Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular methods for eliminating unwanted body hairs. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in demand for laser hair removal, leading to a reduction in the need for waxing salons, razors, waxing, epilators, as well as reducing the occurrence of pimples and ingrown hairs or subcutaneous hairs.
How laser hair removal works?
Laser light heats up and burns anything that's dark-colored. By heating and burning dark-colored hair inside the hair follicle, the follicle itself gets damaged and disappears. Each of our body hairs has a growth and resting cycle. At any given time, most of our body hairs are in the resting phase, with only a small number in the growth phase. If the hair follicle is in the resting phase during laser hair removal, the laser rays have no effect on it. That's why multiple laser treatment sessions with specific time intervals are needed to eliminate all the hairs.
Each session of hair removal, whether using a device or laser, burns a number of active hair follicles, eventually leading to the removal of all unwanted hair. Hair removal devices or laser machines achieve the process of eliminating unwanted hair by exposing the hair to pulses of laser light, which results in the destruction of the hair follicle and prevents regrowth. After approximately 20 years of research and testing, this method has been commercially available in clinics and for the general public since 1995.
Types of laser hair removal
There are several factors that influence the results of laser hair removal, and specialized physicians use different devices for removing unwanted body hair based on the hair color, skin type, hair thickness, and treatment area.For scheduling laser hair removal sessions, one of the following devices is typically used:
- Alexandrite Laser for laser hair removal
- Ruby Laser for laser hair removal
- High-power Pulsed Laser
- Nd:YAG Laser
- Diode Laser for laser hair removal
What is Laser hair removal?
We don't want to overwhelm you with scientific laser discussions, but it's good to have a general idea of how lasers work. Laser is a type of light beam, but it has specific physical properties and is highly energetic. Lasers have a wide range of applications in medicine and industry. In industry, lasers are used for cutting and engraving, while in medicine, lasers are utilized for various surgeries like eye surgery (LASIK).
Laser is a science and technology. It means that depending on its application, specific features can be considered and optimized for a particular task.
Different types of lasers are used for removing unwanted hair. Technologies such as Alexandrite, Nd:YAG, and Diode lasers are among the commonly used lasers for hair removal. These lasers have differences in their applications. For example, for light skin types, the Alexandrite laser is the most suitable laser, while Nd:YAG is more commonly used for individuals with darker skin tones. This practical difference is due to the unique physical properties of lasers, such as frequency and wavelength.
Laser works on the hair follicles. Laser hair removal is designed to heat the hair bulb and damage the follicles. Follicles are small organs beneath the skin that produce body hair. By damaging the follicles and hair bulbs, hair growth is permanently halted.
Laser induces selective damage. The significant point is that the heat from the laser causes damage and disables the follicles, but this damage is entirely selective. It means that it doesn't simultaneously harm the skin and the surrounding tissues of the follicles. However, there can be instances where the skin is harmed due to laser operator error.
Laser results in permanent reduction of unwanted hair. This method can permanently remove between 70% to 90% of unwanted hair. From a scientific perspective, we say that laser leads to permanent hair reduction and not permanent hair removal because it's not possible to eliminate 100% of unwanted hair in a single treatment session. However, the 70% to 90% that is removed will never grow back.
What are the risks of laser?
In any case, all cosmetic medical treatments have risks. Laser can lead to the development of wounds, burns, changes in skin color, and the formation of pimples. These risks depend to a large extent on the operator's skill. Sometimes, corticosteroid creams (cortisone) are prescribed to patients to alleviate swelling and inflammation in the treated area.
The most significant risk associated with laser hair removal in the facial area is the potential harm to the eyes. You may see flashes of light during the treatment. If the operator makes an error and the laser directly hits your retina, there is a risk of injury.
Again, the most important preventive measure for laser side effects is to avoid direct sunlight. Avoid tanning beds and sun exposure until after completing the entire laser treatment course. Whenever you go outside, make sure to use a high SPF sunscreen. Remember that the effect of sunscreen wears off after 2 hours, so you'll need to reapply it.
