Laser hair removal

This isn't just for the ladies! Thanks to the evolution of men into "Metrosexuals" even guys like to get that unwanted hair taken care of.
With such a huge variety of choices when it comes to skin procedures and hair removal. Laser hair removal has become much more mainstream with quicker, safer and cheaper packages being offered in most spa's and salons. In the longrun it works out to cost less and be a huge time saves - imagine always having to pay salons or go for appointments. Not only that but it's a good solution for eliminating ingrown hairs.

Always make sure to get as much information as possible before getting any cosmetic procedures done of course- but worry not, yours truly is here to help! :)

How lasers work:
The primary principle behind laser hair removal is selective photothermolysis (SPTL). Lasers selectively heat and damage dark areas on the surface (melanin which gives skin and hair pigment) without damaging the rest of your skin causing the hair to fall out.

Hair can be removed from pretty much any part of the body but most common areas include:above and around lips, chin, ear lobe, shoulders, back, underarm, abdomen, buttocks, pubic area, bikini lines, thighs, face, neck, cleavage, chest, arms, legs, hands, and toes.

Laser works best with dark coarse hair. Light skin and dark hair are an ideal combination, but thanks to technology now the new lasers are able to target women/men with darker skin tones too.



Risks:
From friends experience I can say that laser hair removal does have small risks and possible side effects:
-Hyperpigmentation (skin discoloration) may occur.
-Hypertrophic scarring which is raised scars is also a concern.
-(Rare but) there may be burns, blisters, infections and other issues.

With so many businesses offering hair removal services, it's best to ask around for recommendations from friends, family and physicians. Laser hair removal should only be performed by someone very well qualified with experience.


Cost of laser hair removal:
Laser hair removal prices vary from clinic to clinic. Pricing methods include: flat fee rate, price per pulse or price per hour. A good way to save money is by finding places which offer package plans that includes a price cut when purchasing numorous sessions making laser hair removal very affordable. Bear in mind that the actual number of sessions needed to treat an area will not be known for sure beforehand. On average you'll need 3-5 sessions.


Before treatment:
Make sure you share your full medical history. Individuals who have People who have medical issues many not be eligible depending on the problem.

You cannot undergo laser hair removal if you have a tan from sun exposure or sunless tanning products and must wait until the tan completely fades (avoid tanning 6 weeks prior to treatment). Make sure you let the technician know if you've recently tanned to avoid the risk of blistering and discoloration after treatment.

Two to three days before having laser hair removal, you should shave the area to be treated and allow stubble to grow back. Don't wax or pluck the hair, or undergo electrolysis three weeks before treatment.


Actual treatment:During the treatment you'll be handed a pair of goggles to protect your skin from the powerful laser light. A topical gel may be used to numb the pain, you may just feel a stinging sensation like a rubber band snapping and there will be the smell of burned hair in the air.

After the treatment you will be given instruction on how to reduce any pain and should refrain from exercise for several days and stay out of the sun for the first 24 hours so as not to perspire and cause increased irritation..

You should continue to avoid direct sun exposure and tanning booths for several weeks after treatment. Be careful when touching the treated areas: don't wax or pluck hairs, pick at the skin, or rub or scrub it. A gentle washing with soap and water is perfectly fine.

On average, people need between three and five sessions to really see results, meaning about 80% hair reduction in the area treated.