Laser Hair Removal – Its Working and Precautions
For almost 20 years, laser epilation went through various experiments, tests, and development before it actually found its way into the commercial market and over time into public acceptance. Laser hair removal in its basic form is a light based method that removes hair. In the world of dermatology, the efficacy of laser hair removal is widely established and one can see a whole lot of laser hair removal salons and centres offering this treatment option for body hair removal.
How does it work?
Every process has a foundation or basic principle around which it functions. Selective photothermolysis (SPTL) is the primary principle that forms the basis for laser hair removal. What laser treatment is actually doing is that it is selectively heating melanin, in a targeted area, which is responsible for the growth of the hair follicle. The rest of the skin isn't heated. Dark objects have light absorption properties, thus laser energy is absorbed by the dark pigment - melanin. However, the speed and intensity of this absorption process is much more than normal. The beam travels through the hair shaft destroying it in the process.
The selective approach of the process of laser hair removal means that it can work best only on dark hair, that is, either black or brown coloured hair.
Its sessions and side effects
The process of laser hair removal is conducted in sessions. The hair and skin colour, the amount of hair, and the sex of a person determine the number of sessions required for long-term reduction of hair. Typically, a series of multiple treatments is required; usually 5-7, but the number could go up to 12.
It’s important to understand that fine or light hair cannot be targeted by laser hair removal. Moreover, laser offers a long term solution for hair removal but is by no means a permanent solution. It is usually very safe but at times some side effects can be seen which include, scarring. One could also experience a limited amount of discomfort during the process of laser hair removal.
Precautions - Before and After
There are precautions that must be maintained both pre and post laser hair removal. It’s proven to be safe and without any associated side effects, however, side effects are always a possibility. The precautions that you take will go a long way in minimizing the associated risks.
Before you begin laser hair removal, it’s important that the area, which is going to be the subject of treatment, should not be plucked or waxed. This precaution needs to be maintained many weeks prior to the commencement of laser treatment. There might be a case wherein the laser hair removal expert might prescribe a dosage of antibiotic or antiviral medications. This medication must be taken in the required dosage without fail. Moreover, it’s also important that you not tan your body or go out in the sun unprotected both many weeks prior to the laser hair removal procedure and also in the ensuing weeks following the procedure.
Before you actually to through the process of hair removal, it’s important that a skin test be conducted on a small portion of the body to know whether you are sensitive to laser or not. After the treatment many Doctors advise the use of a hydrating cream. This is essential for keeping the skin hydrated. This facilitates the recovery of the skin. Post laser treatment one must also avoid direct exposure to the sun.
Post treatment if you suffer from pain, swelling or any other kind of side effects, it would be prudent to get in touch with your Physician on an immediate basis.
Author of this article provides information on Permanent laser hair removal, Rio Scanning Laser and Other ways of laser hair removal. Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/skin-care-articles/laser-hair-removal-its-working-and-precautions-1286387.html