The level of pain, risks, and potential side effects of laser hair removal for men
The level of pain experienced during laser hair removal depends on your pain threshold and the area being treated. More sensitive areas of the skin may be more painful. Most men report that laser hair removal is not very painful and may feel like a slight discomfort, similar to a rubber band snapping against the skin. Only a small percentage of individuals find it quite painful, and for them, local anesthetics can be used to reduce the discomfort.
The risks of laser hair removal for both men and women are similar. These risks include burns, wounds, changes in skin color, and the potential for skin irritation or acne. There is ongoing research regarding the risk of cancer, damage to the reproductive system, and related concerns, but no definitive evidence suggests serious long-term side effects at this time.
Following post-laser care recommendations, such as avoiding sun exposure and refraining from vigorous exercise, can significantly reduce the chances of adverse effects. Generally, permanent and severe complications from laser hair removal are not well-documented. However, it's important to consult with a qualified professional and discuss any concerns or potential risks specific to your situation before undergoing the procedure.
Some of the side effects of laser hair removal
1. Skin Redness and Skin Irritation
One of the side effects of full-body laser hair removal is skin irritation and redness. Laser hair removal destroys the hair follicles, and the body reacts to it. Many individuals experience signs of irritation and redness in the area affected by laser light. It can lead to feelings of itching and burning, sensitivity, and even swelling and skin inflammation, as well as skin rashes and purpura. Skin irritation and redness are among the most common side effects of full-body laser hair removal. While these effects are typically short-term and temporary, a lack of sufficient expertise in using laser devices by professionals can prolong this condition. The skin in the treated area may appear soft and brittle. To reduce skin reactions during the procedure, dermatologists may use local anesthesia. Symptoms of irritation usually subside or resolve within a short time after the initial reaction, typically a few hours after laser hair removal.
2. Changes in Skin Pigmentation
Individuals with very fair skin may notice dark spots on their skin after completing laser hair removal to eliminate unwanted hair. Conversely, individuals with darker skin tones may notice lighter spots. These changes are usually temporary and will fade over time. However, if this condition becomes severe and persists, it's important to consult a dermatologist who specializes in skin and hair. In some individuals, laser-related side effects manifest as brief changes in skin color in the treated areas, causing the skin to appear slightly darker or lighter than its natural tone. People with lighter skin tones tend to experience slightly darker skin color, while those with darker skin may experience slight lightening of the skin color.
3. Skin Peeling
In some individuals, laser-related side effects manifest as skin peeling in the treated area. While this is considered a minor issue, it can be unpleasant. Skin peeling can sometimes lead to the formation of scabs or scars on the skin. Prolonged exposure to laser light can be one of the factors causing skin issues and, in some cases, bleeding. A laser specialist should assess the sensitivity of the individual's skin before starting the procedure and use an appropriate level of laser intensity.
4. Hair Growth Around the Treated Areas
This is an extremely rare side effect that may occur in very few individuals undergoing laser treatment. It involves hair regrowth in the treated area and its surroundings. To prevent such laser-related side effects in laser hair removal, it's advisable to avoid laser treatments if you have a medical history of hormonal imbalances. Before undergoing laser treatment, ensure that your hormonal levels are stable.
5. Hypertrichosis or Hirsutism
Recent studies show that the main cause of hair growth stimulation and hirsutism after laser treatment is the improper use of laser by specialists performing the procedure. Heat stimulation can activate dormant and inactive follicles, providing energy to thin and fine hairs, and It can lead to the formation of lesions . If the energy used in the laser is less than the optimum and ideal energy level, follicles are not completely destroyed due to insufficient energy and heat. In such conditions, hair follicles begin to repair the damage, strengthen and rebuild themselves, resulting in increased hair growth and the occurrence of hirsutism or hypertrichosis. That's why laser hair removal is not recommended for removing thin and fine hair.
6. Genital Warts or Skin Diseases
One of the potential side effects that individuals may experience after undergoing laser hair removal is genital warts or other skin problems. In fact, the occurrence of this issue is not related to laser hair removal itself but depends solely on the cleanliness of the environment and equipment used.
