Laser Hair Removal: Benefits, Side Effects, cost and much more

Posted by Ichelon on March 20th, 2020

Do you know, hair is the fastest growing tissue in your body? If you are tired of routine hair removal options like waxing, threading, shaving or tweezing and are looking for a more effective solution, then laser hair removal is one of the few options that offer a permanent approach. Today, increased consciousness and rising changes in beauty standards are major factors propelling the growth of India’s laser hair removal market (Growing CAGR of 8.80% Till 2023).

Dermatologists use lasers i.e. a concentrated beam of light for the hair removal process. This light destroys each hair follicle and ultimately gives smoother, less irritated skin. The laser can treat an area approximately the size of a coin every second. Most people see instant results while others may require more sessions before seeing results. An average woman in her lifetime spends more money on shaving products than men. Laser hair removal is the most popular method among them. It saves both money and time. After undergoing laser treatment, most people report a 90% permanent reduction in hair growth in the treated areas.

So, let’s know more about

The Smooth Skin Laser Hair Removal (LHR)

If one topic catches your eye feel free to skip:

The Table of contents

1. Benefits of Laser Hair Removal over traditional hair removal methods
2. The science behind Laser hair removal/ How does it work?
3. What is the cost of Laser Hair Removal in Gurgaon?
4. How to prepare for Laser Hair Removal?
5. What to expect during a Laser Hair Removal procedure?
6. Know about Recovery and Risks
7. Frequently asked questions
8. Summary

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal over traditional hair removal methods

There are so many different options when it comes to hair removal, waxing, threading, shaving and tweezing also a large number of hair removal products are available in the market. In order to choose which method is best for you, you must first understand the basic differences, pros, and cons of traditional methods vs. laser removal methods.

Waxing consists of applying wax (any type) over the skin area, where you want to get rid of hair and then ripping it off in the opposite direction of hair growth. The hair is pulled out from its root in the process. Waxing provides smooth skin immediately and for three to four weeks.

Laser hair removal is one of the best treatments that safely remove unwanted hair with precision. In this treatment, technicians use laser light and pulse in a particular area. The laser then heats up the hair follicles and the hair pigment absorbs this light. In this process, the root of the follicle gets damaged and debilitated. The treatment gives smoother skin and effects can be seen from the first session of laser treatment and over the first month.

As waxing takes about fifteen minutes to half an hour depending on the size of the area, laser treatment is a speedy process. For example, small areas such as the upper lip can be treated in less than a minute.

When it comes to long term effects, laser hair removal is excellent for permanent hair reduction. The treatment causes no damage to the dermis and is, therefore, gentler on the skin compared to waxing or epilating.

Also if we compare the cost of treatment, even though per session treatment for laser removal is higher than any traditional method, it has a lasting effect. This means that lifetime treatment cost is low.

The science behind Laser hair removal/How does it work?

Laser hair removal is based on the principles of selective photothermolysis: a combination of an appropriate laser wavelength, pulse duration, and fluency.

This is a non-invasive procedure that works by focusing on the melanin found in the hair shaft. In this procedure, laser light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft, damaging the follicular epithelium.

In simple terms, when a laser beam falls on your hair, energy delivered to the hair shaft results in its heating. Heat is also transferred to surrounding cells of the hair shaft, leading to disintegration and at last removal of the hair shaft. In short, hair is removed from their roots.

There are many laser hair removal equipment in the market and it is important for the practitioners to get the right type of equipment for the right clients. Alma is the largest aesthetic laser devices manufacturer. Their SHR (super hair removal) technique combines laser technology and benefits of the pulsating light method to achieve practically painless results. Even the hair that is difficult or impossible to be removed, can now be treated. The Alma Soprano Model works on the comfort side without sacrificing the results.

What is the cost of Laser Hair Removal in Gurgaon?

The cost of any surgery or treatment remains the deciding factor. The price depends on certain factors such as the area to be treated, no. of sessions required, etc. The cost per session in Gurgaon varies from Rs. 1,500 – Rs. 10,000 depending upon the area. While considering various costs in different places in India, we have listed the price range for a few popular areas as follows:

• Upper lips: The cost is Rs. 1,500 – Rs. 3,500 per session approximately.
• Chin: The cost is Rs. 2,000 – Rs. 4,000 per session.
• Arms: The cost per session ranges from Rs. 8,000 – Rs. 10,000 for arms and Rs. 2,500 – Rs. 4,500 for underarms.
• Back: Time and sessions required for this part are highest, thus the cost ranges from Rs. 7,500 – Rs. 10,500 per session.
• Legs: For full leg hair removal the cost is around Rs. 7,500 – Rs. 15,500 per session.

