LASER Hair Removal – FAQs | Temporary or Permanent?

laser hair removal of leg

Laser hair removal is one of the most common cosmetic procedures done in our clinic. To know more about the procedure, you can check out – All About Laser Hair Removal and read about the top 10 pros and cons of laser hair removal.

Here, we answer some of the most asked questions related to LHR which we encounter commonly.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal is actually laser hair reduction (LHR) treatment and it works by the destruction of the hair follicles thereby disabling hair production for a variable duration of time. The laser emits a beam of energy that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The energy fired by the Laser is converted to heat, which damages the hair and inhibits or delays future hair growth and the capacity to re-grow. In 5-6 sessions, it drastically reduces hair growth, thus resulting is permanently smooth, soft skin.

Is it safe?

Our laser technology is FDA Approved and a totally safe procedure.

Is it really permanent?

In short, no. Laser hair removal works by heating the hair follicles to stop new hairs from growing and the hair follicles are put in a state of dormancy for a long period of time — much longer than with shaving and waxing. When the hairs do grow back, they’ll be lighter, finer, and fewer in number.

Does it hurt?

The patented ChillTip technology with Saphire Cooling which takes the temperature of the probe to -5°C is designed to protect the outer layer of the skin by decreasing the surface temperature, thus making the procedure highly comfortable. Some people may feel a tingling sensation but it is nothing compared to the pain of waxing. Topical numbing creams may be applied in some situations.

How many sessions will I need?

Follow-up treatments are necessary to get the most out of laser hair removal. The exact number of maintenance laser treatments varies by individual. According to most skin specialists in Gandhinagar, you will need 4-6 laser therapy sessions.
You also need to space these out by 4-6 weeks depending on the area to be treated.

When will I see the results?

You will likely see the results immediately after treatment. The results vary from patient to patient and depends on the colour and thickness of your hair, the area treated, type of laser used, and colour of your skin all affect the results. You can expect a 10% to 25% reduction in hair after the first treatment. For complete hair removal and best results, you will need to go for around 6 sittings after which most patients do not see any hair on the treated skin for several months or even years. When the hair regrows, there tends to be finer and lighter in colour. 

Does LASER have any long term side effects?

There are no long term side effects. All the side effects are temporary. During the procedure, your eyes will be covered to protect it from the laser light.

Is it true that Laser causes cancer?

People often have a misconception that laser causes cancer. The light energy used in laser hair removal only facilitates superficial heating and destruction of hair follicles, thereby resulting in permanent hair reduction. Research proves there is no risk of cancer because of the laser.

Who does the procedure?

In our country, the guidelines are not very strict but it is ideal that certified medical personnel does the procedure. In most cases, that is a skin specialist (dermatologist).

Is there downtime?

No, LHR does not require any real downtime. Immediately after having laser hair removal, your treated skin may become red and swollen. Despite this, most people return to their everyday activities.

What is the pre-procedure care to be taken?

Laser hair reduction is a process that needs due care both on the part of the skin specialist as well as on the part of the patient. Before the procedure, you should avoid sun exposure for at least 4-6 weeks prior and post the procedure. You should also not pluck/wax hair while under-going laser hair reduction (both before and in-between sessions).

What is the post-care to be followed?

Apply post-care ointments as advised by the skin specialist and regularly apply sunscreen with minimum SPF30. It is highly advisable to shave before getting a laser Hair Reduction session done. This ensures that there is no hair above the skin which the laser machine will pick. Laser machine tends to target the hair above/ below the skin. Shaving ensures there is no hair above the skin that the laser machine will target, hence preventing potential burns. Do not Wax during the course of the procedure even pre-post the sessions.

How long will the results of laser hair removal last?

Most patients remain hair-free for months or even years. When some of the hair regrows, it is usually less noticeable. To keep the area free of hair, a patient may need maintenance laser treatments after 6-12 months. 

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects are minor and last 1 to 3 days. These side effects include discomfort, swelling, redness. Other possible side effects are rare when laser hair removal is performed by a dermatologist or under the dermatologist’s direct supervision and they include blistering, herpes simplex (cold sores) outbreaks, infections, scarring, skin lightening or darkening.
It is important to follow your dermatologist’s instructions. Following both the before-treatment instructions and after-treatment instructions will greatly reduce your risk of side effects. 

When is it safe to have another laser treatment for hair removal?

This varies from patient to patient. LHR usually requires multiple sittings which may be once every 4-6 weeks. Your dermatologist will tell you when it is safe to have another treatment. 

How can I ensure that I get the best results?

According to the Mayo Clinic, hair removal option tends to work best in people with light skin tones and darker hair. Also, for best results, the American Association of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that a certified dermatologist should perform the procedure.

What is the safety record for laser hair removal?

Lasers play an important role in treating many conditions that affect the skin, hair, and nails. In the last few years, many advances have been made in laser medicine. In the past, only people with dark hair and light skin could safely have laser hair removal. Today, laser hair removal is a treatment option for patients who have dark skin also. Laser hair removal must be performed very carefully in these patients. Dermatologists know what precautions to take to provide laser hair removal safely and effectively. 

Can I get waxed while I’m undergoing LHR?

Waxing is a common method of removing unwanted hair. However, it tends to remove the hair from the root which needs to be intact for the LHR to work. The black hair is the target of the laser and if that is not present then the laser won’t be effective. You can however shave or trim which cuts the hair from the surface but it remains intact below the skin which the laser energy can target.

What is the cost of laser hair removal in Gandhinagar?

The cost of laser hair removal depends on the area to be treated and the place where you are getting it done. In our clinic, laser hair removal treatment services are available at very affordable rates. For more details, you can visit our skincare clinic or call us at 9979739999.