This is one of the most common cosmetic procedures involving the removal of unwanted hair through a concentrated light. The light targets the hair follicles and damages those hair follicles, inhibiting further growth. Unlike the more traditional means of removing hair, for instance, shaving, waxing, or plucking, this procedure is relatively permanent.


Advantages Of Laser Hair Removal

There are plenty of advantages associated with laser hair removal. Associated benefits intuitively incorporate numerous upsides, the most liked one perhaps being the long-lasting results. To that end, once a person goes to the minimum number of sessions as advised, one will be able to count on noticing a noticeable reduction in growth of the same. That is to say, a person will go for touch-ups in much fewer numbers than if other methods are considered.


  • Another advantage is that it is very accurate, as the laser targets only the dark, coarse hair and leaves the surrounding skin undamaged. This makes it a routine process, even for small sensitive areas such as the upper lip, chin, and bikini area. 
  • Another is that it is relatively fast to undergo. Small areas may take just a few minutes. The larger areas, like the back or leg, will take about one hour to one and a half hours for the entire process.
  • This minimizes the probability of contracting ingrown hair in laser hair removal treatment.
  • As the laser destroys the hair follicle, a person will be at a lesser risk and receive smoother skin.


How Does The Process Of Laser Hair Removal Work?

A concentrated light beam is emitted; this beam of light is absorbed by the pigment inside the hair itself, meaning the melanin. It is then converted into heat; where this particular heat damages the hair follicles which are responsible for producing hairs, once destroyed, these hair follicles inhibit new growth or, in another case, delay the continued growth of new hair.

Generally, more than one session is required for ideal results. This is so because the hair grows in cycles, and the laser is most effective on the hair during the growth phase. Of course, not all hair will be in the growth phase at the same time, so to target all of the hair in a particular place, several treatments will need to be undertaken.


Ideal Candidates For Laser Hair Removal

The reasonable thing behind this, of course, is that this method works best for individuals in whom there is a big difference between light skin and dark hair. Nonetheless, the extension of laser technology has turned out to be efficient for a variety of types of skin and the color of hair.

A professional will have to discuss with you whether or not you will make a suitable candidate—conversations of such nature in which your skin chemistry and type, the color of your hair, your case history, and a list of other factors will be checked. Also, some people's reactions will not be so good, especially those with gray or blonde and red heads, as melanin is targeted by the light.


Preparing For Laser Hair Removal

What it means, though, is preparation toward the success of laser hair removal. After the six weeks, keep away from the sun. Skin that is more exposed to the sun will make the procedure less effective, with a risk of skin irritation or burns.

Do not pluck, wax, or do electrolysis for at least six weeks before treatment. These methods tend to interfere with the hair follicle, hence not serving the purpose of the laser. Whereas, shaving is allowed, as it serves to maintain the hair shaft and follicle, which will thus be targeted by the laser.

Clean the area of treatment well on the day of your appointment and don't apply lotions, creams, or makeup. Wear loose clothing that doesn't affect the area after performing the procedure.


What To Expect During The Procedure?

In that session, the technician will ask one to shave the hair a few millimeters above the skin surface to prepare it for the treatment. This allows proper targeting of the hair follicles by the laser. The laser hair removal equipment will be adjusted for the color, thickness, and location of the hair, in turn, the skin color.

Exposure to the damaging light of the laser will be low, and you won't be able to see it because, like the technician, you'll be wearing some kind of goggles, visor, or glasses that protect your eyes. The doctor will have you use a cooling gel or pour a device about where you will be treated to reduce the heat that you could feel from your skin further to let the laser pass through the skin more easily. Next, the laser was applied to the spot to be treated and pulsed light.

Sensation during the treatment varies greatly. It has been described as the snapping of a rubber band against the skin but it could also cause virtually no discomfort at all. Most lasers have some type of cooling system to help control pain.



Read More: What Are the 5 Ways to Regrow Your Hair


Aftercare

Treatment can lead to some side effects in the patient, such as redness and swelling, which are similar to mild sunburn. Such effects are temporary and pass in the span of a few hours to a few days. Ice packs can be used over the treated area that may show discomfort or swelling to reduce these irritating effects.

Later, one should avoid taking a sun bath and apply the sunscreen of broad-spectrum texture over the treated skin for the following weeks. This will help in reducing skin damage and irritation, and in turn, help in promotion of better treatment outcomes.


Possible Side Effects

Gentle, expected side effects of laser hair removal treatment usually include:


Redness and Swelling

Very common and this usually goes down within hours up to a few days.


Discomfort

Some may suffer from mild pain or discomfort in the period during and after the procedure, which feels like a sunburn.


Skin Colour Changes

The skin might darken or lighten, under the treatment. Usually, this change is temporary. Those with darker skin colors are at a greater risk.


Blistering and Scarring

Blistering and scarring is possible at certain areas. Such effects can be minimized by following the required guidelines before and after treatment. Technicians administering such treatments should be authorized, too.

Make sure to contact either your technician or your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you notice serious or long-term side effects.


Laser Hair Removal Cost

Average costs for laser hair removal run between pkr 5,000 and pkr 20,000 for each treatment session. The factors on which the cost depends include the size of the treated area, the number of sessions, and the location of the practicing clinic. Larger areas on the body—like the back or legs—will generally cost more than smaller areas, such as the upper lip or underarms.

Other clinics have used the sensory enhancement tech to incorporate time-spanning discounts on their offered packages that make it more amenable to being affordable over time. Some clinics also offer financing to help manage the cost.


Conclusion

Laser hair removal is safe and effective for the reduction of unwanted hair. Nearly all treatments are associated with long-term outcomes imparting less discomfort and downtime while following pre- and post-treatment guidelines can get you the maximum results in smooth, hair-free skin.

Book a consultation with a trained professional to discuss your options, and you will be able to map out a course of treatment designed for you. As mentioned earlier, with the right care and attention, laser hair treatment can provide you with a potential long-term defense against undesirable hair. Be it on the upper lip or the back, a small area or a large area, the desired results can be achieved through hair laser removal.


Please book an appointment with the best Dermatologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.