Is Laser Hair Removal Safe
“Is laser hair removal safe?” is one of the most common questions regarding intense pulse light therapy for hair removal.
Shaving and waxing can be a real hassle, but most people would rather be inconvenienced than risk death or permanent injury over vanity and the desire to remove pesky unwanted hair. The good news is that laser for hair removal is surprisingly safe and generally effective. In this article, you’ll learn just how laser hair removal actually works, what sort of side effects have been reported and what the worst case scenario might be for this type of hair removal treatment.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal is a clinical procedure using an intense, pulsating beam of laser light to stun and damage the hair follicles, thus inhibiting future growth. Laser for hair growth is extremely effective at delaying growth, but as for total removal, the results really vary from person to person. Most people go in for 4 to 6 laser hair removal treatments spaced several weeks apart, then return for periodic maintenance very 6 to 12 months afterwards. Laser hair removal costs $450 per session on average, which is perhaps the bad news, but the good news is that one needn’t fret over “Is laser hair removal safe?”
Common Laser Hair Removal Side Effects
One way to answer the question “Is laser hair removal safe?” is to look at common side effects. Generally speaking, the treated skin will look and feel sunburned for a few days. Doctors recommend that patients use moisturizer, aloe gel creams and apply cold compresses following laser hair removal treatment. Over the course of the month, treated hear will fall out and it’s recommended that patients wear sunscreen.
A 2002 study of 250 hair removal patients conducted by Cornell University researchers found that only about 3 percent of people who undergo laser hair removal experience any side effects whatsoever. Of those who did, three patients had small outbreaks of acne, six patients had temporary lightening or darkening of the skin and two people experienced sensitivity or tingling. That being said, all symptoms cleared up completely within a week or two.
“While complications from laser or light-based hair removal have been documented in the literature, our study data reinforces the safety claims of office-based IPL hair removal procedure,” concluded Dr. Harvey Jay M.D. and his colleagues. “Using therapeutic levels for treatment on a significant number of patients with all skin types, we have achieved high patient satisfaction and keep side effects minimal and transient.” Their answer to the question “Is laser hair removal safe?” was a resounding YES!
Worst Case Scenario Laser For Hair Removal Results
In rare cases, laser hair removal side effects include blistering, swelling, redness, changes in pigment and even scarring. Permanent skin damage is very rare, but is more common in patients with darker complexions. Typically these incidents occur with laser hair removal technicians who aren’t that well-trained or experienced.
Laser Hair Removal Safety Tips
People who are considering laser hair removal procedures can ensure the best results by:
Seeking board-certified dermatologist for their treatments.
Asking how many times he or she has used laser for hair removal.
Requesting to see before and after photos of past clients.
Learning about what type of post-procedural care is available for patients.
Ensuring that the treatment is done in a medical setting.
Letting the doctor know if pain is experienced, which could be a sign the laser hair removal device is on the wrong setting.
The Bottom Line: Probably a bigger concern than “Is laser hair removal safe?” is “Will laser hair removal be effective for me?”
Expectations are often high with such an expensive treatment, yet results are never guaranteed. Although the hair re-growth may be finer or lighter, many people are disappointed when the Laser for hair removal treatment doesn’t eradicate the hair permanently.
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