How Does Laser Technique Work?

The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment (melanin- that gives the hair its color) in the hair and is transmitted to the hair shaft which disrupts the hair root growth mechanism. The laser disrupts the hairs that are principally in the active growth phase at the time of treatment. Hair growth occurs in three distinct cycles. First, the active or growth cycle (Anagen); next, the dormant cycle (Catagen) and, finally, the fall-out or shedding cycle (Telogen). The use of laser technique is most effective during the growth cycle (Anagen). Melanin in the hair follicle absorbs the laser light and converts the light to heat. The heat, in turn, damages the follicle and destroys its ability to re-grow. It is important to treat each follicle during the growth cycle for maximum hair reduction.

Is the Treatment Painful?

The most common question that people have in mind is if the treatment is painful. When you get the treatment done at a well equipped clinic they use a special cooling system that lowers the temperature of the skin at the treatment site before, during, and after laser exposure. This ensures that the treatment is generally not painful and is well tolerated. Sometimes, a topical anesthetic cream may also be applied if the target area is sensitive.

However, there may be a few side effects like redness of the skin and mild swelling that lasts from an hour to twenty four hours. Sometimes the redness may extend upto a few days and there could be some grazing or \'scabbing\' which typically subsides over a short period of time.

How Often is the Treatment to be Repeated?

Laser treatment retards the growth of hair follicles in the anagen (growth) cycle at the time of treatment. Obviously all hair follicles are not at this stage at the same time. Therefore, for a permanent result, you would require approximately four to six sittings. Each sitting varies from 10 minutes to 1 hour depending on the body part and hair type being treated. .

Are the Results Permanent?

Results of laser hair removal vary greatly with skin and hair type. Studies have shown that many patients can achieve permanent hair loss of up to 85-90% hair growth in future is lighter and softer.

Laser Hair Removal Clinic – What to Check Before Visiting One? 

The first thing you need to check before zeroing on a laser hair removal clinic is whether they are certified and approved to carry out the treatment. Also you need to be sure about the staff that will be performing the actual process. The staff should be adequately trained and experienced.

Apart from the qualification of the staff it is also important that the clinic maintain adequate cleanliness and hygiene. Do an extensive research on the clinic whose services you want to avail of; as the procedure is a delicate one, with possible risks to your health, so you should choose a legitimate practitioner.

You could also check with a person who has already availed services from the clinic. Another factor that you should keep in mind is that if the clinic offers unbelievably low prices then you must think twice before availing their services. 

The Cost Factor 

The cost of the procedure would largely depend on the clinic’s location. If the clinic is located in city\'s downtown area and caters to high-end clientele, then most likely it would charge higher than the one located in your town. Certain clinics offer discounts for if the entire amount is paid in advance. You could do some research online on the laser hair removal clinics before deciding on one and check about their discount policies or any packages that they might offer from time-to-time.

The pricing would also depend on the body area and the type of hair growth you have. For example, the bikini area would cost slightly higher than the underarms.

Most clinics base their rates on case-by-case basis and consider each customer unique.

It\'s advisable to consult and check with your prospective clinic in advance so that you get a realistic cost estimate of your laser hair removal procedure.