Laser hair removal is a process of removing hair from areas of the skin that are visible to the naked eye. It employs a high energy laser beam that is aimed at targeted areas of the skin. Upon application, the energy in the beam is converted into heat energy that goes right to the base of the hair shaft. The hair is burnt entirely, and it falls off on its own.
Laser hair removal may be the only semi-permanent or permanent method of hair removal in the world today. However, do read up on the following sections before you decide that this is the procedure you will most certainly employ for yourself.
Know this about laser hair removal:
#1 It’s not for everybody!
Though laser hair removal is often touted as the be-all-and-end-all solution for those looking for permanent hair removal, the truth is that it is not recommended for every person. Besides, only a licenced practitioner can administer the treatment, because it requires a skilled pair of hands to avoid burning the skin or removing more hair than necessary. Always approach the best laser hair removal doctors in Muscat to get an overview of the treatment, what it entails, how to take care of the skin after the procedure is completed, if there is the possibility of side-effects, and so on. The doctor will first take a skin profile and take a look at any medications you might be on currently. As a rule of thumb, those suffering from tanning, rashes and boils cannot undergo the treatment till the problem is resolved. Those suffering from conditions like vitiligo, leukoderma, eczema and psoriasis are not recommended laser hair removal at all.
#2 Expect some side effects – but don’t worry about them.
The doctor should inform you about the potential side effects of undergoing hair removal by using a laser beam. These include, but are not restricted to, redness, soreness, localised inflammation, and even peeling in the days immediately following the procedure. However, these side effects fade away in a few days, and you will experience more relief as each day passes. Do inform your doctor if any of these symptoms still persist a fortnight after the procedure, or intensify in nature. Also be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions on post-procedure care. Do not expose the treated skin to direct sunlight and do not undergo tanning for a month after the treatment. Meanwhile, use only doctor-recommended moisturiser on the treated areas to keep the skin hydrated and soft. You must also not wear clingy clothes and touch the treated skin when not necessary to do so. Shower in cool water and avoid using harsh soap.
#3 You might need repeat sessions.
Laser hair removal is often touted as a permanent method of removing hair. However, most women experience a hair regrowth in a few months after treatment – albeit, the hair growth is sparser than before. The regrown hair is also finer. The whole purpose of laser hair removal is that it eliminates the hair from the shaft by burning it with a laser beam. Thus, the hair shaft must rebuild itself from scratch to grow again. This takes quite a while, and the hair may not be as strong as thick as before. This results in sparser hair regrowth, which makes the hair easier to remove. However, you might need a few repeat sessions with the laser beam if you are looking at permanently hair-free skin. Your doctor can advise on the frequency of repeat sessions, so be ready with all your questions on the same. We urge you to do your due research before opting for this method of hair removal. Your doctor can clear your doubts about the procedure, and advise you on going ahead with it – or not. If you are sceptical about the side effects and whether your skin is suitable for it, you can explore other options for hair removal (waxing, depilatory cream, epilators, shaving). Do note that no other method of hair removal ensures permanent hair-free skin. Of all the popular methods of hair removal, waxing keeps hair away the longest – for up to three weeks in some cases.