Several wavelengths of laser energy have been used for hair removal, from visible light to near-infrared radiation. These lasers are usually defined by the lasing medium used to create the wavelength (measured in nanometers (nm)):
* Argon: 488 or 514.5 nm (no longer used for hair removal)
* Ruby: 694 nm (no longer used for hair removal; not safe on most skin types as it frequently produces side effects such as pigmentary changes (lightening or darkening of the skin) or worse for patients of all but white skin.[citation needed]
* Alexandrite: 755 nm (most effective, but safest on light skin)
* Pulsed diode array: 810 nm (for light to medium type skin)
* Nd:YAG: 1064 nm (for darker skin; Yag is capable of treating all six skin colors. However, there is not sufficient evidence that this laser can produce effective long-term hair removal)
Pulsewidth is an important consideration. It has been observed in some published studies that longer pulse widths may be safer for darker skin. However, shorter wavelengths may be more effective in removing hair.
Spot size, or the width of the laser beam, affects treatment. Theoretically, the width of the ideal beam is about four times as wide as the target is deep. Hair removal lasers have a round spot about the size of your finger (8-18 mm). Larger spot sizes help make treatments faster and more effective.
Fluence or energy level is another important consideration. Fluence is measured in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²). It's important to get treated at high enough settings to cause permanent damage to the hair follicles.
Repetition rate is believed to have a cumulative effect, based on the concept of thermal relaxation time. Shooting two or three pulses at the same target with a specific delay between pulses can cause a slight improvement in the heating of an area. This may increase the "kill rate" for each treatment slightly.
Epidermal cooling has been determined to allow higher fluences and reduce pain and side effects, especially in darker skin. Four types of cooling have been developed:
* Clear gel: usually chilled
* Contact cooling: through a window cooled by circulating water or internal cryogen.
* Cryogen spray: immediately before/after the laser pulse
* Air cooling: forced cold air at -34 degrees C (Zimmer Cryo 5 unit)
Multiple treatments, usually 6-8, but as much as 12 depnding on the type of hair you have and skin color have been shown in numerous studies to provide long-term reduction of hair. Current parameters suggest a series of treatments spaced at 4-6 weeks apart for most areas, although the timing of treatments has still not been standardized.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Electrolysis
Electrology is the practice of electrical depilation to permanently remove human hair. The actual process of removing the hair is referred to as electrolysis. The practitioner slides a hair-thin metal probe into each hair follicle. Proper insertion does not puncture the skin. Electricity is delivered to the follicle through the probe, which causes localized damage to the areas that generate hairs, either through the formation of caustic lye (galvanic method), overheating (thermolysis method), or both (blend method).
Three methods or "modalities" are used in electrology. Galvanic, Thermolysis, and Blend all have their own merits, and one method is not better than another. The success depends on the skill of the electrologist, the type of hair being removed, the condition of the skin and the pain threshold of the client. All three methods, when properly performed, can be thorough at destroying the hair matrix cells, and leaving follicles incapable of regrowing hair.
Galvanic
This modality is named after Luigi Galvani and uses a person's body as an electrolytic cell. Galvanic electrolysis was first reported in the medical literature by ophthalmologist Charles Michel in 1875 to remove ingrown eyelashes in patients with trichiasis. [1] A galvanic epilator is essentially a positive ground power supply that delivers 0-3 milliamperes through the body. The follicular probe is the cathode of an electrolytic cell. Sodium hydroxide formed at the cathode by the process of chemical electrolysis kills the hair matrix cells. Modern galvanic epilators automatically adjust the voltage to maintain constant current.
Thermolysis
Another method is known as thermolysis, RF, shortwave or diathermy. Thermolysis was developed in the 1920s and first reported in medical literature by Henri Bordier. [2] A thermolytic epilator is essentially a radio transmitter, usually with an output of about 0-8 watts at a frequency of 13.56 MHz. RF energy emanates from the probe tip to tissue within about a millimeter. Thermolysis works by heating the hair matrix cells to about 48°C (118.4° Degree Fahrenheit), causing electrocoagulation.
Blend
Galvanic and thermolysis are often combined in a method known as blend, developed by Arthur Hinkel in 1948, which uses both RF and direct current, combining many of the advantages of galvanic and thermolysis. [3] All three of these methods use a metal probe 50 to 150 µm (0.002 to 0.006 inches) in diameter which is inserted into the hair follicle to the depth of the dermal papilla or hair matrix, which is the site of formation of hair from highly mitotic and keratinized cells.
