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A Guide to Laser Hair Removal
Are you tired of shaving, tweezing or waxing unwanted hair? Have you considered laser hair removal but aren’t sure if it’s right for you? Are you worried that it may have damaging effects on your skin? If you answered yes to any of those questions, this is for you! Laser hair removal is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in North America. Millions of people each year all over the world get tired of maintaining a hair-free body and turn to laser to permanently get rid of or significantly reduce the amount of hair on their bodies. So what exactly is laser hair removal, how does it work, what is the process like, how to prepare for treatment, what are the possible risks, and what are the advantages. Here is your complete guide to laser hair removal!
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal is defined as the removal of unwanted hair by means of exposure to pulses of laser light that destroy the hair follicle. Before becoming commercially available, laser hair removal had been performed experimentally for around 20 years. Yaletown Laser Centre offers one of the best laser hair removal services in Vancouver, BC
How does laser hair removal work?
The primary principle behind laser hair removal is the matching of specific wavelengths of light and pulse duration to maximize effects on targeted tissue while minimizing effect on surrounding tissue. Lasers are able to cause localized damage by selectively heating dark target matter, melanin, in the area that causes hair growth (the follicle) without heating the rest of the skin.
What does the process involve?
Depending on the laser or light source used, you may need to wear appropriate eyewear. A cool gel or special cooling device will also be used to protect the outer layers of the skin. This will also help the laser light penetrate the skin. The technician will then administer a pulse of light to the treatment area and closely monitor the area for several minutes to ensure the best setting were used and in order to make sure there were no bad reactions.
What should you do to prepare for treatment?
Because laser hair removal is much more than just “zapping” unwanted hair, you might want to double check your doctors credentials before allowing them to carry out the procedure. Laser hair removal is not without side effects and the last thing you want is damaged skin! If you are planning to get laser hair removal, you should limit plucking, waxing, and electrolysis treatments for six weeks before your laser treatment. Another thing to avoid for six weeks before and after treatment is sun exposure.
What are the risks?
If you go to a properly credentialed clinician or doctor, you should have no problems with your laser treatment. However, side effects do exist and include: blisters, swelling, redness, and scarring.
What are the advantages?
- No more plucking, waxing, or shaving
- Long lasting results
- Significantly reduced or completely eliminated unwanted hair
- Quick and painless treatment
- Safe and non-surgical treatment
- Very few risks or side effects
Consultations Available Now
Take the first step. Get your questions answered and find out which treatment option is best for your personal situation by meeting with one of our knowledgeable medical staff at Yaletown Laser Centre for an in-person consultation.
Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our experienced team members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.