Laser hair removal is one of the most popular and effective aesthetic treatments for permanently removing unwanted body hair. Unlike other methods such as waxing or depilatory creams, the laser directly targets the hair follicle, preventing the hair from growing back.
One of the main advantages of Laser hair removal is that it significantly reduces the appearance of ingrown hairs, those annoying red and irritated bumps that form when a hair becomes trapped beneath the skin. This is because the laser weakens the hair follicle and causes the hair to grow back thinner and weaker, reducing the chances of it becoming ingrown.
In this article, we will explain how Laser hair removal works to prevent ingrown hairs, the benefits it provides, which types of lasers are most effective, and everything you need to know if you’re considering this treatment.
How does Laser hair removal work to prevent ingrown hairs?
Uses a high-intensity laser beam that is selectively absorbed by melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. This causes the hair follicle to heat up and become destroyed, preventing the hair from growing back.
With repeated laser sessions, the hair follicle progressively weakens until it stops producing hair permanently. This is known as selective photothermolysis.
By removing hair from the root, Laser hair removal prevents the hair from having a sharp tip after shaving. This makes it much less likely for the new hair to curve under the skin and become ingrown when it grows back.
Additionally, the laser consumes the hemoglobin present around the hair follicle. This helps the hair to be able to exit the skin more easily without becoming trapped.
For all these reasons, with Laser hair removal, you can say goodbye to those annoying red and irritated bumps in the armpits, legs, bikini area, and other sensitive areas.
Benefits for preventing ingrown hairs
Undergoing U sessions to prevent ingrown hairs has significant benefits:
- Hair removal from the root, preventing it from becoming ingrown as it grows back.
- Drastic reduction in the amount of body hair.
- Decreased thickness and density of remaining hair.
- Smoother, softer skin without ingrown hairs or irritation.
- Long-lasting results: hair can take years to regrow.
- High precision, as only unwanted hair is removed while respecting the skin.
- No need for razor blades, avoiding cuts and irritation.
- Increased confidence and self-esteem by getting rid of unsightly hair.
Compared to other hair removal methods, laser is the most effective and long-lasting option for preventing ingrown hairs, especially in prone areas like the armpits and bikini line.
Types of lasers for hair removal and ingrown hairs
Not all types of lasers are the same. The most modern and effective ones for removing hair and preventing ingrown hairs are:
Diode laser
The diode laser emits a penetrating light that destroys the hair follicle. It is very effective for olive and tanned skin tones. It requires 6 to 8 sessions and provides long-lasting results.
Alexandrite laser
The high-powered Alexandrite laser works well on lighter skin tones. It also requires several sessions, but its results can be permanent.
Nd:YAG laser
This laser penetrates deeply into the skin, making it very effective for coarse and dark hair. It is the most recommended for darker skin tones due to its longer, safer wavelength.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
IPL is not a laser per se, but it uses light of different wavelengths that heat and remove hair. It requires more sessions but is safe for all skin types.
How many Laser hair removal sessions are needed?
The number of Laser hair removal sessions needed can vary between 6 and 10 or more, depending on these variables:
- Body area being treated: larger areas require more sessions.
- Thickness and density of the hair: coarser, denser hair requires more sessions.
- Skin and hair color: the laser is more effective on light skin and dark hair.
- Type of laser: more advanced lasers work faster.
- Individual response of each person.
It is recommended to start with 6-8 sessions, with an interval of 6-8 weeks between each one. Afterwards, it can be evaluated if additional sessions are needed to remove all hair and prevent it from becoming ingrown as it grows back. Touch-up sessions help achieve complete results.
Preparation and aftercare for Laser hair removal
To achieve the best results and avoid ingrown hairs, it is important to follow these recommendations:
- Do not expose the treatment area to the sun for one month before and after the treatment.
- Avoid irritating the skin between sessions with waxing, tweezers, depilatory creams, etc.
- Shave the area before treatment so the laser can access the hair follicle.
- Arrive with clean, dry skin and no makeup or creams.
- Use sunscreen after each session to avoid discoloration.
- Gently exfoliate the skin between sessions to help hairs exit.
- Do not use pools or saunas for 10-15 days after laser treatment.
- Take pain relievers if experiencing pain after the session.
- Attend all recommended sessions by the specialist.
Does Laser hair removal hurt? What does it feel like?
The amount of pain experiencedl can vary depending on the body area and each person’s pain threshold. However, most patients describe the sensation as:
- A very brief stinging sensation, like a rubber band snapping against the skin.