7. Ulcers and Scars
In some cases of laser hair removal, ulcers may develop in the treated area, and sometimes these ulcers can leave scars on the skin. The cause of this issue is improper use of the laser device by a laser therapy specialist.
Alexandrite laser is suitable for fair and normal skin types, while diode laser is suitable for bronze skin, and Nd:YAG laser is suitable for dark skin types. Therefore, a specialized beauty surgeon and laser technician must ensure the proper and adequate use of laser during the laser hair removal procedure. The best laser hair removal device for one skin type may not yield the same results for another skin type.
8. Acne and Pimples
One of the functions of hair is to protect the skin from bacteria, and sebaceous glands or oil glands keep the skin clean and open. The dangers of laser hair removal can include the development of acne and pimples, especially in the skin of the back, underarms, and genital areas.
9. Eye damage
To prevent this condition, choose an experienced laser specialist. In laser surgery, concentrated and powerful laser beams are typically used. Therefore, the risk of eye damage is considered a serious potential threat, especially if laser is used for removing facial hair. We never recommend laser hair removal near the eye and the surrounding eye socket because there is a high likelihood that laser radiation may come into contact with the eyes and lead to inflammation of choroid and eye damage.
10. Risk of Skin Infection
Similar to other common cosmetic surgery methods for hair removal, one of the potential complications of laser hair removal can be the risk of developing a skin infection. In fact, after undergoing laser hair removal, the skin in the treated area becomes susceptible to microbial skin infections, especially bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Individuals who have been exposed to sunlight for an extended period before laser hair removal are more at risk of skin infections than others. Environmental hygiene also plays a significant role in this regard.
11. Skin Burns and Blistering
Another harm caused by insufficient laser specialist experience is skin burns and blistering. In the process of laser hair removal, lasers with high heat are used. If this procedure is not performed properly and successfully, the risk of skin burns and scarring is quite high. Mild and partial burns are reported in many individuals who undergo laser treatments today.
Laser-induced burns may occur in three forms. Partial and mild burns, which are not a significant issue and gradually heal over time. However, the second and third types of burns, which occur mainly due to incorrect device and specialist selection, are more severe and can lead to skin scarring, more serious skin damage, blistering, and even open wounds that may result in lasting scar tissue on the skin.
Who Shouldn't Get Laser Treatment
1. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Laser hair removal during pregnancy is not recommended. The reason is that there have been no direct studies on the effects of laser hair removal during pregnancy on humans. Therefore, the safety of this procedure for the fetus has not been established. Some pregnant women may desire laser hair removal because hair growth, especially in areas like the chest and abdomen, may increase during pregnancy. However, it's important to know that many of these excess hairs during pregnancy naturally resolve over time, and there is no need for hair removal procedures.
Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should also avoid laser hair removal. Sufficient research has not been conducted to determine the effects of laser on fetuses or breastfeeding infants. For safety, it is strongly recommended to refrain from laser therapy as long as you are breastfeeding your child.
2. Individuals with specific medical conditions
One common medical condition that can have a negative impact on laser hair removal is diabetes. If you have diabetes, your nerves and body tissues are more sensitive to pain, and they heal more slowly, making you more susceptible to burns or scarring. The risk of infection in the wound area is also higher, leading to longer recovery periods. Patients with diabetes may be at increased risk during laser therapy. The skin of diabetic individuals heals more slowly, increasing the risk of infection.
3. Individuals taking antibiotics
Antibiotics are substances that can make the skin sensitive to light. Photosensitivity or sensitivity to light is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs in response to exposure to light, often caused by certain medications and substances. In these conditions, the skin is more vulnerable to damage from heat, which can lead to side effects such as blistering, fever, fatigue, and persistent pain in the patient after laser hair removal.