Three methods or "modalities" are used in electrology. Galvanic, Thermolysis, and Blend all have their own merits, and one method is not better than another. The success depends on the skill of the electrologist, the type of hair being removed, the condition of the skin and the pain threshold of the client. All three methods, when properly performed, can be thorough at destroying the hair matrix cells, and leaving follicles incapable of regrowing hair.
Galvanic
This modality is named after Luigi Galvani and uses a person's body as an electrolytic cell. Galvanic electrolysis was first reported in the medical literature by ophthalmologist Charles Michel in 1875 to remove ingrown eyelashes in patients with trichiasis. [1] A galvanic epilator is essentially a positive ground power supply that delivers 0-3 milliamperes through the body. The follicular probe is the cathode of an electrolytic cell. Sodium hydroxide formed at the cathode by the process of chemical electrolysis kills the hair matrix cells. Modern galvanic epilators automatically adjust the voltage to maintain constant current.
Thermolysis
Another method is known as thermolysis, RF, shortwave or diathermy. Thermolysis was developed in the 1920s and first reported in medical literature by Henri Bordier. [2] A thermolytic epilator is essentially a radio transmitter, usually with an output of about 0-8 watts at a frequency of 13.56 MHz. RF energy emanates from the probe tip to tissue within about a millimeter. Thermolysis works by heating the hair matrix cells to about 48°C (118.4° Degree Fahrenheit), causing electrocoagulation.
Blend
Galvanic and thermolysis are often combined in a method known as blend, developed by Arthur Hinkel in 1948, which uses both RF and direct current, combining many of the advantages of galvanic and thermolysis. [3] All three of these methods use a metal probe 50 to 150 µm (0.002 to 0.006 inches) in diameter which is inserted into the hair follicle to the depth of the dermal papilla or hair matrix, which is the site of formation of hair from highly mitotic and keratinized cells.
Sugaring
Sugaring is a method of hair removal that has been in use for thousands of years This ancient art goes back to 1900 BC when a hairless and smooth body was considered the standard of youth, beauty and innocence for women in Egypt. Today, this art has been revived because of new styles, sports and trends where smooth hairless skin is desired.[citation needed]
Two main methods exist. The Strip Method, uses a paper or fabric strip to remove the sugar (and hairs). This is very similar to waxing. The Hand Method, does not use any paper or fabric strips to remove the sugar, rather a flicking action is used by the therapist to remove the sugar and hairs.
Sugaring can be less painful because it only sticks to the hair (wax will also attach to the skin.) Nevertheless, as with other hair removal methods, there is some risk of skin irritation, sensitivity, or reaction. Though the process can leave a sticky mess, sugar is soluble in water and therefore sugaring involves a relatively easy cleanup with warm water.
Two main methods exist. The Strip Method, uses a paper or fabric strip to remove the sugar (and hairs). This is very similar to waxing. The Hand Method, does not use any paper or fabric strips to remove the sugar, rather a flicking action is used by the therapist to remove the sugar and hairs.
Sugaring can be less painful because it only sticks to the hair (wax will also attach to the skin.) Nevertheless, as with other hair removal methods, there is some risk of skin irritation, sensitivity, or reaction. Though the process can leave a sticky mess, sugar is soluble in water and therefore sugaring involves a relatively easy cleanup with warm water.
Hair Removal - Forums
Hair is normally removed for social and sexual reasons related to the social role of hair in human society. Many cultures have an aesthetic "ideal" amount of hair for males and females. People whose hair violates such standards may experience real or perceived problems with social acceptance.
Many men in Western cultures shave their facial hair, so only a minority of men have a beard, even though fast-growing facial hair must be shaved daily to achieve a clean-shaven or hairless look. Some men shave because they cannot grow a "full" beard (generally defined as an even density from cheeks to neck), because beard color is different from scalp hair color, or because it grows in many directions, making a groomed look difficult. Some men shave because their beards are very coarse, causing itchiness and irritation. Some men grow a beard from time to time to change their appearance.
