Laser Hair Removal
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Imagine a world with no more razors, waxing, or painful electrolysis! Thanks to modern laser hair removal systems such as the GentleYAG®, you can bid goodbye to constant shaving and waxing and say hello to soft and silky-smooth skin, minus the pain and discomfort.
Laser hair removal is a popular procedure that provides smooth, hair-free skin with minimal downtime. Unlike temporary hair removal methods, laser hair removal targets hair follicles to inhibit future growth, providing long-lasting reduction rather than just removing the hair shafts. Safe and effective, our laser hair removal provides a quicker and more comfortable way to deal with unwanted hair without damaging the skin. It offers a long-lasting solution suitable for all skin tones and types.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Lasers work by emitting specialised light that is passed through the skin and absorbed primarily by the hair. The laser used in hair removal targets the melanin in the hair follicle, thus damaging the follicle and removing the hair.
One popular laser hair removal option in Singapore is the GentleYAG® laser. With a 1064 nm wavelength, this laser targets the hair follicle at its base for effective removal. The GentleYAG® system works well with all skin types, including dark or tan skin tones with dark hair.
What Areas of the Body Can Be Treated by Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is safe enough to be used on all body parts, including the face, upper lip, back, underarms, arms, bikini line, and legs.
Who Is Suitable for Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is safe and effective for any skin tone and type. However, laser hair removal may not be suitable for:
- Individuals with light blonde, red, grey, or white hair
- Pregnant women
- Individuals taking certain medications, such as photosensitising drugs
- Individuals actively using tanning products and acne treatments
- Individuals with certain conditions, such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and a history of keloid and skin cancer
Remember, it is always best to consult a dermatologist before undergoing a laser hair removal procedure. They can offer personalised guidance and create a treatment plan tailored to individual needs and concerns.
How Do I Prepare Myself Before the Laser Hair Removal Procedure?
You are advised to follow these instructions prior to your laser hair removal appointment:
- Stay out of the sun and avoid self-tanning at least six weeks before the session. If sun exposure is unavoidable, ensure to apply full-spectrum sunscreen.
- Shave or trim the treatment site one day before the procedure. Doing so allows the lasers to better reach the follicles and reduces the risk of skin damage from burnt hair.
- Avoid other hair removal methods like plucking, waxing or electrolysis four weeks before scheduled treatment. These can damage the hair follicles and reduce the effectiveness of the laser treatment.
- Avoid applying skincare and cosmetic products prior to the treatment. These may contain chemicals that can irritate the skin following the procedure.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Tight garments can cause mild discomfort or irritation after the treatment.
What Can I Expect with the Laser Hair Removal Procedure?
Before the procedure, the doctor will clean the treatment area and, depending on the type of laser used, apply contact cooling to protect the skin and minimise the risk of side effects. Laser hair removal gives a prickly or light rubber-band snapping sensation. You may not need any type of anaesthesia for your treatments. However, if larger or sensitive areas are to be treated, a topical anaesthesia cream may be applied one hour before treatment.
The doctor will then carefully manoeuvre the hand-held laser device, allowing the laser beam to penetrate the skin and target hair follicles. Laser hair removal gives a prickly or light rubber-band snapping sensation. The treated hair may not fall out immediately and can take up to two weeks to shed completely from the targeted follicles.
Factors Affecting the Effectiveness of Laser Hair Removal
Several factors can affect the effectiveness of laser hair removal treatments, such as:
Skin Type and Colour
– Laser hair removal tends to work best for dark hair and light skin. For darker skin tones, certain lasers like GentleYAG® are still effective.Hair Colour and Thickness
– Laser hair removal targets dark pigment in hair follicles. Dark hair works best, while blonde, red, and grey may see less benefit.Sun Exposure
– Prolonged sun exposure before or after laser hair removal treatment can damage the skin and affect laser energy absorption, raising the risk of burns and dark spots.Certain Medications
– Taking certain medications following a laser procedure may impact the skin's sensitivity and response to laser treatments.
How Long Does Each Laser Hair Removal Session Take?
The upper lip and chin can be done in five minutes. Underarms or bikini lines usually take 10–15 minutes. Legs and back will take a longer time.
Post-Treatment Care and Recovery
Patients should follow the proper post-treatment care instructions provided by the doctor to ensure optimal healing and maintain the desired results of laser hair removal. Here are some aftercare guidelines:
- Limit UV exposure for at least 2–3 weeks (direct sunlight, tanning beds, etc.)
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF when going outside
- Use cool compresses or prescribed moisturisers
- Refrain from applying makeup or harsh skincare products onto the treated area
- Refrain from taking hot baths and exercising immediately after treatment
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal?
Side effects are few, most of which are minor and temporary. These include:
- Pigment changes in the skin, such as lightening (hypopigmentation) or darkening (hyperpigmentation) may occur, but they usually fade over time.
- Skin redness, swelling, and irritation are common following the procedure but will disappear several hours later.
Very rarely, laser hair removal results in blistering, burning, or scarring.
Is Hair Removal Permanent?
Permanent reduction in hair growth is achieved in 70–80% of individuals treated, and the best results are achieved after multiple treatments. A few hairs may start to regrow over time, so ‘touch-up’ treatments may be needed.
How Many Sessions Do I Need for Laser Hair Removal?
Hair goes through different growth phases, and lasers work most effectively against hair that is in the active growth phase. Initially, it is recommended that you undergo a series of 4–8 treatments at intervals of 4–8 weeks, depending on the area treated. Arm and leg hairs tend to be the easiest to remove compared to those on the face, upper lip, and chin.
What Are the Benefits of Getting Laser Hair Removal?
Among the many hair removal methods available today, laser hair removal remains the preferred choice and for good reason. Its benefits include:
Minimal to No Side Effects
– Side effects are mostly temporary and rare. There is also no occurrence of ingrown hairs.Cost-efficient
– It saves more time and money as compared to countless hours of plucking or shaving and buying razors, shaving creams, and wax treatments.Precise
– Lasers can effectively target the hair follicles without damaging the surrounding skin.Fast
– The laser can work on several follicles in a single pulse, which takes a fraction of a second. The procedure is relatively quick, depending on the size of the treatment site.Effective
– Most patients achieve permanent hair loss after 3–7 laser hair removal sessions.
Under the hands of an experienced dermatologist, laser hair removal is your best bet for having permanently hairless and smooth skin. Specialist Skin Clinic is an established and accredited provider of medical and cosmetic dermatological services, such as laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, acne management, and laser removal of freckles, tattoos, and birthmarks. To schedule an appointment, call +65 6734 1411.
FAQs on Laser Hair Removal
How much does laser hair removal cost in Singapore?
What is the difference between laser hair removal and IPL treatment?
Do I need to shave before getting laser hair removal?
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