Having unwanted hair on the face and body can be annoying, and most hair removal methods only get rid of hair for a short time. But if you are interested in long-term hair reduction, laser hair removal can give you silky smooth skin for a long time. But what is laser hair removal, and how does it work?
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses laser energy to remove unwanted hair. There are several hair removal technologies now available, including the BBL™ Sciton system. BBL™ Sciton is an advanced device that uses light technology to remove unwanted hair.
BBL Sciton is a versatile technology that is safe for use by people of all ages, and treatments can be customized based on hair color and texture. BBL has a large spot size, which allows for faster, more comfortable treatments.
Laser hair removal can be performed on almost any part of the body, but the most common treatment areas are the underarms, legs, back, and bikini area.
What To Expect With Laser Hair Removal?
The laser emits pulses of light that selectively target melanin (dark pigment) at the root of the hair follicle. The pigment absorbs the laser light and damages the hair-producing center of the follicle, leading to a reduction in hair growth. The treated hair falls out about one to two weeks after treatment.
Depending on the area being targeted, it can take anywhere from 6-10 laser hair removal sessions spaced 6 weeks apart to achieve the best results.
Patients may experience some discomfort during treatment, and the sensation is often compared to having a rubber band snapped against the skin.
The skin will look somewhat sunburned after laser hair removal but this should resolve within a short time, so there is no downtime after the procedure.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Take?
Small areas like the underarms take only a few minutes to treat, but larger areas like the back could take up to 1 hour.
Why Do You Need Multiple Laser Hair Removal Treatments?
Hair across the body grows in cycles, and lasers are only effective on hair in the anagen or growing phase when melanin is abundant. However, since hair in the treatment area may be at different stages of the growth cycle, only some of the follicles will be impacted during one session. Multiple sessions ensure better coverage and improve the effectiveness of the procedure.
Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?
Laser hair removal significantly reduces hair growth, but it will not get rid of unwanted hair permanently. Hairs will grow back in some areas, but the new hair will be finer and less dense than before. After the required number of hair removal treatments are complete, hair growth will be minimal.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Laser Hair Removal?
Individuals with dark, thick hair are ideal candidates for laser hair removal. Darker hair has more pigment, so it’s easier for the laser energy to target and destroy the hair follicle.
Laser hair removal may not work well for people with light hair as there is not enough melanin for the laser to target.
When laser hair removal was first developed, it did not work well on people with darker skin because of the risk of burns. However, due to advances in technology, several lasers are now available that can perform hair removal on all skin types. If you are interested in laser hair removal, be sure to consult with a qualified, licensed provider with significant experience. It’s also essential to verify that the provider has the laser that is best suited for your skin type.