What are the pros and cons of Facial Laser Hair Removal

Facial Laser Hair Removal: The pros and cons

While men are more than used to shaving their beards and mustache, women also have to take care of their facial hair. Women in particular appreciate hair removal for the: Upper lip Chin Cheeks Jawline Men might appreciate hair removal for their side-burns or to reduce the need for shaving so you avoid razor burn, bumps, and uncomfortable ingrown hairs. While facial laser hair removal is not new to anyone, facial laser hair removal raises quite a few questions. Whether full face, upper lip, pr chin laser hair removal, facial hair removal is a very popular treatment here at infinity laser spa NYC. 

 

How does Laser Hair removal work on the face? 

Laser hair removal relies on selective photothermolysis. It is a precise microsurgery technique. It targets tissue in a specific area. The technique matches the specific wavelength of light and heats the tissue and destroys it with a laser. All of this without affecting or damaging surrounding tissue.

During a laser hair removal session, a beam of light is produced. The light energy targets the pigments in the hair . Once the melanin has absorbed the light, it travels to the hair follicle. There, it turns into thermal energy. The heat damages the follicle. That is how it prevents further hair growth.

One other thing laser hair removal relies on is the hair growth cycle. The procedure only works when the hair is in the anagen phase of growth. Indeed, it is the only time the hair and follicle connect. During any other phase, the energy can not make it to its destination. The thing is, only 20% of body hair is in the right phase of growth. And this, at any point in time. Thus, one session can treat up to 20% of hair.

When the small laser applicator is applied to treatment areas on your face, the energy penetrates your outer layer of skin to target the pigmented hair follicles beneath. These follicles heat up to a temperature that renders them unable to grow hair. You need multiple sessions because hair grows in cycles, and laser hair treatments are most effective when hair is in the active growth phase

That is why sessions are six weeks apart. So that the laser gets the chance to target every single hair. This is regardless of the hair growth cycle. That timeframe also allows the hair to move into the right stage of growth.

The laser therapy works on all skin types, from light to dark, and is safe and effective on most hair colors and types, from fine, blonde hair to thick, dark hair

Is laser hair removal safe for the face? 

Laser hair removal can be performed anywhere on the face, such as the upper lip and chin. But you should avoid laser hair removal when removing hairs from around the eyelids and surrounding areas. 

You don't need any official downtime following laser hair removal, but you should avoid sun exposure for several weeks afterward, as your skin is temporarily extra sensitive to ultraviolet rays. If you use any scrubs, glycolic acid, or retinol creams on your complexion, avoid them for two days before and after treatment.

Procedure for laser hair removal on the face

Before the laser hair removal procedure begins, your face will be clean and a numbing gel might be applied to the treatment area. You will be given eye protection and your hair will be covered. Avoid sun exposure in the days before treatment, as laser hair removal doesn't work well on tanned skin. Avoid peels or other chemical treatments in the week leading up to your procedure, which may irritate skin. You may be told to shave or wax the area beforehand.

The technician will aim the laser at the specific area. The most patient says the procedure feels like a rubber band or a sunburn. You might be able to smell the scent of burnt hair. 

Because the face area is smaller than other parts of the body. Laser hair removal on the face will generally be pretty quick. Sometimes, done in a little as 20 minutes.

The cons of laser hair removal on the face 

The cost

The upfront cost is a big con of laser hair removal. Packages always include six sessions. Which you need to pay at once as you start your treatment.

It may seem like a lot of money. Especially as prices vary from one place to another. Some laser spas are more affordable than others.

Some cities will offer services that are cheaper too. But overall, the money you will have to pay upfront may deter you from trying the treatment.

The side effects

Another con of laser treatments is the side effects. They are rare but they exist. Just like for any other hair removal method.

Patients can experience redness and irritated skin. After all, the laser sends a lot of energy against the skin. It is a rare yet normal reaction. That fades after a few hours.

Crusting may also happen. Although a minor issue, it can be inconvenient. Especially if not left alone. Do not scratch, do not touch.

Skin discoloration is also a side effect. Some patients may notice some minor color changes. These changes fade over time.

The variables

The results of laser hair removal treatments are variable. Several factors can interfere with your treatment. Hormones for example. An imbalance or a huge change can trigger hair growth.

If you suffer from hirsutism, you may need a longer treatment too. Genetics can also play a role. Again, some patients have stronger hair growth.

The results are unique to each individual. Dark hair on fair skin is easier to target than dark hair on dark skin or fair hair on light skin.

The pros of laser hair removal treatments on the face

The hair growth reduction

One big advantage of facial laser hair removal is that it reduces unwanted hair growth. Yes, a lot of patients achieve permanent hair removal.

You will see a significant difference even after your first session. The hair will start shedding a week or so after. After four-session, you can expect at least a 50% hair growth reduction. How amazing will that feel?! Not having to worry about hair removal ever again!

The painless process

The biggest pro of facial laser hair removal? It does not hurt! Not like waxing. Which is incredibly painful. Especially around the intimate area.

Laser hair removal treatments feel like pinching. Or like a rubber band snapping at the skin. It is not completely painless. But it does not hurt.

Laser treatments are most comfortable. While the sensation is unpleasant, it is tolerable. Of course, each patient has a different tolerance to pain.

Plus, areas like the bikini, are more sensitive. Your treatment won't hurt like waxing. Yet, it will still be a bit more painful.

The fast treatments

Laser hair removal does not need much preparation. You shave before your session. You stay away from the sun. If you are on medication, you tell your technician.

A session for a small area takes up to ten minutes. Even a large area like the full legs is done fairly quickly. 30 to 35 minutes.

You are in and out of the treatment room in absolutely no time. Some patients come in for a session over their lunch break!

The peace of mind

Now, last but not least, something we all crave. Peace of mind. Not having to think about unwanted hair, or booking our next wax, or being ready for the holidays.

Laser hair removal removes your hair close to permanently. You will not have to think about hair removal ever again. No more stress, no more last-minute panic. You'll be good. And that is the biggest pro of laser hair removal.