How to Get Laser Hair Removal

When laser hair removal became well known in the early 90's, it was somewhat limited because the machines could only deal with certain types of skin and skin pigments. Today, however, all of that has changed and the door is open to a much broader customer base. That does not, however, mean that everyone is a good candidate for laser hair removal.<br><br>Many people today are opting for laser hair removal in lieu of electrolysis. There are obvious advantages and disadvantages to each procedure, and making the final decision between them is a personal one for each individual. <br><br>The most common reason for seeking laser hair removal is twofold. It is sought to remove existing hair as well as to stop or lengthen the amount of time it takes for hair regrowth. But once a decision has been made to seek out the procedure, great care should also be taken in choosing the right place to go.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A budget or set amount that you can afford for the procedure.
• <br>A list of nearby places where you can obtain the procedure.

How to Get Laser Hair Removal

1. Make certain you understand that laser hair removal is considered a medical procedure that should be done by physician. Lasers as a whole use a light beam to penetrate the skin at each hair follicle to damage it in such a way as to prevent its regrowth altogether or to extend the amount of time that it takes to regrow the follicle. There are, however, different types of laser procedures available in today's market. The 2 most common either use wavelengths and/or a cooling device.

2. Decide where you want laser hair removal. Various parts of the body will require different amounts of time and a various number of treatments in order for the procedure to be effective. For example, hair removal for women's underarms or bikini area can take as little as 3 or as much as 10 hours. Leg hair removal, on the other hand, can take anywhere from 80 to more than 200 hours for each leg. Hair removal for men, however, can take much longer. Removal on a man's back may take as much as 350 hours, depending upon the density of the hair and several other factors. Facial hair removal can take between 7 and 15 hours.<br><br>Factors such as the individual's skin tone and hair color can have an impact on the length of time needed for laser hair removal as well as how many treatments might be required. However, the hair's texture will certainly have the biggest impact of all.

3. Determine if your state regulates laser hair removal in any way. For example, in some states any physician can do laser hair removal while in others, he or she must be board certified in dermatology. If so, obtain as much information as you possibly can about the your state's regulations. This will be useful as you move forward to choose someone to do the procedure for you.

4. Also obtain as much information as you can about the laser hair removal procedure itself. Information should include the amount of time required for each procedure, the number of treatments that will be required, what it will feel like, the amount of pain that can be expected and the aftercare requirements.

5. Determine where the closest laser hair removal facility is located to your home. The procedure may not be available locally, which means that it is possible that travel expenses must be included in your budget.

6. If you know anyone who has had already had laser hair removal, talk extensively with them about it. Ask questions about how it worked for them; what side effects, if any, it had; the amount of pain they felt, if any; and any other information that you are specifically interested in obtaining. If you know multiple people who have had the procedure, talk to as many of them as possible so that you are certain you have a clear idea of what to expect. Don't be afraid to ask them whether or not they would recommend the place and person who did their laser hair removal. That will tell you whether or not to eliminate that location and individual or leave them on your options list.

7. Narrow down your possible laser hair removal sites to 2 or 3 and then do an even more extensive research. Determine each site's reputation. If your state regulates laser hair removal, make certain that the site and physician you are considering is up to date with all regulation requirements.

8. Obtain a consultation from your top laser removal site. Before going to the consultation, obtain a copy of your medical history for review. Also make a list of questions that you want to get answered during the interview. First, it is important to find out if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Beyond that, however, you need to know exactly how many treatments the physician believes will be required, whether or not he or she "guarantees" the treatment, and the total cost. On the average, a single treatment will cost around $475. However, the cost will vary depending upon where on the body the treatment is being performed, your skin's natural pigmentation and sensitivity and the texture of the hair to be removed.<br><br>If you are not happy with the result of your first consultation, then obtain a second, third, or fourth one until you feel comfortable with their answers, the site where the procedure will be done, the costs, and more.

9. Obtain a list of the possible side effects of the procedure and study it so that you thoroughly understand what "might" happen. Common typical side effects include some that are temporary and others that can be more permanent in nature. Typical temporary side effects include redness, irritation, discoloration and/or swelling of the laser site. This will usually fade away within a few hours. Other typical side effects can include hair regrowth or incomplete hair removal at the site. Other effects can include a change in skin pigmentation, a change in the skin's texture and/or a change in the hair that may regrow. More serious side effects are rare but can include temporary blisters, scars or scabs. The skin may also form a temporary crust over the laser site.

10. Find out what to expect after the procedure and obtain a list of any limitations that the physician recommends. You may be asked to refrain from exercising and to avoid the sun or tanning booths for a certain amount of time. You may also be given a list of products or items to use (or not to use) on the skin where the procedure took place for a certain amount of time.

11. While you are at the site, examine it for cleanliness. Also pay attention to the staff and, in particular, the physician who will do the procedure. Do they appear clean and healthy? Do they use precautionary techniques and use supplies like gloves and masks? If the initial consultation is not with the physician who will perform your procedure, ask to meet with that individual as well. Make certain you are comfortable with him or her. If not, find out if you can request someone else. Also ask to see the equipment that will be used for the treatment and ask for an explanation of how it operates.

12. If you are happy with your first site choice, then you are set to go. If not, however, move on to the second, third or fourth choice until you find a location and physician that suits you.

Tips & Warnings

• Make certain that laser hair removal is right for you.
• <br>Consider alternative options before settling on laser hair removal.
• <br>Research, research, research until you know everything you need to know about the procedure you are about to undergo.
• <br>Make certain that the laser hair removal site you choose is clean and healthy in order to avoid possible life-threatening infections.
• Stay away from laser hair removal treatment sites that do not meet the regulations established by your state.
• <br>Don't be bullied into anything that you do not want or into treatment with someone that makes your uncomfortable.
• <br>Don't let cost be the only factor in making your final treatment decision.