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FIVE REASONS WHY LASER HAIR REMOVAL Is Great for Reducing Unwanted Hair

man looking at his hair

As the summer months approach, many are actively seeking effective methods to minimize unwanted hair and achieve their best look. In our conversation with Jadi Bibitaliyeva, a Licensed Aesthetician at Vitalogy Skincare’s Harker Heights location, we gained valuable insights into the world of laser hair removal, a popular method of long-term hair reduction. Jadi addressed our questions about this procedure and highlighted five reasons why it stands out as an excellent option.

Q: How does laser hair removal work? 

Laser hair removal is a noninvasive technique that uses highly concentrated light to penetrate hair follicles and reduce future hair growth. The melanin in the hair follicles absorbs the lasers’energy, which is then converted into heat, damaging the hair follicle while leaving the surrounding skin largely unaffected. The extent of the damage depends on various factors, including the color and thickness of the hair, as well as the type of laser used. Once the root has been destroyed or damaged, hair growth is reduced, and the treated area remains smooth and stubble-free.

Q: What are five reasons laser hair removal is a good treatment option? 

1.      Treatments do not take long: The laser emits pulses of light that target multiple hair follicles simultaneously, allowing for quick treatment of larger areas. This makes it faster than electrolysis, which typically treats one hair follicle at a time.

2.      Eliminates ingrown hairs: Ingrown hairs are a common problem with shaving or waxing. When the laser destroys the hair follicle, it prevents hair from growing back in a way that causes it to curl under the skin.

3.      Precision: Laser technology allows for precise targeting of specific areas without damaging the surrounding skin. It can effectively treat small or large areas, such as the face, legs, bikini line, underarms, or back.

4.      It saves time and money: Once you undergo a series of laser hair removal sessions, you can experience long periods without needing regular hair removal. This convenience saves time and effort in the long run.

5.      Long-lasting results: Laser hair removal provides long-term reduction or permanent hair removal. While it may not completely eliminate all hair, it significantly reduces hair growth, and the results can last for months or even years.

Q: Are multiple treatments needed? 

Yes, you will need multiple treatments for each area. Hair grows in cycles, and not all hairs are in the active growth phase simultaneously. For this reason, multiple treatment sessions are usually necessary to target hair follicles in different growth stages. Sessions are typically spaced several weeks apart, with the average number of treatments being six to nine in any given area. 

Q: How do I prepare for a laser hair removal treatment? 

It is essential to avoid plucking, waxing, or bleaching for six weeks prior to treatment to preserve the hair’s root and pigment. This is imperative for the success of the laser treatment. Your laser professional will ask you to shave the area to be treated the day or night before your appointment. Lastly, you must avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks before your session and ensure no active exposure or tan is present when you arrive.

Q: Can anyone take advantage of laser hair removal? 

With some exceptions, most people can take advantage of laser hair removal. Certain medical conditions may make it unsuitable or require special precautions. Additionally, certain medications, like isotretinoin (Accutane), can make the skin more sensitive to the laser’s effects, so it’s important to inform your provider about any medications or health conditions you have during your consultation.

Q: Are the results permanent? 

Results depend on how thick and dense the hair is in the treated area. Although reduction is achieved with every treatment, permanent hair reduction is possible with several sessions, though not guaranteed.

Q: Can laser hair removal be used to remove facial hair? 

Laser hair removal is a safe treatment that can permanently and effectively remove facial hair. It is an excellent way of getting rid of ingrown hairs and razor burn that comes from shaving in men, and it avoids the harmful effects that waxing can have on your face. It is important to mention that lasers cannot treat fine, lightly colored vellus hair, also known as peach fuzz or baby hair. This is intended for darker, thicker hairs that typically grow in places like the chin or upper lip. 

Q: What other areas of the body are the best for laser hair removal? 

Laser hair removal can work on any body part you wish to remove hair from. It is especially effective on the bikini, lip, chin, back, and underarm areas.

Q: How do I care for my skin after laser hair removal? 

Keep the treated area clean and dry, avoid sun exposure to reduce the chance of dark or light spots, and avoid excessive sweating and heat for 24 hours post-treatment. Protect your skin by using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

About the Author: Zhadyra Bibitaliyeva, Licensed Aesthetician – Zhadyra, known as Jadi, holds two bachelor’s degrees, one in economic management and one in construction engineering. Her struggles with severe acne sparked her interest in dermatology. Jadi enrolled at the Texas Laser & Aesthetics Academy, becoming a Licensed Aesthetician and a Senior Laser Hair Removal Technician. Jadi is also certified in SkinPen®, Intense Pulse Light (IPL), BroadBand® Light (BBL), laser resurfacing and CoolSculpting®. She enjoys spending time with her family and dog when she is not helping someone with their skin care goals. Jadi loves continuing her education by learning all about new skin care products, ingredients, and techniques.

Since 2007, Vitalogy Skincare has served our Central Texas community’s dermatological needs with best-in-class experts, including Board-Certified Dermatologists, Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeons, and Licensed Aestheticians. Visit VitalogySkincare.com to learn more about their medical, cosmetic, and surgical services available at Bastrop, Burnet, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Harker Heights, Marble Falls, and San Marcos.

Originally published “Five Reasons Why Laser Hair Removal Is Great for Reducing Unwanted Hair ” 
(July 1, 2023) Edible Austin