In many cultures, particularly North American and Western European, it became increasingly common during the 20th century[2] for women to remove some or all of their body hair, due to societal values that consider it unattractive and/or not feminine (see gender role), or as a matter of practising good hygiene. People may also remove some or all of their pubic hair for aesthetic or sexual reasons. Adult film stars are well known for this practice. Men may also practice this, but not as commonly. In a sexual context, pubic hair removal is done to increase visual exposure of the genitalia and/or facilitate access to the genital area by removing the barrier of hair.
Some women in Western cultures choose not to remove hair from their bodies as an act of defiance against what they believe to be an oppressive ritual. Others choose not to remove hair simply because they have no desire to.
Some men shave their heads, either as a fashion statement, because they find a shaved head preferable to the appearance of male pattern baldness, or in order to attain enhanced cooling of the skull (particularly for people suffering from hyperhidrosis). A much smaller number of women also shave their heads as fashion or political statements.
Some women also shave their heads for cultural or social reasons. In India, tradition required widows in some sections of the society to shave their heads as part of being ostracized, the outlawed custom is still infrequently encountered mostly in rural areas, the society at large and the government are working to end the practice of ostracizing widows.
In art paintings or carvings from ancient times, one can often see women portrayed with no pubic hair: pubic hair was linked to sexual acts and desires in the general mindset, and thus it was deemed improper and impure in a public painting. This may have influenced aesthetic views regarding the matter as well.
Many men in Western cultures shave their facial hair, so only a minority of men have a beard, even though fast-growing facial hair must be shaved daily to achieve a clean-shaven or hairless look. Some men shave because they cannot grow a "full" beard (generally defined as an even density from cheeks to neck), because beard color is different from scalp hair color, or because it grows in many directions, making a groomed look difficult. Some men shave because their beards are very coarse, causing itchiness and irritation. Some men grow a beard from time to time to change their appearance.
In many cultures, particularly North American and Western European, it became increasingly common during the 20th century[2] for women to remove some or all of their body hair, due to societal values that consider it unattractive and/or not feminine (see gender role), or as a matter of practising good hygiene. People may also remove some or all of their pubic hair for aesthetic or sexual reasons. Adult film stars are well known for this practice. Men may also practice this, but not as commonly. In a sexual context, pubic hair removal is done to increase visual exposure of the genitalia and/or facilitate access to the genital area by removing the barrier of hair.
Some women in Western cultures choose not to remove hair from their bodies as an act of defiance against what they believe to be an oppressive ritual. Others choose not to remove hair simply because they have no desire to.
Some men shave their heads, either as a fashion statement, because they find a shaved head preferable to the appearance of male pattern baldness, or in order to attain enhanced cooling of the skull (particularly for people suffering from hyperhidrosis). A much smaller number of women also shave their heads as fashion or political statements.
Some women also shave their heads for cultural or social reasons. In India, tradition required widows in some sections of the society to shave their heads as part of being ostracized, the outlawed custom is still infrequently encountered mostly in rural areas, the society at large and the government are working to end the practice of ostracizing widows.
In art paintings or carvings from ancient times, one can often see women portrayed with no pubic hair: pubic hair was linked to sexual acts and desires in the general mindset, and thus it was deemed improper and impure in a public painting. This may have influenced aesthetic views regarding the matter as well.
Hair Removal Types
* Depilation affects the part of the hair above the surface of the skin. The most common form of depilation is shaving. Another popular option is the use of chemical depilatories, which work by breaking the disulfide bonds that link the protein chains that give hair its strength, making the hair disintegrate.
* Epilation is removal of the entire hair, including the part below the skin, and is therefore longer-lasting. Methods include waxing, sugaring, epilation devices, lasers, threading, intense pulsed light or electrology. Hair is also sometimes removed by plucking with tweezers.
* Epilation is removal of the entire hair, including the part below the skin, and is therefore longer-lasting. Methods include waxing, sugaring, epilation devices, lasers, threading, intense pulsed light or electrology. Hair is also sometimes removed by plucking with tweezers.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Hair Removal Care
For women, laser hair removal is an easy option to remove unwanted hair. This procedure works equally well for men, and is definitely preferable to smelly hair removal creams, painful waxing, or constant shaving. If you've ever wanted to rid yourself permanently of unwanted hair, this is definitely a great way to accomplish your goal.
