What is laser hair removal

As the name implies, it is a process by which a laser is used to remove unwanted hair. Laser hair removal has been around for more than two decades but it wasn't until recently that it has become popular. The process uses a laser to heat the dark hair follicle so that it causes damage to the follicle and discourages future grow. Not all hair is dark so in that case color needs to be introduced to make laser hair removal effective. Except for adjacent to the eye, any area with excess hair may be treated. The most common areas of treatment are the face, upper lip, neck, chest, periareolar, underarms, back, abdomen, bikini line, and legs.

There is much debate over the true effectiveness of laser hair removal. While the process is able to remove unwanted hair, it does not appear to be able to permanently remove hair as many centers claim. Be very wary of the word "permanent". Laser technicians are by law forced to use the term hair "reduction". Some people have great results with the process but it is no wonder cure for unwanted hair.

The procedure works best for people with light skin and dark hair. The laser heats the dark hair follicle and not the light skin. If you wish to remove light or gray hair, a method called intense pulsed light, which uses a broad spectrum of non-laser light, may be an option. If you have dark skin, laser hair removal is most likely not for you because it can cause permanent skin damage. There are some newer lasers in use that claim to be safe for people with dark skin too but it might be best to take a wait and see approach.

How to choose a laser hair removal practitioner

The most important thing to remember when picking a laser hair removal practitioner is that they are performing a service not practicing medicine. Simply put, they are salespeople attempting to get your business. Some clinics will make claims that the procedure is painless or permanent but remember the facts and forget the hype. Laser hair removal works well for some and there can be more than mild discomfort.

When choosing between a doctor or laser technician, it is probably safest to go with the doctor, preferably a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Doctors are just as likely to try and sell you on the procedure but doctors are more regulated and better at monitoring the procedure. This being said, never take the word of the doctor as gospel. Always be suspect. They are trying to sell a service.

Maybe the best way to find a good practitioner is to ask around for a recommendation from friends or friends of friends. Once you gather a few names, feel free to go in and interview the person who will perform your laser hair removal. Insist that you speak with that person; don't take no for answer.

Discuss the costs, the side effects, and any claims they may make. Don't let the doctor throw around numbers and claims. Force them to write it all down so that they have to stand by their words. Lastly, try and set-up a test treatment on a small patch of skin so you can see how laser hair removal will work for you.

Do not sign up for treatment at the consultation. Wait to see how your skin responds to the test patch, and take home the information and do some more research. If you get a sample contract, read it over and understand it thoroughly. Never sign something you haven't read word for word.

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