Laser Hair Removal- 5 Mistakes to Avoid

Laser hair removal is a procedure using high energy light beams of specific wavelengths generated by a laser, focused on the hair root, to damage the follicle and inhibit growth. This treatment has improved so much over the years that people often consider it part of their routine beauty treatment.

There are many lasers used today for cosmetic purposes, each one having special advantages, and it takes a trained professional to choose the right one for any given treatment. Removing unwanted hair is the most common use for cosmetic lasers, and sometimes undesirable results occur.
5 mistakes to avoid when considering laser hair removal

1. Considering It Permanent –
   This is a mistake often made while considering this procedure. Some hair is more stubborn than others and may grow back periodically while some roots cease to reproduce hair permanently after being treated with a laser. This may require periodic treatments to keep the skin free of hair. It is realistic to expect a significant reduction in hair growth, but 100% of the hair in a given area might not be eliminated for life.
2. All Hair Responds To Laser Treatment –
   There is melanin pigment present in hair that may determine whether this treatment will be more or less successful. Darker, thicker hair responds better because it will absorb more of the energy of the laser and allow the treatment to damage the root and stop the growth of hair. So, hair that is gray, blond, or bleached is not susceptible to the laser energy so the treatments will not work. Also, individuals with red hair have a unique type of melanin, which can also be less susceptible to laser treatments.
3. No Chance of Skin Damage Or Scarring –
   Some chance of skin damage or scarring may occur, even though the incidence is very low. It is a mistake for any professional to assure this will not happen. Although the chances are slight, no guarantee can be made that it will not happen. Many of the lasers used for hair removal can do so on tanned skin, but it is still a good idea to avoid sun tanning before getting laser treatments. This will lower the risk for burns or irritation. Skin may be lightened or darkened at the point of hair removal and there may be crustiness or redness in the affected area.
4. The Treatment Is Painless –
   Many people have a low pain threshold and may not be able to stand even a slight amount of it. The first treatment to remove hair may be especially prone to cause a slight discomfort due to the higher density of hair growth. Some people may not be able to withstand even a slight nerve response. People often liken the sensation to being pinched or snapped with a hot rubber band.
5. Anyone Can Offer Laser Hair Removal –
   This procedure requires a professional to remove unwanted hair. Using just the right type of laser, applying a topical anaesthetic or numbing cream where necessary, and targeting the affected area are all skills that require a trained professional. Care should be taken to find just that right professional. Be sure the professional fits you with special glasses to avoid harm to your eyes during the procedure. Laser Hair Removal devices are medical devices developed through research by dermatologists and other specialities regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Some would say that the procedure is safest when performed in a medical environment.