Most people usually require around 4 to 6 sessions for the best results. Many other clinics in Gurgaon also offer various packages. The choice of the clinic also impacts your laser hair removal cost.

How to prepare for Laser Hair Removal?

The First step is always the most important thing to consider: since longer hair can make the process more painful, you need to “shave” your hair from the area to be treated. It is best to shave the night before to ensure that the unwanted hair won’t have time to grow back.
Preparing well before your treatment will help you avoid any side effects. You should also avoid plucking, tweezing or waxing for a month before treatment. On the day of the treatment, keep the area clean, free from any cream or lotions. You must wear loose-fitting comfortable clothes as your skin will be very sensitive post-treatment.
Most importantly if you want to enjoy the magic of the process, avoid sun exposure to prevent any damage to the skin before treatment. If the area is tanned, you may need to reschedule your appointment.
Also remember, it takes more than one session to see those phenomenal results. Make sure you attend all of your appointments advised by your technician.

What to expect during a Laser Hair Removal procedure?

Before the treatment, your technician will cleanse the area to be treated. You will be wearing protective eyewear during the procedure. Alma Lasers Soprano ICE laser with cutting-edge technology provides safety and comfort. Your technician will use a laser machine to remove hair by vaporizing it.
The length of treatment will depend on the area(s) being treated, the density of hair, and the preparation required. For example, the upper lip may take only a few minutes, whereas a larger area such as the back may require an hour or more.
The hair growth cycle plays a key role in deciding how many sessions are required. As individual hairs grow at different paces, multiple sessions are advised. These multiple treatments typically target hair follicles in the area and slow or reduce growth.
Some people may feel slight but manageable discomfort or pain and some may experience temporary swelling or redness at the treatment site. Your technician will provide some help for reducing discomfort (for example numbing gel). The redness on your skin will disappear in a few weeks.
With a series of treatments, you may permanently reduce hair growth in the targeted area.

Know about the Recovery and Risks

In most of the cases, you may return to work and routine activities immediately following your treatment. Your technician will also provide detailed instructions about post-treatment care and any potential signs of complications. Avoid sun exposure for a few weeks and you may need to use specially formulated skincare products.
It is important that before opting for laser treatment, you must be aware of a few side effects of the treatment.

• Minor side effects include redness or swelling of the area. This effect is temporary and can be minimized with the help of lotions.
• Other possible side effects are infection, skin allergy, damage to the area, increased hair growth, etc.

The good news is that the majority of people do not show any long-term health risks associated with the procedure.

It's very important to choose your practitioner based on his education, training, certification and most importantly, experience with laser hair removal. You can minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your fully-qualified practitioner.

Let’s look at some frequently asked questions

Is laser hair removal permanent?

This method isn’t completely permanent, but the growth of hair is reduced or slowed and the results of laser treatments last for several weeks.

Does laser hair removal hurt? Is using Laser safe?

Some people may find the treatment slightly painful. Your dermatologist will use a few methods to relieve the pain and any discomfort. In recent years, many advances have been made in the laser process making it more safe and effective.

Can Laser Hair Removal be performed on all parts of the body and all types of hair?

Laser hair removal is effective for all body parts but isn’t intended for areas of the skin near an open orifice (nose, ear, etc.) and also not for eyelids, eyebrows or surrounding areas. Advances in laser technology have made it suitable for all skin and hair color.

Should I get Laser Hair Removal done from a spa or a clinic?

Even though laser machines are available at spas, it`s technically a medical procedure and you need to consult an experienced and certified practitioner at the clinic.

How is the IPL different from Laser Hair Removal? Which is better?

Lasers produce a single, concentrated beam of light and IPL produces a wide spectrum of light. Both treatments work in a similar manner and target hair efficiently to generate optimal results.

Takeaways

When performed by a licensed professional, Laser hair removal is considered a safe procedure with minimum risks and long term effects. Repeated treatments are usually necessary because of the hair growth cycle and hormonal effects. Most people report a 90% permanent reduction in hair growth. Complications of the procedure are very rare and temporary. For effective body hair maintenance laser treatment is the best solution.