Laser Hair Removal Research

Men and women interested in the removal of unwanted hair via lasers should first do their fair share of laser hair removal research before taking steps to actually have the procedure.

It's important to know and understand how the procedure works, the benefits and risks, the types of lasers being used, and how to choose a reputable physician's office to conduct the procedure.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Hair contains pigment or melanin, which gives hair its color. When a laser is directed at the hair, the pigment absorbs the heat generated by the laser. The heat is transferred to the follicle, the follicle becomes inflamed, and the follicle is forced into a state of rest. Hair that is resting doesn't produce any hair, so you see smooth skin as a result.

Why Choose This Hair Removal Method?

It's pretty straightforward why people choose this method after doing laser hair removal research. Unwanted hair in several areas of the body can be reduced or, in some cases, permanently removed. Areas that are typically treated are the upper lip, bikini line, under the arms, legs, back, facial areas, neck, chest, arms, and stomach.

Who Can Benefit From a Laser Procedure?

Some physicians will say that everyone is a good candidate, but that isn't necessarily true. People with dark hair and light skin are excellent candidates. On the flip side, people with darker skin can benefit from laser hair removal, but they may also experience side effects on the skin where the hair was removed. People with gray, red, white, or blonde hair are not good candidates for this procedure.

The reason some hair colors don't respond well to this treatment is because the laser targets color. A laser will target darker colored skin before it will target the hair, which means the skin could be damaged or affected while the hair would remain intact.

That's not to say that darker skinned individuals might not benefit from this procedure, but they should be very careful when choosing a physician to do it. Some physicians say they have perfected the right technique using just the right wavelength of laser to effectively treat people with darker skin and successfully removing unwanted hair without damage to the skin itself.

What is the Cost of Laser Hair Removal?

Again, this is another aspect of laser hair removal research that is very worthwhile. Take the time to find out what different physicians charge for each treatment and how many treatments will be required.

Average costs are $150 to $700, depending on the area of the body being treated.

Benefits of Removing Hair with Lasers

• Quick and relatively painless

• Reduction or removal of unwanted hair

• Lasers target the hair specifically

• Many people enjoy permanent hair loss

• Can get treatment on lunch hour and return to work

Risks Associated with Laser Hair Removal

• Irritated skin - the skin can scab or get crusty in treated areas

• Skin could turn a different color in areas treated - can be temporary or permanent

• Potential infection if site isn't properly cleaned and treated

• Hair could return despite the treatments - it may be lighter in color and not as coarse

• Burning sensation on skin

• Scarring and blistering can occur in some people

• Tanned individuals are at a higher risk of experiencing skin discoloration or skin blisters

• Bruising

• Skin texture can change altogether in the treated areas

• Several treatments are required for permanent hair loss - costly and time consuming

How to Conduct Solid Laser Hair Removal Research

How can you know whether the information you have found is accurate? Since using a laser on your skin is a more significant health risk you will want to look a bit deeper than just the website or resource.

Who is behind the information? In other words, who paid for the research? Who is writing the articles and what are their credentials? Keep in mind that not everything you read on the Internet is valid information - it must be vetted to make sure it's accurate.

1. Never trust a research article or document that doesn't list an author

2. Verify that the credits given are valid

3. Is the author published in a reputable journal or magazine?

4. Who is the author employed by - a university? Research institution?

5. Verify any URLs linking to a professional organization - check into the organization's background and be aware of potential political bias

6. Some reputable sites end in .gov, .edu, or .org, but always be aware of potential motives behind the information written

7. How do you feel about the information? Use your own inner wisdom and discernment.

How To Choose a Physician for Laser Procedures

The physician you choose should have experience in removing hair with lasers and should be board certified in cosmetic surgery or dermatology. Here is a list of questions you should ask when conducting your laser hair removal research while looking for a physician.

• Is there a physician conducting the procedure or at least supervising the procedure?

• Are you board certified?

• Do all of your associates have proper licensing?

• Do you own your lasers? Are they here in the office?

• What are the types of lasers you use and what are the wavelengths of each?

• Where did you get your training?

• Am I a good candidate for this procedure?

• Do you have references I can contact?

• How much do you charge for each procedure?

• Who will be present in the room during the laser treatment?

• How many times will I need to come in?

When conducting your laser hair removal research, pay close attention to your own feelings about the procedure and the physician. Use your best discernment when making any decisions, but above all, make sure to do thorough research before making a final decision.

A reputable physician should let you know what to do before having the procedure. Be sure to ask for a list of benefits, side effects, and risks so you can take them home and study them and do research.

If at any time you feel the procedure is unsafe or you don't feel the risks are worth the benefits of the hair removal, don't move forward. Do more research instead and then proceed carefully before signing on the dotted line.