Laser hair removal: FAQs (2024)

FAQs

What are the do's and don'ts of laser hair removal? ›

It does not eliminate hair, it REDUCES hair

A common misconception is that laser hair removal is a permanent solution, but the reality is that its a semi-permanent solution. You can expect up to a 90% reduction in hair growth and thickness, to the point where you won't need to shave as much.

Other rare side effects include graying of treated hair or excessive hair growth around treated areas, particularly on darker skin. Laser hair removal isn't recommended for eyelids, eyebrows or surrounding areas, due to the possibility of severe eye injury.

Moisturise: Keep your skin hydrated with a high-quality, fragrance-free moisturiser. This makes it easier for the shedding hair to push through the skin. Avoid hair removal methods: Resist the temptation to use tweezers, wax, or other hair removal methods on the treated area.

It's recommended to wait at least 6-8 hours after a laser hair removal session before taking a shower; which should be cold or very mild. This gives the skin time to cool down and for any redness or swelling to subside. At Skin Perfection; London's Top Laser Hair Removal Clinic; we recommend you to avoid hot showers.

Who Should Avoid Laser Hair Removal. People who are taking certain medications, such as acne treatments, should avoid laser hair removal. It can also be a bad fit for people with certain skin conditions, like a history of skin cancer or keloid scars. Women who are pregnant or nursing should also put off hair removal.

Regret usually stems from choosing the wrong provider. While laser hair removal itself is rarely regrettable, what can lead to regret is choosing the wrong provider. A cheap, inexperienced clinic may use outdated equipment or incorrect techniques, leading to less effective treatment or even unwanted side-effects.

Just like waxing, laser is also very safe to remove the unwanted pubic hair. Because the laser doesn't penetrate deeper than your hair follicles it has no risks when it comes to the private parts. The treatment is usually performed at every 5-6 weekly intervals, to capture your hair at their specific growing stage.

If treatment is stopped before all of the hair follicles have been destroyed, some may continue to grow. It is important to complete the recommended treatment plan to achieve the best results. Sometimes, the patient sees hairs are thicker and darker after the treatment when they have original light and fair hair.

What are the cons of laser treatment? ›

Some patients experience infection, bruising, or bleeding, or even develop blood clots. You may experience tenderness after the procedure, or a burning, prickling sensation. Sometimes, burns occur during this procedure, and sometimes laser treatment can result in a damaged nerve or inflamed veins.

Laser hair removal can be dangerous in inexperienced hands. Burns, permanent changes to your skin color, and scars can occur. You can greatly reduce the risk of possible side effects by having your treatment performed by a medical doctor who is extremely skilled in using lasers and has in-depth knowledge of the skin.

Pulling out loose hair after a laser hair removal session is not recommended. It disrupts the hair growth cycle; when hairs are loose it means the hair is in its cycle of removal. If it's removed before it dies on its own, it could stimulate hair to grow again.

The black dots that appear after laser hair removal are called “post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.” They occur when the laser treatment causes damage to the hair follicle and surrounding skin. This results in an increased production of melanin, which is the pigment that gives colour to the skin.

Immediately after the procedure the treated area might appear red and swollen. This is a normal response and usually subsides within a few hours. 7-14 days after the procedure the hairs will begin to fall out. Now, this doesn't mean the hair won't ever return.

Avoid make-up on the treated area for at least 48 hours. Avoid the application of perfumed products or bleaching creams for 48 hours. Avoid scratching the treatment area if blistering or crusting occurs, as this can cause scarring. Avoid waxing, tweezing and threading for the complete duration of the treatment course.

Reduce efficacy: Hair above the skin absorbs laser energy, diverting it from the follicles, leading to diminished results. Cause skin irritation: Unshaved hair can lead to post-laser redness, inflammation, and swelling.

It is generally recommended to wait at least three or four days after laser hair removal treatment before shaving the treated area. This allows time for the skin to recover and reduces the risk of irritation. Some sources suggest waiting until shedding occurs, which typically happens a few days after treatment.