Laser hair removal is becoming more and more popular in the US, and for good reason! In fact, there were over 1 million sessions done in 2010, and that number has only increased since then!
While it is certainly appealing, to find out if laser hair removal is right for you, you need to know how it works, the safety risks, and what the process is like! Let's talk about that and the benefits of laser hair removal!
Benefits Of Laser Hair Removal #1. Longevity
When you shave, it comes right back. Sometimes, it's so fast, you barely believe that you had just shaved. By the time you reach the age when you have a full-time job, more responsibilities, and even children, this hassle turns into a burden.
You may hear from a friend that waxing is better for keeping the hair away for a little longer, so you start trying that. Then you have to book an appointment every few weeks, plan your schedule around it, pay for the services each time, and plan to come back again. You'll also be trying to avoid any events where you'll have to show off your skin in those last few days before each appointment.
Well, laser hair removal provides between 50 and 95% reduction in hair growth, and the ones that do grow back tend to be a lot finer, as opposed to shaven hairs. You should expect about a 10% to 20% reduction with each session.
#2. Long Term Cost
Sure, laser hair removal isn't as cheap as buying a pack of razors. However, that's not how you measure the cost. How often do you buy those packs of razors?
Like we said, maybe you started moving over to waxing because it lasts a little longer. Okay, how much do you spend on each waxing session? It adds up when you do it every 2 or 3 weeks.
With laser hair removal, the costs have decreased dramatically in recent years, and a few sessions are all it takes to stop buying endless amounts of razors, shaving cream, and waxing sessions.
#3. No Ingrown Hairs
If you're prone to ingrown hairs, this is the benefit that'll make you jump with excitement. Ingrown hairs are painful, difficult to fix, and don't look too pretty. Not to mention, getting them removed is a nightmare.
Laser treatment is also great for people who are prone to razor burn, or who have all-around sensitive skin that gets irritated when you shave or wax.
#4. You Can Shave Between Treatments
That's right. Unlike waxing, you can shave between your treatments, avoiding any limitations on what you feel comfortable wearing just before each appointment. By the time that you'll find yourself needing to shave, irritation will likely be long gone, so don't worry about shaving over the area.
#5. Treatments Are Quick
Treatment sessions don't take too long. For underarms or the bikini area, sessions only take about 20 minutes. Legs will certainly take longer but think about all the times you've spent over a half-hour shaving after a shower only to find all the spots you missed when you get to different lighting. With laser removal, you don't have to spend all that extra time worrying about the stubble you left behind. 4 to 8 sessions doesn't sound too bad when you consider that perspective.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Let's quickly go over how it works so we can talk about the benefits a little more clearly. So how does laser hair removal work?
The process of safe laser hair removal works by using a laser emitting a light that is absorbed by the melanin in your hair. The light from the laser is then converted to heat which causes damage to the hair follicles, which causes a delay in future hair growth. After multiple sessions, it can stop your follicles from growing hair completely.
Is It Safe?
Yes, it is relatively safe. Laser hair removal risks are pretty mild, and mostly include redness and skin irritation as your body's response to the damaged follicles. This can also cause problems with sun exposure, especially right after the treatment sessions.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
For most people, it will only take 6 to 8 treatments to fully clear an area. However, some people may only need as little as 4! It will totally depend on the region of your body and your own hair type.
How Often Are Treatments?
Unlike waxing, laser treatments will only need to be done every 4 to 6 weeks early on. Waxing sessions, depending on your hair type and region, typically need to be done every 3 to 4 weeks. The difference is that with laser treatment, the more you do it, the less frequently you'll need treatment.
Is It Painful?
Laser treatment certainly isn't more painful than waxing, and a numbing cream is can be used for those with sensitive skin, making it a lot more comfortable. You'll also need fewer sessions than you will with waxing. The first few sessions can be intimidating, but if you know what to expect, you should be okay!
Is Laser Hair Removal Right For Me?
Now that you know the process, risks, and benefits of laser hair removal, you can make that informed decision for yourself. If there's hair you want to go, then this is one of the best ways to get rid of it!
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