A Comprehensive Guide To Laser Hair Removal
Constant waxing, tweezing, or shaving of the hair can be pain-staking for some individuals. Hence, some people prefer the easy way out, which is the use of laser hair removal procedure. This treatment is not as intimidating as it sounds, even though some people find it a bit scary. In simpler terms, a laser gadget releases energy that destroys the root of the hair follicles, preventing more hair from growing in that area.
Understanding How Laser Hair Removal Work
To understand how this technique works, it is necessary to consider the three phases of the hair growth cycle, namely: The anagen phase (active hair growth phase), the catagen phase (the transitional phase), and Telogen phase (the resting period). The laser hair removal technique is highly effective for individuals who want to get rid of unwanted hair particles in specific areas during the growth period or the anagen phase. The laser device emits a light beam which the hair follicle absorbs. This energy transforms into heat, which with enough temperature can destroy the hair root and prevent the growth of new hair follicles.
Areas that Work Best with Laser Hair Removal
Even though laser hair removal devices get rid of unwanted hair in all parts of the body, there are specific areas that work best, including the chin, lips, bikini, and armpits. Individuals with thick, tough, dark hair can effectively use this treatment, as the laser device can detect hair pigment. However, bear in mind that the procedure for such hair texture may take a while to complete.
Types of Lasers
Lasers are mainly categorized into three types, namely Diode, Alexandrite, and Nd: YAG.
- Diode
This type of laser works efficiently for both dark and light skin.
- Alexandrite
Individuals who have large surface areas to treat can use the Alexandrite laser, as it offers the fastest treatment. This laser is ideal for people with skin complexions ranging from light to olive.
- Nd: YAG
Nd: YAG lasers are known to emit long pulses. However, it has its limitations when it comes to treating fine or light hair. On the other hand, it is effective on several skin types.
How to Select an Ideal Laser Hair Removal Device
To select an effective laser treatment gadget, there are some areas to look into, which includes the wavelength, operational power, safety, connection type, spot size, operation modes, and price.
- Wavelength
One of the ways to rate the effectiveness of a laser hair removal gadget on a skin complexion is to review its wavelength. Generally, this rating can fall between 695 nm and 1,064 nm. A pulsed diode laser with a wavelength of 810 nm works adeptly for skin tones between pale to medium, while a 755-nm Alexandrite laser gadget can effectively treat both fair and light skin complexions. An Nd: YAG laser hair removal gadget with a wavelength of 1064 nm works ideally for tanned and dark tones. Individuals with pale skin types can go for 695-nm laser devices.
- Operational Power
If a laser gadget has more power, it will be more effective in hair removal treatment. As a result, such gadget users will see tremendous results. It will become easy to get rid of hair faster.
- Safety
The overall effectiveness of a laser gadget is futile if it does not provide users with safety, especially in an environment filled with children. It is essential to get models that come with security and sensors that prevent the device from operating without specific guidelines.
- Connection Type
Some laser gadgets are mains-powered (cord), while others are cordless or battery-powered. It is easier to handle the latter than the former during treatment. However, they need a constant power boost to work effectively. In contrast, mains-powered gadgets are more powerful than their counterparts and do not need charging. But the downside to these devices is the problem encountered with the power cords, which can sometimes get in the way.
- Spot Size
If a laser hair remover to perform optimally, it should have a large spot size, that permits deeper tissue penetration and quick laser treatment of the area. The average laser hair removal device comes with a spot size ranging from 10 to 18 mm. Newer devices feature larger sizes.
- Operation Modes
Laser hair removal gadgets come in either Scan or Single settings, depending on the application. For body areas, like the face, underarms, and bikini line, getting a device with Single function would be a right call. On the contrary, laser hair removers with Scan function works effectively on large areas, which include the legs or backs. With this feature, getting rid of multiple hairs at once becomes a walk in the park.
- Price
Getting a quality laser device does not require breaking the bank or emptying one’s pockets. Most of these gadgets fall in a price range of $100 to $500 – depending on the brand, model, and features that come with it. Most importantly, check out the features tailored to meet specific needs, including skin tone, before purchasing one.
When to Expect Results
Laser hair treatments vary from one individual to another; hence, the results are different as well, especially in areas like hair growth rate and skin tones. However, on average, users can witness physical total hair removal results during six to eight therapy sessions.
Using top-quality laser appliance can guarantee effective treatment on areas, such as the arm, face, chin, leg, and back. With these devices, a user can focus on dark, tough, hair follicles without damaging the surrounding areas. The removal of each hair particle takes milliseconds and can accommodate multiple follicles at a go. With this feature, an individual can cover a large area within an hour or less, including the back and legs, while getting the best treatment result. On the other hand, smaller areas like the armpits can take less than a minute to treat. On average, permanent hair loss is visible after three to seven treatments, depending on the individual and the quality of the laser gadget used.
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