Why is laser hair removal more effective than waxing or shaving?
Traditional hair removal techniques, such as shaving, plucking and waxing, provide only temporary results. Some physicians do not recommend waxing for persons who suffer from diabetes, varicose veins or have poor circulation as they are more susceptible to infection. Laser Hair removal safely removes unwanted hair without damaging the delicate pores and structures of the skin. The laser emits a beam of light that passes through the skin to the hair follicles where it is absorbed. The laser energy is transformed into heat. This destroys the hair follicle leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. The laser beam can not penetrate past dermis (second layer of skin). This laser beam is unable to reach any internal organs so it is completely safe.
After a series of treatments the follicles become sterile which prevents the reproduction of further hair growth.
Hair will grow back lighter and finer with each treatment. Skin will remain smooth and hair free for up to 6 week between treatments.
It takes anywhere between 6 to 8 treatments to achieve up to 90% hair loss. 2-3 Maintenance visits a year is recommended.
Laser hair removal is much more effective solution.
What problems do some people experience from shaving, that they wouldn't with laser hair removal?
Some of the most common drawbacks of waxing are ingrown hairs, infections, red bumps, and minor bleeding.
Hair that has been cut by a razor looks thicker because it has been cut at a sharp angle. For the same reason it feels stubbly as the hair starts to grow back. The stubble can make the hair seem thicker. Because a shaved hair has a blunt end, and because hair is often darker near the root, there is a common belief that shaving causes hair to grow back thicker, faster and more noticeable. Regrowth usually occurs within 2-3 days.
There are other drawbacks, such as red shaving bumps. These often occur because there are oil glands attached to nerve endings, which are easily irritated.
Razor Burn, this can occur when you're pressing too hard or if you shave with a blunt blade or with a blade that’s been left open allowing bacteria to inlay.
Why you won't get ingrowns from laser hair removal (and why laser treatment help treat folliculitis a condition commonly known as ingrown hairs).
Ingrown hairs usually resemble acne and are distinguished by raised, red bumps which can occasionally flare-up, or whiteheads. As the hair grows under the skin, it blocks the pore and allows bacteria to breed, therefore creating a pimple.
Laser passes through the skin to the hair follicle, where the follicle absorbs the heat destroying the hair and any bacteria.
Lasers are successfully used to target specific structures within the skin, without causing damage to surrounding tissue. This provides gentle, non-invasive and long-lasting results.
Why is the skin smoother from laser hair removal?
Processes such as waxing, plucking, tweezing, or close shaving routinely can cause Folliculitis (skin condition in which there are inflamed hair follicles). This condition results in a tender red spot, often with an angry surface pimple. Using Laser on the infected area will help the healing process and kill the bacteria in the follicle. . It is common practice for doctors to recommend laser treatment. It’s the only medical way to treat ingrown hairs.
Laser hair removal actually destroys the hair at the root, and over time will eliminate all hair growth in the area treated leaving your skin silky smooth, no ingrowns, no scaring, no marking. It takes several treatments which are every 6 weeks, please be patient because the end result is worth it.
Remember to never pick at an ingrown hair as you will cause more infection and that could become quite serious.
How effective is Laser on larger parts of the body? (legs, arms)
Laser hair removal is a technique that makes it possible to rapidly treat a very large area of the body all within the one session and gradually deteriorating the hair.
Areas such as arms and legs are quickest to respond to the treatment.
Winter is the best time of the year to start laser treatment on large areas (minimum sun exposure). So by summer you can be free of unwanted hair and those painful ingrowns.
Can laser hair removal treat birthmarks/lesions?
Melanin is what gives our skin and hair its color. Pigmented lesions are dark in colour simply because melanin is abnormally concentrated in one area of the skin. High concentrations of melanin can be due to various factors. Some types are present at birth, but most occur with age or as a result of overexposure to the sun.
Not all birthmarks/lesions can be treated by laser however some will achieve excellent results.
You will need a consultation. Your therapist will examine the area that you are wanting to treat and provide you with an assessment and the expected success of the treatment.
I have a hormonal problem. Would laser work for me?
Females who are experiencing PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) may experience slower results unless they receive medical support along with the laser treatment. However after 4-6 treatments they will notice dramatic reduction. Your hair will grow slower and much finer.
These female clients can achieve excellent results over the entire body, but to remain hair free on the face, "touchup" treatments are required every three (3) to six (6) months throughout life.
Why is it a great option for men?
Laser hair removal can certainly be beneficial for men. Unwanted back hair, thick or excessive chest hair can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. More and more men with excessive hair feel self-conscious in today’s “beach culture” and therefore search for more effective and longer lasting hair removal solutions.
There are many solutions that are available on the market today. However, Tweezing or waxing can be impractical and often results in unattractive breakouts or infections. Shaving leads to the quick reappearance of stubble. Laser hair removal is becoming increasingly more popular. The treatment is simple and effective offering long term results.
Men who dislike shaving can also benefit from laser facial hair removal. In addition to eliminating the need to shave every day it will also prevent irritation and the development of folliculitis, in which one or more hair follicles become inflamed.
We recommend at least 6-8 treatments, 6 weeks apart for a significant reduction, providing you are committed to your treatment every 6 weeks. However, if you wish to achieve up to 80% hair loss, you may require up to 12-15 treatments due to the higher levels of testosterone in the body.
Choose Genuine Laser
To achieve best results be sure to choose genuine Laser for hair removal. GentleLASE delivers a laser beam on a specific wavelength. The energy that is used is much more effective and safer in destroying the hair follicle.
IPL/ SPL(Pulse Light Systems) machines deliver a wide range of wavelengths and have a higher risk in damaging skin at higher energy levels. These wavelengths only operate at a superficial depth.
By: Ellen Alexander
