After years of waxing or paying for expensive razor blades to remove unwanted body hair, there comes a time when enough is enough. One effective solution is laser hair removal, a cosmetic procedure introduced over 20 years ago.
While technology has improved over the past two decades, some people remain stronger candidates for laser hair removal than others. Find out if this procedure is right for you.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
At the Vein Centers of Connecticut, our laser hair removal systems include the GentleYAG® and GentleLASE® by Candela, featuring a patented skin-cooling device for greater comfort, safety and results.
The procedure starts by passing a beam of laser light over the desired area for removal. The light is converted to heat, which targets the pigment in your hair. It’s then absorbed by the cells being targeted, breaking down the hair follicle below the skin without causing damage on the surface.
This process slows down the process of hair growth by disabling the hair follicle, ultimately preventing it from growing back. Results are not immediate; most patients require four to six treatments spaced out, based on the hair growth cycle. In between sessions, patients should notice a gradual thinning of the hair in the area being targeted.
Laser hair removal typically leads to an 80 percent reduction in growth. Patients may need to schedule periodic follow-up procedures to get rid of any new hairs.
Who’s an Ideal Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
The procedure targets the melanin in your hair, so individuals with darker hair tend to see stronger, more long-term results. Other factors include:
- Hair Type: Laser light dissolves thicker, coarser hair better than lighter, finer hair.
- Skin Tone: To be fully effective, the laser needs a strong contrast between the skin and hair. Individuals with darker skin tones or who tan frequently may not get the results they want and have increased risks for discoloration or scarring, as the laser may target the skin’s natural pigment.
- Area: Candidates tend to see more visible results over larger areas – for instance, the legs and arms, underarms or back. The bikini, chin and upper lip are also considered safe areas for hair removal but the procedure should not be done around the eyes.
- Follow-up Care: After the procedure, reduce sun exposure and stop all other hair removal methods.
- Expectations: The best results require multiple procedures and occasional upkeep.
- Goals: Ideal candidates are looking for a longer-lasting alternative to shaving, waxing or plucking hairs.
Who’s Not an Ideal Candidate?
Individuals may not benefit from laser hair removal or should avoid the procedure if they:
- Routinely tan or spend significant time in the sun, as these factors make the skin more heat-sensitive and increase risks for hyper-pigmentation, burns and scarring
- Want to remove hair between the eyebrows or surrounding the eye area
- Are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or nursing
- Have a history of melanoma, raised moles or other potentially malignant growths
- Currently have open lesions, sores or active infections
- Live with the herpes virus or cold sores
- Have a history of keloid scar formation
- Are known to break out in hives
- Live with autoimmune diseases like lupus or scleroderma
- Experience wound healing and blood clotting issues
- Have undergone an oral acne treatment within the last year, including using Accutane or an antibiotic like tetracycline
- Have tattoos or permanent makeup
If you sound like a good candidate for laser hair removal, schedule a consultation with the Vein Centers of Connecticut today!