Laser Hair removal is a terrific way to rid yourself of unwanted facial and body hair. The procedure can be done in a few hours in a physician's office or treatment facility, and it eliminates the need for tweezers, wax and other hair removal systems. Here are some things you can expect during the procedure.
Pre-Treatment
Before pursuing treatment, you should consult your doctor to make sure you are an appropriate candidate for the procedure. You can prepare for the treatment by avoiding exposure to the sun, plucking, waxing or electrolysis. On the day of the procedure, you will be fitted for special protective googles that will shield your eyes from the laser beam. The doctor will then apply a numbing lotion to the treatment site to alleviate discomfort.
Procedure
During the procedure, the doctor will use a hand-held device to administer the laser. Some devices may use a cooling gel to protect the skin. When the doctor activates the laser, the beam penetrates the hair follicles and prevents further growth. It's common to experience a stinging sensation when this happens. The length of the procedure depends on the size of the treatment site. A small treatment area like the upper lip may take a few minutes while a larger area may take a couple of hours.
Recovery and Results
Immediately following the treatment, you may experience swelling, redness and a stinging sensation. These symptoms should subside after a few hours. The treatment site may also become crusty a few days following the procedure. To ensure a speedy recovery, you should avoid excess sun exposure. Results vary depending on the individual. Patients who receive multiple treatments often experience a long duration of hair loss.
