Do you have laser hair removal questions? Well we’ve got answers! Browse the questions below to get answers to some of the most common questions about laser hair removal! From the cost of laser hair removal to laser hair removal recovery!
Q: What is laser hair removal?
A: Laser hair removal is a quick, outpatient procedure in which uses powerful laser energy to prevent hair growth. It works by emitting a laser that passes harmlessly through the patient’s skin and into the hair follicle. The targeted hair follicle is then heated and damaged, thereby inhibiting any future hair growth.
Q: How much does laser hair removal cost?
A: The average cost of a laser hair removal varies depending on the location and amount of hair that the patient wants to remove. For example, the cost of laser hair removal can range from $150 USD to $250 USD per session for underarm hair removal, and $300 USD to $800 USD for back hair removal. It is also common for most patients to have three to six sessions to get rid of unwanted hair.
Q: What are the risks of laser hair removal?
A: The most common risks associated with laser hair removal are skin irritation and minor pigment changes. In rare cases, some patients may experience blisters or scarring.
Q: How can I prepare for laser hair removal?
A: To prepare for laser hair removal, it is recommended that you discontinue waxing or plucking your unwanted hair four to five weeks before your treatment. About 24 hours prior to your treatment, your physician may recommend that you shave the treatment area of all existing hair. By shaving, you’re reducing the amount of discomfort you may feel during the procedure and preventing your hair and skin from being burned by the laser.
Q: What can I expect during laser hair removal?
A: A laser hair removal treatment is usually very short. It can last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour depending on the target area. Before the procedure begins, your physician may apply an anesthetic cream to your skin, or recommend a mild pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) prior to the treatment to reduce any discomfort you may experience.
Q: What is the recovery time for laser hair removal?
A: After the procedure has been completed, your skin may appear red or irritated. Luckily, this lasts only a day or so. It’s also extremely important to avoid the sun or use sunblock for a few weeks after the procedure, and avoid any plucking or waxing of the treatment area.
Q: What can I expect after laser hair removal?
A: Immediately after the treatment you can apply cold compresses to the area to help alleviate any discomfort. Within a few weeks after the procedure, most patients may notice some new hair growth from the treated hair follicles that were inactive at the time. Because of this, most patients should expect to undergo multiple treatments. The overall results of each treatment rely greatly on an individual’s skin tone, hair type, and growth phase of the hair within the treatment area. Laser hair removal may not prevent hair from growing completely, but after multiple treatments, it can significantly reduce the amount of unwanted growth.
Q: What are the alternatives to laser hair removal?
A: Alternatives to laser hair removal include at-home waxing, plucking, hair bleaching, and chemical depilatory such as Nair, Magic Shave, and Veet.