4. Individuals taking specific vitamins
Many people, after consulting with a general physician, may need to consume dietary supplements, blood thinners, and often high-dose vitamin E. Most patients do not realize that such supplements can have a negative impact on their laser hair removal with Candela Alex laser, but these individuals can be among those for whom laser hair removal can be detrimental.
5. Individuals using cosmetics and personal care products
The use of cosmetics and personal care products before laser hair removal sessions is not recommended at all. Laser treatment should only target the absorption of melanin or the pigment present in hair follicles, and any substance that interferes with the absorption of laser energy by pigments can not only reduce the effectiveness of the laser but may also harm your skin.
Immediately after a laser session, you can apply concealer or powder cream in a very thin layer to cover redness in the treated area. However, it's best to remove them from your skin shortly after to allow your skin to recover. The less cosmetic and personal care products you use on your skin, the less chance there is of irritation. Skin recovery varies from person to person, but typically, the skin will improve within 24 to 48 hours, allowing you to use cosmetics and personal care products.
The use of deodorant sprays or any cosmetics and personal care products that form a layer on the skin is also not recommended before laser hair removal sessions. Some deodorants may leave residue on the skin even after washing, which can interfere with laser light. Laser energy may be absorbed by the remaining substances from deodorant on the skin, reducing the laser's effectiveness and potentially harming the skin. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid applying deodorants to the area that will be treated with laser at least 24 hours before the session.
6. Individuals with skin infections, such as herpes (cold sores)
Having active infections in the area where you intend to have laser hair removal, such as herpes (cold sores), can negatively affect the laser hair removal process. However, as soon as the infection is treated, laser hair removal can be initiated. If you are prone to cold sores, it's better to use antiviral prophylactic medication before laser hair removal sessions to prevent outbreaks.
Additionally, if you have an active herpes infection, the heat from the laser can worsen it and have a detrimental effect on your skin. Therefore, individuals with active herpes infections are among those for whom laser hair removal can be harmful. If the source of your herpes infection is viral, a specialist typically prescribes antiviral medications and may recommend that you take these medications before and after laser hair removal sessions to prevent the spread of the virus to other areas of your body.
7. Individuals with acne
If you have acne, it's better to exercise caution with laser hair removal with the Candela Alex laser. As mentioned earlier, like active herpes, acne can potentially worsen due to the heat generated by the laser, and you may experience more acne on your skin. Even if acne is near the area you want to treat with laser, the laser's heat can affect it. For this reason, it's essential to consult with a dermatologist or a skin and hair specialist before undergoing laser hair removal to avoid unintended side effects.
8. When your period is near
A few days before and during menstruation, your body tends to be more sensitive. Therefore, experts recommend waiting until your menstrual cycle is over and then proceeding with laser hair removal. While laser hair removal during menstruation doesn't have specific side effects, it may increase sensitivity and discomfort. It's worth noting that in some individuals, laser treatments can disrupt their menstrual cycles.
9. If you have an open wound in the area where you want to do laser hair removal, it should not be done in those areas.
In these areas, the laser energy is not absorbed by the follicles and can actually cause more damage to the wound and lead to more irritation and burning. Therefore, if you have an open wound, laser hair removal is not recommended.
10. People who have autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) are among the unknown diseases, and many of them have no cure; medications are only prescribed to control them in patients. In these types of diseases, the immune system of the body recognizes certain body tissues as invaders and attacks them. For this reason, in diseases like MS, most individuals face issues such as muscle weakness or sudden loss of body functions. However, so far, there has been no observation that laser hair removal poses a problem for patients with autoimmune diseases. Nevertheless, it's better for these patients to refrain from unnecessary procedures like laser hair removal using Candela GentleMax.
11. People with light, white, or gray hair
Considering that the function and impact of Candela GentleMax and Candela YAG lasers are only on dark hair and they need to absorb skin pigments, if you have blonde, white, or gray hair, laser hair removal is not effective. Not only will it not have any effect on reducing such hair, but it may also harm your skin. Even people with red hair don't have enough pigment to absorb laser hair energy, so the hair follicles won't be destroyed as a result.
