When you were first introduced to the art of hair removal, most likely the first technique was the classic razor. This worked like a charm as long as you put up with the occasional—or maybe all too frequent—cut or razor bump. However, like many of us, eventually, you grow tired of this method and wonder if there could ever be a long-term solution to your unwanted hair problems. This is where laser hair removal comes in!
Is laser hair removal safe?
Laser hair removal is a safe option for removing hair if done safely. The FDA even approves some laser hair removal devices for at-home use. Of course, with at home use, the risk of negative side effects such as scarring, burns, or other injuries increase. The safest option is going to a professional with the proper equipment and experience that can ensure you are getting the most out of your treatment while minimizing the risk of injury.
Is laser hair removal permanent?
Laser hair removal is not a 100% permanent hair removal technique. It usually takes about 6-8 sessions about 5 weeks apart to get the initial results, and then periodic maintenance a few times a year to see lasting results. How long laser hair removal lasts will vary from person to person— it can last from months to years without needing upkeep, but it is recommended to get “touch-ups” to see the best results long term. One positive is that the hair will grow back lighter and finer than before treatment, but it will begin to grow back over time.
What are the pros and cons of laser hair treatment?
For many, laser hair removal treatment can be a wonderful thing, if you're willing to pay the price. Not saying this procedure costs an arm and a leg, but you're probably not going to be popping into the clinic as frequently as your favorite coffee shop.
Pros
Eliminates the need to shave!
The nice thing about laser hair treatment is that after six or so consistent treatments, hair growth is eliminated to up 90 percent! You almost never have to worry about shaving again!
At-home treatments available
While they may not be as fast or effective as a licensed hair treatment clinic would be, there are at-home treatment options for laser hair removal. IlluminageTOUCH Permanent Hair Removal is an FDA-approved device that has sessions up to thirty minutes long that combine pulsed light technology and radio frequency, and offers low, medium and high treatment settings. Lookfantastic offers a variety of permanent hair removal devices that can get you started on your hair removal journey without the cost of going to a professional.
Fast and Pain-free
Along with being one of the most effective ways of removing hair, it is also one of the most painless methods out there! The process is rapid and gentle and provides a long-term solution to ingrown hairs and red bumps! Most people that walk in for the treatment are surprised by how much it doesn't hurt.
Cons
Laser hair removal tends to be expensive
Some of the most common areas to be worked on are the armpits, face, neck, bikini line, arms and legs. A small area can be anywhere from $350 to $500 while the big areas like a full leg and back can be anywhere between $500 and $1000.
The sun is NOT your friend
After treatment, your skin is extremely sensitive and it is highly recommended you avoid sun exposure for the first 24 hours after treatment. Any heat, saunas or direct sun exposure is discouraged and applying sun protection to exposed areas is recommended.
Your hair color may be too light
While you may think your leg hair sticks out like a sore thumb, the laser treatment may disagree with you. While technology has advanced the machines we use for laser treatments, sometimes hairs that are too light in color are not going to be able to be detected by the wavelengths used in the laser hair treatment.
Going in for a laser hair treatment is definitely an investment. If you're not willing to go in for the number of sessions it would take for you to see the results you want, then it's probably best to stick with the old-fashioned razor blade for now.
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