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Laser Hair Removal Studies


Laser hair removal involves delivering light at a specific wavelength from a handheld wand into the skin. The light targets dark material such as the pigment found in dark hair. The light causes thermal or mechanical damage to the hair follicle but leaves the surrounding tissue untouched.

Large Areas

 

Pros:

*Many consumers experience a long-term or permanent hair reduction

*When performed under optimal conditions, the procedure is safe

* Works well for large areas, for instance, legs or the back

*Any regrowth will be lighter in color and have a finer texture

*Ideal for a brunette consumer with fair skin

 

Unethical Claims

Some practitioners will make wild, unethical claims about laser hair removal. For instance, some clinics will claim the procedure is “virtually painless.” Laser treatment isn’t pain-free, but most find the experience tolerable. The sensation of pulsed light is likened to that of a rubber band being snapped against your skin. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen an hour before a session is advisable. There are 4% lidocaine sprays and creams that can be purchased over the counter and can be applied 20 minutes before a laser hair removal session.

Some clinics will promise “100% permanent hair removal,” or “guaranteed 0% hair regrowth,” and these, too, are wild claims which cast suspicion on a clinic’s ethics and standards. Another dubious marketing term is “laser electrolysis,” or “lasertrolysis.” The two procedures, laser hair removal, and electrolysis are two very different procedures and this blurring of the distinctions between the two is meant to confuse rather than to inform consumers. If a clinic claims that laser hair removal is a more advanced technology or a better procedure than electrolysis, this too is a shady marketing ploy. Again, the procedures are very different and you may be a better candidate for one than the other.