For the past few years, laser hair removal has established itself as a better alternative to the annoying practices like tweezing, shaving and waxing. However, considering that this is a long term commitment, it’s not a decision that should be taken lightly. You should keep the following 7 things in mind before going for laser hair removal.
Ensure you shave but don’t wax before the first appointment
Within the few weeks leading up to your first visit, halt all types of hair removal that require the root of the hair to be pulled out. These include epilating, waxing and tweezing. Switch instead to shaving with razors say about five weeks before the first visit. Some doctors will require that you allow for three days’ worth of stubble so that the equipment can pick on the hairs, while others will require you shave just before treatment. Consult with the doctor to see how much prep work you should do.
Not all lasers are created equal
Despite the common understanding that laser hair removal is the same no matter the hospital, you have to realize that there are different laser technologies. There are at least five major ones, all of which come with varied pros and cons. And whatever works for one person may not work for you due to differences in skin and hair type.
Are you a good candidate for laser hair removal?
Thanks to the advancement of technology, more and more people are now becoming eligible for laser hair removal. People with dark hair and light skin have the highest chances of success. Some hospitals, however have treatment systems that have the potential for success in dark skin and light haired people. Check with your hospital if you are concerned about the ideality of your skin-hair combination.
Are you using the right laser hair removal doctor?
Laser hair removal is not as simple as the normal spa treatment you are used to. As such, there is a need to ensure that your doctor is fully qualified for the job. Check the hospital’s website and see what information it has on its specialists. Go for personal consultations and ask as many questions as you need to.
Stay away from the sun
The color of the skin has a huge impact on the success rate of laser hair removal. As a result, exposing your skin to the sun in a bid to get a tan prior to the procedure is a not a good idea. Doctors recommend that the area where hair is to be removed from needs to be shielded from sunlight for about 72hours before laser hair removal.
A little irritation is normal
Having lasers aimed at your skin sounds like a pretty bad ordeal anyone can go through. Thankfully, this is not the case. It feels more or less like waxing afterwards. Patients may experience a little bit of irritation and redness but both of these subside within a day if not hours.
It is not magic and will not happen instantly
Tweezing and waxing may provide instant, quick fixes. On the other hand, hair will not disappear instantly with laser hair removal. Like other cosmetic procedures, it’s a process that takes time. A number of visits to your doctor may be required before hair can be fully eradicated.
This article was not written by Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D and may not represent his views. To talk to Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D. please contact the office directly.
