Laser hair reduction is a medical procedure that relies on pulses of light energy to destroy the hair follicle. It had been performed experimentally for about twenty years before becoming commercially available in 1995 and 1996.
Only a fraction of your hair follicles have enough pigment to absorb the laser beam, which destroys the hair follicle. Thus, numerous treatment sessions are needed for a permanent result.
How Does It Work?
Laser light passes through your outer skin to the melanin pigment in the hair follicle. This energy is absorbed by the follicle, heats it up and destroys it. Hair growth is delayed and when it does grow back, is often finer and lighter in color.
Unlike waxing, electrolysis and other hair removal methods, laser treatments are safe for any skin tone. However, some people might need a few extra treatments to achieve a desirable level of long-term hair reduction.
We ask you to shave the area to be treated prior to your session. Any hair above the surface will simply absorb and waste laser energy, keeping it from reaching the follicle and destroying it.
During treatment, your provider will glide the handpiece over your skin, flashing a rapid pulse of laser light in orderly lines. You might feel a sensation that feels like a rubber band snapping against your skin. This is normal and to be expected.
What Are the Side Effects?
Laser treatment is safe for most people, but it’s important to do your research and find a health care professional who is licensed by Health Canada for the procedure you’re interested in. Ask about eye protection, cooling, and detailed follow-up care.
The light energy from the laser goes through your skin and reaches the hair follicles, where it’s converted into heat and partially destroys them. Repeated treatments are necessary to get the desired results. You may experience some discomfort, but most people find the procedure to be less painful than needle electrolysis. You should avoid threading, plucking or waxing the area before a laser session. Some minor side effects include reddening, swelling and itching. Some lasers can cause bruising, but this is rare and usually temporary.
How Long Will It Take?
The laser destroys hair follicles that are in the growth phase, so multiple treatments will be required to achieve your desired result. The number of treatments varies depending on the area being treated; for example, an armpit may take 20 minutes while a full bikini might take 2 hours. It is important to follow the treatment plan recommended by your skin care professional, as missing a treatment will delay the results you are seeking.
Unlike other hair removal options such as waxing or shaving, laser treatments permanently reduce unwanted hair without causing irritation or ingrown hairs. You can expect your results to improve with every session. The results from the first Laser hair removal reduction treatment will be apparent within a few weeks, and over time your hair will grow back thinner and lighter. Some clients will require a few top-up sessions after completing the course to maintain their result. Please inform your skincare professional of any medication you are taking or medical conditions you have, as these may affect the outcome of your laser hair reduction treatment.
How Much Will It Cost?
Unwanted hair growth is one of the most common reasons people seek laser skincare treatment. The Light Sheer system offers permanent hair reduction using pulses of light that disable the melanin in the hair follicle, preventing regrowth of unwanted hair. It is a great alternative to waxing or shaving for people with darker skin.
Wrinkles, scars and sun spots can all be erased with a laser’s high-intensity light. Depending on the type of laser used, the cost can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, but it is much less than a facelift or a tummy tuck.
Spider veins, warts and tumors can also be removed with laser treatments. However, if a spider vein is on the face, electrosurgery — an electric needle that heats and shrinks blood vessels in the area — may be more effective and less expensive than lasers. A consultation with a trained professional is the best way to determine your treatment options and costs.