There are many different techniques to remove unwanted hair. Some of these include waxing, shaving, coils, electrolysis and laser. Although each has its advantages and disadvantages, they all perform the same function. That is removing unwanted hair.
One such technique that has become quite popular these days is laser hair removal. This technique works by using a laser on the hair at a specified wavelength that emits a specialized light. The light from the laser is passed through the skin and is absorbed by the hair follicle. This light actually targets the melanin (colour) in the hair follicle and damages it, thereby causing the hair to fall out. Interestingly, the use of certain laser for removing hair has been approved by The Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although the technique is popular, there are advantages and disadvantages of using this method.
Advantages of Laser Hair Removal
The laser hair removal process has advantages in that larger areas can be treated. In addition it is also safe enough to be used on all parts of the body such as the face, back, underarm, bikini line, legs and arms. Compared to electrolysis, it is less painful as the laser only causes a slight burning sensation compared to the needle prick feeling of electrolysis. Unlike shaving or waxing, laser hair removal is usually long lasting.
Disadvantages of Laser Hair Removal
One disadvantage for laser hair removal is that not everyone is the perfect candidate for this type of treatment. Those with lighter skin and dark hair have a much higher chance of permanent hair removal than grey, red or blonde hair. In addition, those with dark skin or who are tanned are also not good candidates as the laser may cause damage to their skin due to high pigment levels. The reason being is that dark hair contains a pigment called eumelanin which effectively absorbs more laser energy and therefore results in more effective destruction of the hair follicle. Due to the higher effectiveness of the treatment towards dark haired fair skin patients, it leads to fewer treatment and is therefore less costly. Other the other hand, grey, red and blonde hair contain a pigment called pheomelanin that absorbs less laser energy reducing the effectiveness of the treatment. Therefore extra treatment is required for the same effect. So before you sign up for this treatment, make sure you know the principal of this treatment. If you are not an ideal candidate, be prepared for extra treatment charges.
Laser hair removal is expensive due to the multiple treatments required. The reasons is that hair grows in a cycle that ranges from approximately 6 to 12 weeks and this is the amount of time that it takes hair to grow from the base of the follicle to the surface of the skin. As hair grows during these cycles, only a portion of the hair is being treated during this growth period with each laser treatment. Therefore multiple treatments (approximately four to eight depending upon your colour of your hair and skin) are required during this growth period. This is so that each treatment allows total coverage on all hairs during the various growth cycle. This can range from approximately a four to eight week interval. As discussed above, darked hair patients with fair skin require less treatment.
The average cost per treatment ranges from $500 and about four sessions are required. Again, this number will differ depending upon the size of the area treated and the colour of your skin and hair. To get an exact cost, a consultation on pricing is an individual process and it is best to discuss this with the laser center.
Once you have decided to undertake this treatment, make sure it is performed by an experienced laser treatment centre. Due to different state regulations, there has been varying level of compliance with laser hair removal centres and this has resulted in improper treatment by unskilled clinics. Some states require a doctor to perform the treatment, whilst for others; anyone including "unskilled" personnel can perform the treatment. Read the latest news on laser hair removal for more information. These improper unskilled clinic may result in burns (similar to sunburn), lesions, skin discolouration that can last several months, or patchy/patterned regrowth. One rule to remember is that cheaper is not always the best, so find the best laser hair removal centre around.
