How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

If you’re tired of constantly battling against rogue hairs, you might want to put down the shavers, razors and tweezers and try something that will last longer.  Laser hair removal could be a good alternative for those who don’t want to spend so much time worrying about their various hairlines.  But how does laser hair removal work?  In this article we take the mystery out of this popular procedure.

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a concentrated light beam to heat and disrupt the ability of hair follicles to produce hair.  The damage of the hair follicle by the laser reduces and slows future hair production.  Depending on the target location, laser treatment can reduce hair production for a period of weeks to months.  Almost anywhere on the body that produces hair can be treated with a laser with the exception of the eyelids.  Laser treatment usually works better on people with lighter skin and darker hair.

How Does The Procedure Occur?

Depending on the parts of the body you’re having treated you can expect a schedule of two to six sessions.  You’ll need to wear eye goggles and an anesthetizing cream may be applied to your skin.  The technician presses the laser wand against your skin which will create a blast of heat to affect the hair follicles.  You may feel a sensation of pinpricks.  The length of each session will depend on the amount of area the laser has to cover.

What Are The Results?

Your skin might redden or slightly swell after the treatment.  Hair will begin to fall out over a few days to a few weeks.  It may not grow back for months or possibly even years, but this depends on the individual as well as the area treated.  If and when the hair does regrow, it’ll typically be lighter and finer than it was originally.