Picture this: You’re thinking of laser hair removal and decided to shave your legs. You buy a woman’s razor, all excited to finally caress silky, smooth skin. When it’s time to shower, you carefully shave your legs and arms, watching the tiny hair wash away. Something is not right. Your legs don’t feel the way you expected them to. You see red bumps all over your skin. A couple of days later, hair starts to appear, and you even spot a couple of ingrown ones.
We suggest putting your furry foot down and getting rid of this pesky problem once and for all! The solution – is laser hair removal.
You have heard that the procedure is painful, so you are wondering whether you should go for it. Well, there are plenty of myths surrounding laser hair removal, and this happens to be one of them. Others include: It doesn’t work on certain skin tones, it damages the skin, and it makes your hair grow thicker.
ALL LIES!
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal involves the removal of pigmented hairs through the process of selective photothermolysis. A board-certified dermatologist uses a special device that emits a concentrated light. This energy is absorbed by melanin in the hair follicles. The energy then converts to heat and damages the hair follicles, inhibiting their growth. Since the effectiveness of the procedure depends on melanin, some people need fewer sessions.
The cost of laser hair removal might seem a bit much at first, but it usually depends on a person’s hair growth. However, in the long run, the procedure proves to be cost-effective because it saves you from the ongoing expenses of using depilatory creams, shaving, and waxing.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Long-lasting Results
Laser hair removal involves several sittings that depend on your hair’s thickness. Some people get hair-free after three to four sessions, while others experience significant hair reduction. In both cases, you don’t need to spend any more time on maintenance.
Speedy Results
Compared to waxing and shaving, laser hair removal is quite efficient. It targets large areas quickly. For example, the legs can be treated in an hour, and then the upper lips in just a few minutes.
Precision
Laser hair removal is a very precise treatment that targets dark, coarse hair, without damaging the surrounding skin. This is beneficial for people with sensitive skin who want to remove hair from small areas such as the bikini line.
Prevents Ingrown Hair
When hair is removed or cut at an odd angle, it becomes trapped beneath the skin’s surface as it regrows. Ingrown hair is usually a result of waxing. If your razor has a dull edge, it will drag against your skin and, instead of cutting hair, will pull on it. In laser hair removal, hair follicles are targeted directly, uprooting them and preventing regrowth.
Minimal Discomfort
Every person has a different pain threshold. If you have ever gotten a tattoo, you won’t feel any pain getting your hair lasered. Even if you haven’t had this experience, imagine a slight pinch or a snap of a rubber band. That’s it – that’s what you will feel. The discomfort is short-lived, and you can quickly get back to your routine.
Improved Skin Quality
Laser hair removal doesn’t just help you get rid of hair but also improves your skin quality. It reduces issues such as irritation and redness associated with shaving. It also prevents strawberry legs and makes skin smooth to the touch.
Boosts Self-Confidence
Laser hair removal leads to a more positive self-image. It makes you feel more attractive, whether you are a male or a female. This is why many people shave before going on a date.
Laser Hair Removal After-Care
Stay Out of the Sun
After a session, your skin becomes vulnerable to external factors for a while, which is why you need to take some precautions when heading out. Apply SPF30 sunscreen, and wear protective clothing and a long-brim hat to prevent hyperpigmentation and sunburns.
Avoid Taking a Hot Shower
The first 48 hours after your laser hair removal are crucial. Avoid washing your arms or legs with hot water, as it can irritate your skin. Opt for lukewarm water to minimize inflammation.
No More Tanning Beds
Tanning beds mimic the intensity of sunlight, which we have already established is harmful after laser hair removal. They expose your skin to harmful UV rays and lead to adverse effects such as burns.
Don’t Scratch or Pick
You will experience minor irritation or redness after the treatment. You might get the urge to scratch your skin, but DON’T! Since the skin is sensitive, rubbing it can lead to scarring and infection.
Don’t Pluck
It’s possible that you might need multiple sessions to get rid of your hair completely. In between these sessions, if you see a rogue hair, do not pluck it… unless the dermatologist has recommended it.
The primary goal of laser hair removal is to target the hair follicles. Since laser targets melanin, shaving removes the visible hair follicles. As a result, the equipment is not able to target melanin, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.
One thing to remember about laser hair removal is that consistency is key. To yield the best results, you need to keep all your appointments, which are usually a week or two apart. Refrain from using any kind of skincare product, as this might disrupt the cycle and cancel all the progress you have made so far.
Laser hair removal has no side effects. Although rare, it might cause burns or blisters. This is more likely if you have sensitive skin or the dermatologist uses incorrect settings.
The quality of laser hair removal varies from clinic to clinic, the experience of the dermatologist, and the equipment used. This is why it is essential to choose a licensed and reputable provider with a satisfied list of clients. Asking for recommendations, reading reviews, and scheduling consultations help you make an informed decision.
Get your laser hair treatment from Suncoast Skin Solutions. Their board-certified specialists provide quality treatment using state-of-the-art equipment. For more information about their services, visit their website or call 844-SUNDERM
SunCoast Skin Solutions Dermatology offices are located in Tampa / Hillsborough, St. Pete / Pinellas County, Brandon, Lutz, Winter Haven, Largo, Hudson, Leesburg, Jupiter, Lecanto, Riverview, Brooksville, Clearwater, Ocala, Palm Harbor, Daytona Beach, Sarasota, Punta Gorda, Seminole, (Inverness, Port Charlette, Port Saint Lucie coming soon), Florida. Contact us at 1-844-786-3376 or click here.
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