Tips For Getting The Best Results From Laser Hair Removal Treatments

Introduction More than 300,000 cosmetic procedures

are performed in the country each year. This includes both surgical and non-surgical procedures. More than $500 million is spent on these treatments annually.

Laser treatments for hair removal have been growing every year.

Introduction The number of procedures performed

increased by over 30 percent between 2002 and 2003.

Laser treatments are now fast and easy for trained technicians or doctors to perform. Anyone who has decided to undergo laser hair removal can take several steps in order to get the most from the treatment.

Consultation One of the best ways to get the most out

of a laser treatment is to listen and ask questions during the initial consultation.

The consultation is the meeting where the doctor or technician explains how the treatment will work.

Consultation Patients will be assessed in order to

determine whether the treatment will be effective.

Not all people respond to laser treatments in the same way. Asking questions will make certain that laser treatment is the right option.

Shave Before the Procedure Laser hair removal works by eliminating

the follicles in the skin. The follicles are the source of growing hair. It is helpful to shave the areas that will be treated before the procedure.

A new or very sharp razor will remove the most hair possible. Shaving allows the laser to reach the follicles more easily.

Shave Before the Procedure It also reduces any discomfort from

certain types of lasers.

Although the procedure will still work even if a person does not shave beforehand, the laser will have to work through the hairs above the skin before it can reach the follicles.

Do Not Remove Hairs by the Root A few stray hairs might remain after the

treatment. Some hairs might actually start to grow back as well.

It is important to avoid using methods such as plucking that pull the hairs out of the follicles by the root.

Do Not Remove Hairs by the Root The growth of the hair indicates that the

follicle is still active. Pulling the hairs out will stimulate new growth.

The growth will be very visible since there are few other hairs in the treated area. The best way to deal with stray hairs is to shave with a normal razor.

Do Not Remove Hairs by the Root Hairs will not grow back as aggressively or

visibly if they are shaved away instead of plucked.

Communicate During the Procedure It is important to communicate with the

doctor or technician performing the laser hair removal.

Patients should report any sensations such as tingling, pain or numbness.

Communicate During the Procedure These sensations could indicate that the

laser needs to be adjusted to be more or less intense.

Communicating during the procedure will provide guidance so that the hair removal meets the expectations of the patient.

Remain Hydrated Anyone undergoing laser hair removal will

want to remain hydrated before and after the procedure.

Water will help the skin to remain supple and resilient.

Remain Hydrated It improves the appearance of the skin

and protects the surrounding tissue during the treatment.

It is also helpful to avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol because these substances cause dehydration.