Laser hair removal is an increasingly popular treatment for permanently removing unwanted hair. It involves using a laser beam that destroys the hair follicle, preventing the hair from regrowing in that area.
Many people wonder if this treatment is really safe, especially for young or sensitive skin. In this article, we will analyze in depth how works, its advantages and disadvantages, what ages it is recommended for, and tips for undergoing this treatment safely.
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser hair removal machine emits an intense beam of light that is attracted to the melanin in the hair follicle. This light is transformed into heat, which selectively destroys the hair root.
The sessions are repeated every few weeks, generally between 4 and 8 weeks, to impact the follicle in its different growth stages. In this way, after several sessions, most of the hair in the treated area is permanently removed.
The number of sessions needed depends on each person and the area being treated.:
- Underarms: 6-8 sessions
- Legs: 8-12 sessions
- Bikini area: 6-10 sessions
- Face: 6-10 sessions
The most modern laser hair removal equipment has built-in cooling systems for greater patient comfort and safety. The procedure takes only a few minutes and does not require anesthesia or recovery time.
Advantages of laser hair removal
The benefits of undergoing a treatment are:
- Permanent hair removal: after the recommended sessions, hair stops growing in 85-90% permanently.
- High precision: the laser beam only impacts the hair follicle, without damaging the surrounding skin. This makes it a very safe treatment.
- Speed: the sessions are very brief and do not require recovery time. Normal activity can be resumed immediately afterward.
- Lasting results: once the treatment is completed, the results are permanent, and the hair does not regrow. This greatly reduces the time spent on hair removal.
- Confidence: by getting rid of unwanted hair, many people feel more self-confident.
Disadvantages and considerations
Although it is a safe procedure, has some drawbacks and requires taking certain precautions:
- Not effective on all skin and hair types: melanin is necessary for the laser to impact the follicle, so results may be unsatisfactory on very light hair and very fair skin.
- Requires multiple sessions: the treatment must be repeated between 6 and 12 times to achieve complete hair removal. This requires consistency and dedicating time and money.
- May cause mild side effects: redness, swelling, burning, or itching are common for 1-3 days after treatment.
- Must be done by experts: it is essential to go only to certified centers and professionals with extensive experience and proper equipment.
- Partial hair regrowth: over time, between 10-15% of the removed hair may regrow. This requires touch-up sessions.
- Cost: professional laser equipment is expensive, so complete treatments can be costly.
What age is recommended to start?
Can be done at any age after puberty. However, it is especially recommended between approximately 18 and 40 years old.
During adolescence, hormonal changes are causing constant modifications, so the results of laser hair removal may be less satisfactory or require more sessions.
From age 18, when hair characteristics are more established, better results are obtained. In middle-aged people, although the treatment is also effective, the skin texture becomes more delicate, so greater precautions are required.
Is not recommended before puberty, when the hair follicles have not yet completed their development. It is also not advised for minors without parental consent.
In summary, the best time to undergo this treatment is during youth and early adulthood, ideally between 18 and 40 years old, when the skin and hair have the optimal characteristics to achieve the best results.
Tips for safe and effective laser hair removal
For treatment to be truly safe and achieve permanent hair removal, these recommendations should be followed:
- Always go to professional dermatological centers with qualified personnel and certified technology. Avoid unauthorized places without proper training.
- Read and sign an informed consent detailing possible risks and complications, however minimal.
- Inform about health conditions such as pregnancy, medication, or a history of skin diseases.
- Avoid exposing the area to be treated to the sun a few weeks before and after the session to prevent spots.
- Do not wax or use hair removal creams on the area in the 4-6 weeks before laser treatment, so the follicle is in its active phase.
- Shave the hair the day before the session so the laser light can effectively reach the hair follicle.
- Arrive with clean skin, no makeup, creams or deodorant to maximize light penetration.
- Wear protective eyewear during the procedure to protect your eyes from the intense light.
- Apply ice packs locally after treatment to soothe the skin and reduce sensitivity.
- Do not remove hair with any other method between sessions to achieve effective hair removal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laser Hair Removal
Is laser hair removal painful?
Most people tolerate the procedure well, experiencing only a slight discomfort or stinging when the light beam hits the skin. Modern cooling equipment with gel or cold air on the skin makes the experience practically painless.
Can anyone undergo laser hair removal?
No. Because the laser acts on melanin, satisfactory results are not obtained on very light hair and very fair skin. It is also not recommended for deeply tanned people, those with scars or vascular problems in the area to be treated.
Does hair regrow after laser hair removal?
In most cases, 85-90% of the removed hair does not regrow. But over the years, some scattered hair may reappear in the area, requiring touch-up sessions.
How long do the results last?
If the recommended number of sessions is completed, the results of laser hair removal are permanent. By destroying the hair follicle, hair is prevented from regrowing.
Can laser hair removal be done during pregnancy?
It is not recommended. The hormonal changes during pregnancy alter hair and skin, making the treatment less effective. It is best to wait until after childbirth.
Is laser hair removal good for the face?
Yes, facial hair such as mustaches and beards can be safely and effectively removed with laser hair removal, achieving smooth, shadow-free results. Between 8 and 12 sessions are required in most cases.
Can stretch marks be removed with laser?
No. Laser hair removal is specifically for removing unwanted hair. For stretch marks, we recommend consulting other aesthetic treatments such as microdermabrasion or pulsed light.
How much does laser hair removal cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of the area being treated and the technology used. On average, the cost per session for full legs is $300, underarms $100, bikini area $150, face $250.
Laser hair removal, performed by experienced professionals with quality equipment, has proven to be a safe and effective procedure for the permanent removal of unwanted hair, with results that can last a lifetime.
It is an excellent alternative to traditional waxing or shaving, especially in sensitive areas such as the face and bikini area. Additionally, it increases confidence by permanently getting rid of unsightly hair.
Taking into account some simple precautions and being consistent with the recommended sessions, laser hair removal can be done safely at any age from adolescence onwards, achieving smooth, hair-free skin to enjoy.