12. Thrombophlebitis
Phlebitis means inflammation of the veins, and thrombo refers to blood clotting. If veins, especially leg veins, become inflamed, and this inflammation is accompanied by blood clotting and thrombosis, thrombophlebitis occurs, which is also abbreviated as phlebitis. In such cases, laser hair removal should not be performed because it increases the risk of blood clot formation and the associated diseases and complications, including a higher risk of embolism.
13. Consumers of photosensitive drugs
A list of drugs that can increase skin sensitivity to light includes phenothiazines, fluoroquinolones, doxycycline, sulfonamides, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), retinoids, blood glucose-lowering medications, diuretics (urine-increasing medications), enalapril, amiodarone, diltiazem, hydroxychloroquine, quinine, warfarin, and medications containing gold (these are used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis).
What are the contraindications for laser hair removal?
1. Presence of keloids on your skin: Keloids are raised, reddish scars that form over damaged skin. It's important not to undergo laser hair removal on areas with keloids. Keloids can become more pronounced and may even spread after laser treatment. It's crucial to discuss any existing skin conditions or concerns with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before considering laser hair removal.
2. Hives and sensitive skin: Hives are superficial swelling in the skin that can manifest as color changes, typically red or pink. They can be acute, chronic, or inducible. These skin reactions can last between a few minutes to a maximum of 24 hours on the skin's surface. In cases of hives or sensitive skin, it's not advisable to undergo laser hair removal. If you have sensitive skin or a history of hives, it's recommended to consult with your physician before proceeding with laser hair removal, as the cooling tools used with lasers might exacerbate your condition.
In general, laser hair removal is contraindicated for individuals who have the following characteristics:
- If you have lupus or other light-sensitive conditions, laser hair removal is not recommended due to the light-based nature of lasers, which can be harmful to you.
- If you are using minoxidil for hair growth and thickness, it's better to postpone laser treatment until you've completed your minoxidil regimen because laser treatment may counteract its effects.
- For those with eczema and acne, laser hair removal can be done as long as there is no active infection on the affected areas; otherwise, laser treatment can spread the infection.
- While laser hair removal rarely causes wounds and burns, if you have keloids, it may lead to some extra tissue formation in areas where the skin has been affected by the laser.
- Individuals with skin conditions can undergo laser hair removal with a doctor's recommendation, but if the condition is severe, laser treatment may worsen it.
- Roaccutane (isotretinoin) usage not only makes the skin more sensitive but also significantly reduces the effectiveness of laser treatment.
- If you are pregnant, you should not undergo laser treatment.
- It's better not to have laser treatment if you have infected wounds in the areas you want to treat, as laser can easily spread infection to other parts of the body.
- Do not undergo laser treatment if you have recently tanned in a tanning bed or under the sun.
- If you have light, blonde hair and dark skin, laser hair removal may not be effective for you.
- Do not undergo laser treatment if you have active cold sores.
- If you have a tattoo in the area where you want to have laser hair removal
- If you have hormonal disorders, consult with a medical professional before considering laser treatment.
- The presence of vitamin A in your diet is a factor to consider. Excessive use of vitamin A and its precursor, beta-carotene, which makes the skin photosensitive, can be harmful. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, and excessive consumption of vitamin A and beta-carotene can lead to vitamin A toxicity. Therefore, it's important to be cautious when considering laser hair removal in such cases.
Laser hair removal can cause many diseases!
One of the ways to remove uterine waste and its excess substances is through the excess hair in the genital area. So, laser hair removal means retaining uterine waste that should be expelled from the uterus, ultimately causing dysfunction in the uterus. Laser hair removal in the underarm area also affects the heart and breasts, and excessive hair removal leads to uterine problems, causing uterine cancer, fibroids, myomas, and cysts.
Hair and nails are ways for the body to eliminate waste.
During puberty, hormonal changes cause hair growth in the armpits and other parts of the body. As you approach adulthood, you'll notice that the fine, nearly invisible hairs have thickened and changed. Initially, pubic hair grows, and then, approximately two years later, underarm hair appears. However, this process occurs at different ages for each individual, depending on their development.