- A slight stinging or burning feeling, bearable.
- Discomfort similar to hot wax hair removal.
- Increased sensitivity in more sensitive areas like the bikini area.
To control the pain, it is advisable to apply a numbing cream or take an oral pain reliever before the laser treatment. Ice can also be used to numb the skin.
The good news is that laser sessions are very short, lasting only a few minutes. And although some discomfort may be felt during the treatment, it disappears quickly afterwards.
Risks and side effects of Laser hair removal
The most common side effectsl are:
- Redness and sensitivity in the treated skin for 2-3 days afterwards.
- Slight swelling, itching or scab formation as the area heals.
- Hair takes 1-3 weeks to start shedding.
- Infrequent, but hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation of the skin can occur.
As for risks, they are very low if the treatment is performed by qualified professionals. Burns, scarring, and infections can occur but are isolated cases. Medical recommendations before and after laser treatment must always be followed.
Where to get safe Laser hair removal?
It is most advisable to always go to dermatological clinics and specialized physicians for safe and effective Laser hair removal.
Look for professionals certified in this treatment, who use advanced laser technology such as diode, Alexandrite or Nd:YAG equipment.
Additionally, it is important that the clinic or beauty center has Laser hair removal machines from reputable brands, with the highest quality standards. And of course, that they guarantee rigorous hygiene and safety protocols are followed.
It is never recommended to undergo laser hair removal at unauthorized centers or with untrained personnel, as this puts your skin’s health at risk.
If you have doubts, request a free evaluation with the specialist and ask to see their certificates before undergoing any treatment.
Does Laser hair removal permanently prevent ingrown hairs?
Is currently the most effective and permanent method available for eliminating unwanted hair and preventing it from becoming ingrown repeatedly.
However, laser hair removal does not guarantee 100% permanent hair removal, especially in larger areas such as the legs or back.
With the recommended sessions, an 85-95% reduction in hair can be achieved, depending on the type of skin and area treated. The remaining hair will grow back thinner, softer, slower, and lighter in color.
In most patients, hair stops being a problem or simply does not grow back at all. But in some cases, after years, some fine, light hair may start to emerge that rarely becomes ingrown.
Therefore, it is most likely that with laser hair removal, you can say goodbye forever to annoying ingrown hairs and associated irritation. However, occasional touch-up sessions may be needed to maintain results.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laser hair removal and ingrown hairs
Who is Laser hair removal recommended for?
Is effective for both women and men. The best results are obtained on light skin and dark hair, but advanced lasers work on all skin types and hair colors. It is recommended for anyone who suffers from recurrent ingrown hairs and wants to permanently remove hair.
Does Laser hair removal work for facial hair?
Yes, diode or Nd:YAG lasers are very effective for permanently removing facial hair such as beards and mustaches on both men and women. Several sessions are needed, but it can resolve the issue of unwanted facial hair in a lasting way.
Is Laser hair removal more painful than waxing?
Most patients describe the pain as mild discomfort similar to hot wax hair removal. But since the treatment is so brief, laser hair removal is usually better tolerated than repeatedly ripping wax strips.
How long do the laser results last?
With the full set of sessions, long-lasting hair reduction is achieved, even permanent in most cases. But to maintain 100% hair-free, touch-up sessions may be needed every so often depending on the case.
Can Laser hair removal be done during pregnancy?
Laser hair removal is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The hormonal and skin changes can affect the results. It is best to do it before or months after giving birth.
Does Laser hair removal work for the bikini area?
Yes, the laser is effective for removing hair from the bikini area, including the labia majora and minora. With the appropriate sessions, complete hair removal can be achieved in this area and ingrown hairs prevented.
Conclusion: Laser hair removal reduces ingrown hairs in a lasting way
To say goodbye once and for all to annoying ingrown hairs and associated irritation, Laser hair removal is the most advanced and effective treatment currently available. By destroying the hair follicle, hair is removed from the root and recurrent ingrown hairs are prevented.
With periodic laser sessions, a significant reduction in body hair is achieved, leaving it thinner, softer, and slower-growing. Ideal for sensitive, ingrown hair-prone areas like the armpits, bikini line, legs, etc.
Although not a 100% permanent method and occasional touch-ups may be needed, laser hair removal offers the best long-lasting solution against the unsightly and painful problem of ingrown hairs. Simply with a few minutes of treatment, you can say goodbye to unwanted hair and irritation.