Safe for Large Areas of the Body
For most men, the areas where they want to have hair removed are large ones; the back, chest, and perhaps the legs. With laser hair removal, these large areas can be done quickly and easily. The laser procedure combines the precise accuracy of shaving with the long lasting qualities of electrolysis, making it much easier to keep large areas smooth and free of unwanted hair.
Since the laser systems work with cool lasers and lights, the procedure itself is less painful and uncomfortable and finished more quickly than with the needles used in electrolysis. This is important, since areas like the chest and back can be very sensitive. Since the lasers are not as invasive as needles, you are far less likely to suffer any real pain during and immediately after laser hair removal. While there will be some discomfort, most reputable doctors or practitioners offer a topical pain relieving cream to be applied before the hair removal begins, providing immediate relief.
Finding a Practitioner
While conducting your search for a doctor to do your laser hair removal procedure, call the offices of those doctors you are interested in and ask if they have worked with many male patients. When you find one who has, ask if you can then make an appointment to go in and talk to him, to ask any questions you may have about the procedure. Make sure you feel comfortable with the person performing the actual laser hair removal, as this will help to keep you calm before and during the procedure.
If you know any buddies or co-workers who have had laser hair removal done, ask them about their experiences and if they would recommend their doctor. Word of mouth is the best way to find really great services and those who offer them, so take advantage of others' experiences.
Justifying the Expense
While women seem to understand that beauty comes at a price, men are, by nature, more logical and practical creatures. Laser hair removal treatments can vary in cost, but the fact of it is that you'll be making an investment. And since this investment is such an important one, consider the fact that you are absolutely worth it!
Sit down and add up the costs of the alternative methods of hair removal. How many jars of hair removal cream, packages of razors or razor blades, or home waxing kits will you be purchasing over the course of your life? Not to mention the skin care creams and soothing balms you'll have to pick up to keep your skin feeling smooth after all of this abuse. Now look at the cost of laser hair removal. After just two or three treatments, you will have softer, smoother, hair free skin. Permanently. Compare the two price tags, and you'll agree that this one time investment in yourself is well worth the price.
After Care
Perhaps the most attractive selling point of laser hair removal is that your skin will require very little care after the procedure is done. The area that has been treated will be slightly red and very mildly uncomfortable, much like a mild sunburn. It is recommended that you wear sunscreen on the area for at least 48 hours after the treatment. You should also avoid tanning, either outside in the sun or in a tanning salon, for a minimum of two weeks after the procedure.
There won't be any oozing or bleeding or any open sores to look after, and there is no chance of nicks or cuts like those from a razor blade. Within two weeks, you'll notice that your skin is back to normal, but even better; it will be softer and rid of the unwanted hair!
Rest assured that many men have had this procedure done and been thrilled with the results. If you're still unsure, do a quick search online for "laser hair removal for men" and check out the articles and forums that are available to you for more information. Go into the procedure well-informed, knowing that you're taking care of yourself and your body with pride.
Safe for Large Areas of the Body
For most men, the areas where they want to have hair removed are large ones; the back, chest, and perhaps the legs. With laser hair removal, these large areas can be done quickly and easily. The laser procedure combines the precise accuracy of shaving with the long lasting qualities of electrolysis, making it much easier to keep large areas smooth and free of unwanted hair.
Since the laser systems work with cool lasers and lights, the procedure itself is less painful and uncomfortable and finished more quickly than with the needles used in electrolysis. This is important, since areas like the chest and back can be very sensitive. Since the lasers are not as invasive as needles, you are far less likely to suffer any real pain during and immediately after laser hair removal. While there will be some discomfort, most reputable doctors or practitioners offer a topical pain relieving cream to be applied before the hair removal begins, providing immediate relief.
Finding a Practitioner
While conducting your search for a doctor to do your laser hair removal procedure, call the offices of those doctors you are interested in and ask if they have worked with many male patients. When you find one who has, ask if you can then make an appointment to go in and talk to him, to ask any questions you may have about the procedure. Make sure you feel comfortable with the person performing the actual laser hair removal, as this will help to keep you calm before and during the procedure.
If you know any buddies or co-workers who have had laser hair removal done, ask them about their experiences and if they would recommend their doctor. Word of mouth is the best way to find really great services and those who offer them, so take advantage of others' experiences.
Justifying the Expense
While women seem to understand that beauty comes at a price, men are, by nature, more logical and practical creatures. Laser hair removal treatments can vary in cost, but the fact of it is that you'll be making an investment. And since this investment is such an important one, consider the fact that you are absolutely worth it!