The growth of excess hair on a woman's ears and nipples may indicate improper uterine function or menopause, and in this way, the body expels waste.
Having underarm hair actually comes with several benefits, including:
1. Body Temperature Regulation: One of the primary functions of underarm hair is to regulate body temperature. It can protect against excessively cold or hot weather that the sensitive underarm area comes into contact with.
2. Moisture Retention: Underarm hair helps in retaining moisture and reducing the rate of sweat production, preventing excessive sweating.
3. Friction Reduction: The presence of underarm hair reduces skin-to-skin contact, thus reducing sensitivity and friction, especially during physical activities. However, it's important to remember to trim these hairs to prevent the development of ingrown hairs.
4. Underarm hair releases chemical messengers known as pheromones, which are unique to each individual. These pheromones are naturally produced and secreted by the body to act as olfactory signals, particularly for attracting the opposite sex. In essence, underarm hair traps these pheromones and prevents them from dispersing.
5. Preventing discomforts and illnesses: Not shaving or waxing underarm hair can reduce the risk of sensitivity and protect the skin from exposure to chemicals, contamination, and dirt. For this reason, many medical professionals recommend not completely removing underarm hair at the root but rather trimming it to make it less conspicuous, allowing you to benefit from its advantages.
Using natural hair removal powder, is the best way to eliminate excess hair. This natural hair removal powder is known as "Noorah". It is a white powdered product made from a mixture of Limestone powder and orpiment. More than just a hair removal powder, it offers a multitude of benefits for both men and women.
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The reason for the presence of pubic hair:
None of the features in the human body are random; they have functional roles. However, many women (and some men) have a preference for grooming their private areas. To make a decision regarding grooming in this area, it's better to be aware of both the positive and negative aspects. What's not advisable is to base your decision on trends rather than personal preference.
Pubic hair serves several different roles:
- Creating a Barrier: It acts as a barrier to prevent external bacteria or viruses that can lead to infection or illness.
- Maintaining the Right Temperature: It helps maintain the appropriate temperature for the proper functioning of the female reproductive system.
- Retaining Odors: It can trap pheromones, which act as sexual signals to stimulate sexual desire in a partner.
- Reducing Friction: It helps prevent irritation in the genital area during sexual intercourse, as friction can cause redness and discomfort.
In summary, the presence of pubic hair plays multiple protective and functional roles in the body.
Trimming pubic hair with inappropriate methods can lead to the following issues:
Here are some other important facts you should be aware of.
- Genital hair removal is a personal choice. Many women like to remove the hair from their genital area, and they may use popular methods like laser hair removal or other trendy approaches, even though using natural hair removal powder (Noorah) is advised.
- Attention to skin diseases: Psoriasis or eczema can worsen with grooming. If you have these skin conditions, it's better to consult a doctor to find the best way to remove hair in that area. If you don't do this, your condition may worsen, and you might experience discomfort and significant pain.
- Not all types of grooming are hygienic. Many women prefer to groom their genital area in various ways, believing it contributes to better hygiene. However, the amount of pubic hair has no connection to body odor, but it is crucial to maintain personal hygiene.
- Removing excess hair with Noorah Natural hair removal powder, leads to sexual arousal. It is true that some women feel more confident and may have a better sexual experience after grooming their vaginal area. However, sexual satisfaction is not primarily determined by the amount of pubic hair. It often depends on the individual preferences and mutual satisfaction of both partners. What matters most is communication, comfort, and mutual consent within a sexual relationship.
Note:
The best and safest way to remove excess hair is to use Noorah hair removal powder. This powder reduces black bile in the body, and not only does it have no side effects, but it also strengthens the body, removes excess hair, opens skin pores, and increases sexual desire. Hairs are the outlets for toxins and excess substances in the body, and if hair removal is done, especially through laser, these outlets are closed, and these substances may appear in other parts of the body in the form of spots, skin blemishes, glandular problems, cancer, and other diseases.