How Safe Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal has come up as a relief for people looking for a long-term solution to the problem of unwanted body and facial hair. Shaving and waxing are considered troublesome, time-consuming, and tiring.

Thus, most people look for solutions that will allow them to take a break from removing their hair too often. Laser hair removal Melbourne has become an increasingly popular treatment among both men and women for this reason.

However, many are doubtful about the safety of the procedure. Since the laser is a high-intensity light beam, people consider it harmful to the skin. If you have similar suspicions, you need to clear your doubts about the treatment. Let us help you understand how safe it is to undergo laser hair removal.

How Safe is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is completely safe when performed by a trained, qualified, and experienced laser practitioner using a contemporary laser system. During the procedure, a laser is directed on the area to be treated, absorbed by the melanin present in the hair.

The heat generated by the laser beam destroys the hair follicles or the root of the hair that are responsible for new growth. The damage caused to the root ensures no regrowth for a long time. Since the laser is highly targeted and works only on the pigment, there is no damage to surrounding skin tissue.

Traditionally, laser hair removal was not considered safe for darker skin tones. However, with the advent of advanced laser systems, every skin tone is eligible to undergo laser hair removal.

The only situation where laser hair removal is not possible is when the colour of the hair is grey or light blonde. The laser does not work on light hair as there is no melanin present in them. It can be safely used on both men and women with thick or thin hair growth.

Only pregnant women have been exempted from the list of eligible candidates because of the hormonal changes taking place in the body during pregnancy. Dermatologists suggest waiting for a few months after the delivery to try laser hair removal.

Some of the Minor Side Effects That Affect People

It is common to have some side effects after undergoing laser treatment. These are temporary and go away within a few days. You can avoid them by taking care of your treated skin as directed by the practitioner. Here are some of the side effects that are prevalent among patients.

Inflammation

Some redness and swelling of the treated area are common. To reduce it, the practitioner will apply a cold compress immediately after the procedure to soothe the skin. It goes away within a day or two, and during this time, you must keep the treated area away from hot water, sun exposure, cosmetics, and any other chemicals.

Pigmentation

Slight changes in skin colour after the session are normal and disappear in a few hours. Usually, people with dark skin witness light spots on the treated area and those with fair skin witness dark spots in the region. They fade away without leaving any permanent spots.

Scabbing

In some cases, the treated skin may develop a thin crust or appear to be scabbing. Consult your practitioner for an ointment that will help you to heal the problem.

Pain

During the treatment, you will feel a slight pain that can be compared to the pain felt while getting a tattoo or a rubber band snapping against your skin. However, most specialists provide their patients with a topical anaesthetic to reduce the discomfort.

Myths about Laser Hair Removal

A variety of rumours have been floating around related to laser hair that makes people sceptical. Here are the facts that will clear your doubts.

Blisters or Burning

Laser hair removal does not cause blisters or burning of the skin. It is caused only when the practitioner is not qualified for the task and makes mistakes with the settings of the laser system. Such blunders can also lead to scarring. Thus, make sure you choose the best skin clinic for the treatment.

Infertility

Many people fear that undergoing laser therapy can lead to infertility. However, it is far from the truth. The laser beam reaches only up to the epidermis and does not penetrate deeper. It does not affect the internal organs and can be performed in any part of the body, including the bikini line.

Cancer

There is a sentiment that laser treatment can cause cancer. However, it is not true, as the laser system used for the procedure works on the hair follicles without harming the skin. There is no proof about the treatment causing the lethal disease.

Conclusion

Laser hair removal in Melbourne is the safest known procedure for long-term hair removal. It offers lasting results with the requirement for annual or half-yearly touch-ups. The only thing that matters is that you must pick a reputed skin clinic and follow the practitioner’s instructions.