Permanent hair reduction is experienced by some people that use laser therapy but exact information from clinical trials is not available on how much reduction to expect and how often it occurs.
It works by emitting a specific wavelength from a hand held laser which targets the pigment of your hair causing damage to the follicle. Due to the contrast those with light skins and dark hairs get the best results and often any regrowth is lighter in colour and finer in texture. Its advantage over electrolysis is that it is easier to treat large areas. Many practioners suggest 2 or 3 treatments for best results depending on your skin and hair type. It is generally not recommended for dark or tanned skins and results are poor on non-pigmented, blonde and red hair.
In recent times laser therapy has become more and more popular for small areas like the bikini-line and under-arms as well as for excess facial hair. Better and more effective treatments coupled with reduced costs have been the main reasons for its growth in popularity.
Choosing a good laser therapist
Things you should know before making a booking
As stated above laser therapy is more effective on certain skin and hair types, its all about targeting the laser light and the more contrast there is between hair and skin the easier this is and therefore the more effective.
Any form of tanning, be it from the sun, artificial light, spray or cream type self-tans will effect your ability to have this type of treatment. They should also be ceased during the period of treatment.
Certain medications can cause you to be photo sensitive and contra-indicate laser treatment. Drugs that fall into this category are anti-hypertensives given for some heart conditions, anti-depressants and quartazone creams. Any therapist that really knows their stuff should always check this with you.
Finally the type of prior hair removal method you have used will effect your ability temporarily to have laser therapy. Treatments like waxing that remove the hair bulb leave the laser nothing to focus on. So even if you don't normally, you should shave or trim prior to laser treatment for a while to ensure all of the hair in the area is present with its bulb intact.
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