Sit down and add up the costs of the alternative methods of hair removal. How many jars of hair removal cream, packages of razors or razor blades, or home waxing kits will you be purchasing over the course of your life? Not to mention the skin care creams and soothing balms you'll have to pick up to keep your skin feeling smooth after all of this abuse. Now look at the cost of laser hair removal. After just two or three treatments, you will have softer, smoother, hair free skin. Permanently. Compare the two price tags, and you'll agree that this one time investment in yourself is well worth the price.
After Care
Perhaps the most attractive selling point of laser hair removal is that your skin will require very little care after the procedure is done. The area that has been treated will be slightly red and very mildly uncomfortable, much like a mild sunburn. It is recommended that you wear sunscreen on the area for at least 48 hours after the treatment. You should also avoid tanning, either outside in the sun or in a tanning salon, for a minimum of two weeks after the procedure.
There won't be any oozing or bleeding or any open sores to look after, and there is no chance of nicks or cuts like those from a razor blade. Within two weeks, you'll notice that your skin is back to normal, but even better; it will be softer and rid of the unwanted hair!
Rest assured that many men have had this procedure done and been thrilled with the results. If you're still unsure, do a quick search online for "laser hair removal for men" and check out the articles and forums that are available to you for more information. Go into the procedure well-informed, knowing that you're taking care of yourself and your body with pride.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), is most commonly employed by medical practitioners and aestheticians working under the guidance of a physician, is a method of hair removal from the body involving the use of a specially constructed xenon flash lamp and focusing optics.
The Intense Pulsed Light hair removal process has become very popular due to its cheaper and faster procedure compared to laser hair removal, which is often more costly and time consuming. The comparison of effectiveness between Intense Pulsed Light and Laser Epilation is debated by scientists, equipment manufacturers and practitioners, but results are generally accepted to be roughly equivalent. IPL is generally advertised as "permanent hair reduction" as opposed to "permanent hair removal" (these phrases are misnomers when applied to laser or IPL hair removal). It is also used for the treatment of the skin in a process known as photorejuvenation.
Hair removal mechanics: The focused, broad-spectrum light is applied to the surface of the skin by way of either a hand-held wand, or by an articulated arm. The intense light travels through the tissue of the skin until it strikes the hair shafts or the bulb (root) of the hair. The bulb is usually where the highest concentration of melanin is located, as opposed to the rest of the hair shaft. The light is converted to heat energy. The bulb and most of the hair shaft are instantly vaporized. The intense heat radiated by the hair also destroys the hair-producing papilla or the entire hair follicle. It is also claimed that direct light-heat conversion occurs directly in the darker colored capilaries that bring nourishing blood to the follicle.
IPL technology is also employed in the treatment of medical disorders of the skin including sun damage induced dyspigmentation and vascular changes; poikiloderma of Civatte; acne Rosacea; broken capillaries/telangiectases; vascular and pigmented birth marks. In terms of rosacea, IPL offers one of the few effective treatments to relieve the facial redness associated with the disorder. Such treatment is best administered by a specialist dermatologist. This new technology incorporates 'dual mode filtering' and other important advances which result in safer and more effective treatment than the older systems; which were initially designed for simple processes such as hair removal.
The pulses of light produced by IPL equipment are very short in duration, so discomfort and damage to non-target tissues is minor. Most people who undergo IPL epilation only experience slight irritation similar to that of a minor sunburn though under certain circumstances, blisters may occur. Men undergoing the procedure experience greater discomfort as male body hair is generally thicker than women's. Depending on the instrument settings and intensity, treating sensitive areas such as the chest and face can result in pain comparable to waxing the same areas; however this pain dissipates immediately. The light that emanates from the IPL wand is filtered to remove any ultraviolet components, eliminating the possibility of UV skin damage.
The Intense Pulsed Light hair removal process has become very popular due to its cheaper and faster procedure compared to laser hair removal, which is often more costly and time consuming. The comparison of effectiveness between Intense Pulsed Light and Laser Epilation is debated by scientists, equipment manufacturers and practitioners, but results are generally accepted to be roughly equivalent. IPL is generally advertised as "permanent hair reduction" as opposed to "permanent hair removal" (these phrases are misnomers when applied to laser or IPL hair removal). It is also used for the treatment of the skin in a process known as photorejuvenation.
