If you are sick and tired of shaving away your unwanted body hair, laser hair reduction is a good option for you. The procedure uses lasers to destroy the hair follicle making it nearly impossible to grow hair again. Since some pale, weak hair may grow back, the procedure is not called permanent hair removal but is it the next best thing.
How Does It Work?
Your hair grows in specific stages. Each hair is in a different stage at any given time. There is the dormant cycle, the growth cycle, and the falling-out cycle. The laser is only effective when the hair is actively growing. This is why it takes two to six treatments about four to six weeks apart to remove all the hair.
During the growth cycle, the follicle is strong and full of pigment. The laser light targets this pigment and is absorbed as heat, which destroys the follicle. Until recently, the lasers used for hair reduction were only suitable for people with lighter skin and darker hair. Today, there are lasers suitable for every skin and hair color except white or light blond hair. This is because there is not enough pigment in the follicle to be effective.
Laser hair reduction is suitable for just about anywhere on your body except around your eyes. The most common places are:
- Underarms and arms
- Bikini line
- Chin and upper lip
- Legs
- Back and chest
How to Prepare
When you consult with our professionals, you will learn how to prepare for the treatment. Some medications make the skin extra sensitive to lasers, so our doctor needs to know what you take including herbal remedies and dietary supplements. The area you are having treated should not be exposed to direct sunlight for a few weeks before the treatment. After the treatment, you will need to protect the treated area from the sun for two weeks.
You should not wax or have electrolysis for at least a month before your appointment date because these methods destroy the follicle and the laser needs the follicle to work. You can shave because shaving does not touch the follicle. Don’t be tempted to lose the razor just yet because it takes several treatments to achieve the smooth skin you want and you can shave between treatments.
Is There a Good Time to Start?
The best time to start your laser hair reduction treatments is during cooler weather when you would naturally wear more clothing and not be exposed to the sun. Since it could take up to six treatments, it may take a few months to achieve the desired results.
Learn more about how laser hair reduction can improve your lifestyle by visiting Mia Bella Donna Medpsa in Overland Park. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
