aftercare for Laser Hair Removal
After your laser hair removal treatment, you may notice temporary redness, swelling, and darkening of the treated skin. These side effects should subside within 48 hours, but they could last longer depending on the strength of the laser used during your treatment. For optimal results, you should continue to exfoliate regularly and moisturize your skin in the days following your treatment. You may also notice a few hairs falling out after your laser hair removal treatment, especially if you have a darker skin type. This is normal, and there's no need to panic. The number of hairs that fall out after treatment will depend on the strength of the laser used during your treatment.