Hair removal mechanics: The focused, broad-spectrum light is applied to the surface of the skin by way of either a hand-held wand, or by an articulated arm. The intense light travels through the tissue of the skin until it strikes the hair shafts or the bulb (root) of the hair. The bulb is usually where the highest concentration of melanin is located, as opposed to the rest of the hair shaft. The light is converted to heat energy. The bulb and most of the hair shaft are instantly vaporized. The intense heat radiated by the hair also destroys the hair-producing papilla or the entire hair follicle. It is also claimed that direct light-heat conversion occurs directly in the darker colored capilaries that bring nourishing blood to the follicle.
IPL technology is also employed in the treatment of medical disorders of the skin including sun damage induced dyspigmentation and vascular changes; poikiloderma of Civatte; acne Rosacea; broken capillaries/telangiectases; vascular and pigmented birth marks. In terms of rosacea, IPL offers one of the few effective treatments to relieve the facial redness associated with the disorder. Such treatment is best administered by a specialist dermatologist. This new technology incorporates 'dual mode filtering' and other important advances which result in safer and more effective treatment than the older systems; which were initially designed for simple processes such as hair removal.
The pulses of light produced by IPL equipment are very short in duration, so discomfort and damage to non-target tissues is minor. Most people who undergo IPL epilation only experience slight irritation similar to that of a minor sunburn though under certain circumstances, blisters may occur. Men undergoing the procedure experience greater discomfort as male body hair is generally thicker than women's. Depending on the instrument settings and intensity, treating sensitive areas such as the chest and face can result in pain comparable to waxing the same areas; however this pain dissipates immediately. The light that emanates from the IPL wand is filtered to remove any ultraviolet components, eliminating the possibility of UV skin damage.
Laser Removal
When a child reaches adolescence, many changes take place in their body. Hair growth is one of the most noticeable of these changes, and can often be annoying for some teenagers. Teens have a tendency to be overly sensitive about their hair growth, especially when it appears in a less desirable area of the body such as the face or arms. Girls are usually more sensitive about this than boys. What can they do about it? Laser hair removal might be an option.
How Laser Hair Removal Works for Teenagers
A teenager with unwanted hair might not want to shave just yet, or use wax and other methods because these methods can encourage more rapid hair growth in a teen whose body is not fully mature. Laser hair removal is an option to consider, but should be decided by both the parent and the teen. All laser hair removal clinics require a parent or legal guardian's consent to perform the procedure on a child under 18 years of age.
Laser hair removal works the same for teens as it does for adults. In the latest technology, a laser light called intense pulsed light (IPL) is used to destroy hair follicles where the unwanted hair appears. The procedure is safe for teens, but they should be aware of how the procedure works beforehand. Knowing what to expect will make the visit more pleasant.
Possible Side Effects for Teenagers
The side effects of laser hair removal have been lessened tremendously with the latest IPL technology. However, teens should be aware of the possibility of side effects. A reddening of the area treated can occur for several days after a laser procedure so the patient will want to plan the days after carefully. Having the procedure during a school holiday week or the summer months might be a good idea. Also, the hair will not disappear immediately. It will usually thicken first, then fall away within a week or two, so expectations of the actual visit should not be set too high. Swelling in the treated area can also occur for several hours after treatment.
Teens should also understand that several visits might be required to remove all the unwanted hair. Four visits are the average, but it might take less depending on the amount of hair that needs to be removed, and the color of the patient's hair and skin.
Drawbacks of Laser Hair Removal for Teenagers
Laser hair removal might not be the best option for some teens. One reason is the cost. Laser hair removal can be expensive for teens because it is not permanent. A teen's hair growth process is usually not mature, so more treatments might be required soon to keep the unwanted hair away. After a treatment or session, hair will usually stay gone for around six months. After this period, hair begins to grow again. A teen's hair growth is sometimes more rapid than an adult's, so the laser hair removal procedure might have to be repeated.
Another reason is laser hair removal doesn't always work with every type of hair or skin. The affects are usually best with the combined light skin and dark hair. Blond, white and gray hairs lack pigment, so the treatment is not effective or success rates can be very limited. The teen and parent(s) should consult with a laser hair removal specialist to decide if treatment is best.
