Laser hair removaL

Laser hair removal performed by a licensed practitioner with an approved laser is safe and has a low risk of lasting side effects.

How does laser work....
Laser hair removal works by sending a low-energy beam into the skin. The beam is absorbed by darker-pigmented areas, such as hair follicles. The laser energy is converted to heat, destroying the hair root so it no longer grows. The treatment works best on people with lighter skin and darker hair. More recently, longer-wavelength lasers that work better on darker skin have been developed. At least three treatments are usually required to remove most of the hair in the treated area, and more may be needed for darker skin.

Is Laser painless???
According to the FDA, laser treatments cannot claim to be painless. For most people, the laser treatment produces an irritating or painful feeling similar to the snap of a rubber band against the skin or a series of pricks with a warm needle. (Laser hair removal for people with darker skin may be more difficult and more painful.) The treated area will probably swell, turn red, or become slightly discolored for one to three days. With proper treatment, blistering shouldn't occur. Permanent scarring or discoloration is rare. For people with herpes, laser treatment can trigger an outbreak, so an antiviral medication may be given beforehand. Also, if you have a history of abnormal scarring, you may want to mention it to the practitioner.

Any side effects?
The common short-term side effects (swelling and redness) are a result of the laser's heat. Lasers are equipped with skin-cooling devices, but if you find that your skin is especially sensitive, an anesthetic cream can be applied before treatment. A cool-pack can also be used after treatments to reduce pain. The practitioner should conduct a test on a small area to see how your skin reacts to treatment 48 hours before beginning a full treatment.

Long-term, negative side effects of laser hair removal are rare. If you're still wary, you might want to speak with a health care provider about your specific circumstances and try a small area first to see how your skin reacts.