Harm of laser hair removal: is it worth abandoning the procedure

Laser hair removal — a popular procedure that radically solves the problem of excess hair on the body. For those who are tired of shaving, wax strips, depilatory creams — this is the perfect solution.

This type of hair removal has been used all over the world for more than 20 years. However the technology is still controversial about its safety       

Harm of laser hair removal — Is this pure speculation or a proven fact? The editorial staff of estet-portal.com proposes to analyze the most popular myths about modern methods.

• What is laser hair removal: how does it work and who is contraindicated
• Harm of laser hair removal: debunking the myths
• Summing up: is whether to do laser hair removal

What is laser hair removal: how does it work and who is contraindicated

Laser hair removal uses highly concentrated beams of light that destroy hair follicles. Light affects only the upper layer of the skin, not penetrating deep inside. This treatment is very effective, but it takes several sessions to achieve the desired results. Depending on individual characteristics, the course can be 5-8 procedures. They take place with an interval of 4-6 weeks so the total cycle lasts more than half a year. Between sessions, you can not use any depilatory products, except for a razor.

It must be understood that any procedure has contraindications. Laser hair removal is no exception.

Relative contraindications:

• Dermatological diseases.

• Varicose veins.

• Burns and other injuries at irradiation site.

• Pregnancy and lactation.

• Moles and papillomas.

• Allergy in exacerbation period.

• Infectious diseases.

• Tan. Laser exposure is only allowed 2 weeks after tanning.

• Grey and blonde hair. In this case, the procedure will be ineffective. The laser only destroys the dark color pigment.

Absolute contraindications for chronic diseases:

• Diabetes mellitus.

• Oncology.

• Hormonal disorders.

• Pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

In any case, before deciding to remove hair with a laser, consult a doctor and find out if this procedure is contraindicated for you.

Harm of laser hair removal: debunking the myths

Myth 1. Causes cancer

Fact: Laser hair removal does not cause cancer. Lasers are often used to treat various forms of skin cancer. The radiation that is used is very small and acts only on the surface of the skin, without affecting the internal organs. A high probability of getting skin cancer from frequent visits to the solarium. For artificial tanning, ultraviolet waves (320-400 nm) are used. They have an oncogenic effect.

Read also: Harm and the benefits of a solarium: is it possible is it safe to tan

Myth 2. May cause infertility

Fact: indeed, intense radiation can cause problems with the reproductive organs. However, the level of radiation from  laser hair removal does not even approach the level of an x-ray. As mentioned above, the effect of the rays is so minimal that it does not reach the internal organs and does not affect fertility.

Myth 3. Laser hair removal permanently eliminates hair growth

Fact: The procedure destroys the hair roots. However, the laser only removes  70-80% of hair. It is impossible to destroy every follicle. Therefore, cosmetologists advise to conduct preventive sessions once every six months after the end of the full cycle. The frequency of maintenance depends entirely on the individual characteristics of hair growth.

Myth 4. This is a very painful procedure

Fact: Everyone has their own pain threshold. For some, laser hair removal delivers a very unpleasant sensation, while someone tolerates it calmly. In any case, this procedure is more loyal than the use of wax strips. To reduce pain, cosmetologists use local anesthesia — cooling gels or ice.

Myth 5. Laser hair removal only works on face

Fact: Rumors that laser hair removal is only effective on the face are unreliable. It can be used to remove hair on large areas of the body: back, belly, bikini area, armpits, neck, arms and legs. The only area to avoid — these are the eyelids and the skin around the eyes.

Myth 6. Hair grows under the skin

Fact: This is not  true. The laser beam completely destroys the follicles, so new hairs do not appear, and therefore there is nothing to grow in. Such a side effect can be observed after waxing.

Myth 7. Scarring

Fact: Scarring is only possible with electrolysis. The procedure involves the introduction of thin needles under the skin. With laser hair removal, the integrity of the skin is not disturbed, which means that scarring is impossible.

Summing up: is doing laser hair removal

There are a lot of rumors about laser hair removal in the world. They can be quite scary and embarrassing. However, most of what you hear about laser hair removal is not true. Nevertheless, a consultation with a dermatologist and a therapist will save you from unnecessary risks.

For a safe and effective procedure, always consult a licensed medical professional. Laser hair removal — a safe way to remove unwanted hair if done right.

Read also: Women's "mustache": how to remove pigmentation above the upper lip

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