Tanning and Laser Hair Removal
Another thing to consider for teens is whether or not they tan their body frequently, either in the sunlight or a tanning facility. A tanned body does not react to laser hair removal positively in many cases. The reason? Tanned skin can prevent some of the laser energy from reaching the hair follicles because the darker the skin, the more light energy it absorbs. When the skin absorbs much of the light, the hair follicles are deprived of the light, and the skin might also be burned during the procedure, causing discomfort. Before the procedure, teens should avoid tanning for as long as possible by wearing strong sunscreen while outdoors.
Fortunately, there are new methods coming on the scene to help those with tanned or dark skin as well. As technology and techniques improve, so are more positive results for people of all skin and hair types. One example is super long-pulse technology, which spreads out the light energy over a longer period of time instead of using intense, fast treatments. The skin is not affected, and more hair follicles can be reached successfully. There are many types of lasers and treatment methods on the market, so the right type of specialist and equipment should be sought out before considering treatment.
Teens can benefit from laser hair removal if they are prepared for the procedure and possible side effects. A successful procedure can help build confidence and provide a safe, simple way to get rid of unwanted hair.
How Laser Hair Removal Works for Teenagers
A teenager with unwanted hair might not want to shave just yet, or use wax and other methods because these methods can encourage more rapid hair growth in a teen whose body is not fully mature. Laser hair removal is an option to consider, but should be decided by both the parent and the teen. All laser hair removal clinics require a parent or legal guardian's consent to perform the procedure on a child under 18 years of age.
Laser hair removal works the same for teens as it does for adults. In the latest technology, a laser light called intense pulsed light (IPL) is used to destroy hair follicles where the unwanted hair appears. The procedure is safe for teens, but they should be aware of how the procedure works beforehand. Knowing what to expect will make the visit more pleasant.
Possible Side Effects for Teenagers
The side effects of laser hair removal have been lessened tremendously with the latest IPL technology. However, teens should be aware of the possibility of side effects. A reddening of the area treated can occur for several days after a laser procedure so the patient will want to plan the days after carefully. Having the procedure during a school holiday week or the summer months might be a good idea. Also, the hair will not disappear immediately. It will usually thicken first, then fall away within a week or two, so expectations of the actual visit should not be set too high. Swelling in the treated area can also occur for several hours after treatment.
Teens should also understand that several visits might be required to remove all the unwanted hair. Four visits are the average, but it might take less depending on the amount of hair that needs to be removed, and the color of the patient's hair and skin.
Drawbacks of Laser Hair Removal for Teenagers
Laser hair removal might not be the best option for some teens. One reason is the cost. Laser hair removal can be expensive for teens because it is not permanent. A teen's hair growth process is usually not mature, so more treatments might be required soon to keep the unwanted hair away. After a treatment or session, hair will usually stay gone for around six months. After this period, hair begins to grow again. A teen's hair growth is sometimes more rapid than an adult's, so the laser hair removal procedure might have to be repeated.
Another reason is laser hair removal doesn't always work with every type of hair or skin. The affects are usually best with the combined light skin and dark hair. Blond, white and gray hairs lack pigment, so the treatment is not effective or success rates can be very limited. The teen and parent(s) should consult with a laser hair removal specialist to decide if treatment is best.
Tanning and Laser Hair Removal
Another thing to consider for teens is whether or not they tan their body frequently, either in the sunlight or a tanning facility. A tanned body does not react to laser hair removal positively in many cases. The reason? Tanned skin can prevent some of the laser energy from reaching the hair follicles because the darker the skin, the more light energy it absorbs. When the skin absorbs much of the light, the hair follicles are deprived of the light, and the skin might also be burned during the procedure, causing discomfort. Before the procedure, teens should avoid tanning for as long as possible by wearing strong sunscreen while outdoors.
Fortunately, there are new methods coming on the scene to help those with tanned or dark skin as well. As technology and techniques improve, so are more positive results for people of all skin and hair types. One example is super long-pulse technology, which spreads out the light energy over a longer period of time instead of using intense, fast treatments. The skin is not affected, and more hair follicles can be reached successfully. There are many types of lasers and treatment methods on the market, so the right type of specialist and equipment should be sought out before considering treatment.
Teens can benefit from laser hair removal if they are prepared for the procedure and possible side effects. A successful procedure can help build confidence and provide a safe, simple way to get rid of unwanted hair.
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