Laser hair removal is a popular option for people who want to get rid of unwanted body and facial hair. It’s fast and efficient, but many people have questions about how painful laser hair removal really is.
In this article, we’ll discuss the potential pain associated with laser hair removal treatments and provide tips on how to reduce discomfort during your session.
What is Laser Hair Removal and How Does it Work?
Laser hair is a safe and effective way to permanently remove unwanted body hair. The treatment uses a beam of light to target and destroy hair follicles, thereby eliminating unwanted hair. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment in the hair, which then destroys the follicle without damaging the surrounding skin.
Laser hair removal usually requires multiple sessions, with each session lasting anywhere from 10 to 60+ minutes depending on the size of the area being treated. The number of treatments required for each patient depends on several factors including hair type and color, skin tone, and desired results.
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Generally speaking, laser hair removal can cause some level of discomfort, but it varies from patient to patient. Some report feeling only a slight stinging sensation during the procedure while others may experience more intense pain such as burning or prickling. The amount of discomfort felt also depends on the patient’s individual pain tolerance and sensitivity levels. For those who’re especially prone to discomfort, many clinics offer topical anesthetics to numb the area prior to treatment if needed.
In addition, different laser treatments have varying pain levels associated with them. For instance, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Alexandrite lasers are typically reported as having more intense sensations than Diode lasers, which tend to be more gentle. It is important for patients to discuss their needs and concerns with their provider prior to their treatment in order to determine the best option for them. By asking questions about the type of laser being used and discussing options for reducing discomfort, you can ensure your experience with laser hair removal is as comfortable as possible.
How to Prepare for Laser Hair Removal Treatment
To minimize potential discomfort, it’s essential to take certain precautions prior to a laser hair removal session.
First, it’s important to ensure that the area being treated is completely clean and free from dirt and bacteria prior to the treatment. This may involve using an antibacterial soap or cleaning solution before each appointment. Additionally, avoid using any skin products or applying additional makeup in the days leading up to your appointment since these can interfere with the laser’s effectiveness.
It is also advisable to stay out of direct sunlight in the weeks leading up to your session. UV rays can make skin more sensitive and potentially lead to scarring and irritation after your treatment.
Another helpful tip for reducing pain during laser hair removal sessions is shaving prior to your appointment. This reduces some of the discomfort associated with laser treatments by minimizing the amount of heat generated during the procedure. It also keeps hairs short so they will be easier for lasers to target and destroy.
Finally, inform your provider about any medication you are taking or changes in your health since your last appointment as this could affect how safe and effective laser hair removal treatments are for you. Taking these steps will help you minimize the discomfort you experience during your laser hair removal sessions.
How to Manage Post-Treatment Discomfort
After your laser hair removal treatment, it’s advisable to adhere to the following tips in order to avoid experience serious discomfort:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if necessary
- Use cold compresses to reduce the possible swelling and soreness
- Avoid direct sunlight and apply sunblock after treatments
- Wear loose clothing that doesn’t rub against the treated area
- Refrain from taking hot baths, swimming in chlorinated pools, using a Jacuzzi, exercising vigorously or going into saunas for 24 hours after treatment
- Clean the treatment area daily with a mild cleanser
- Refrain from using any perfumes, creams or other products on the treated area for at least 24 hours after treatment
- Avoid plucking, waxing or tweezing the treated hair in between treatments
- Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or become more severe over time.
Laser Hair Removal is not usually painful, but some people may experience slight discomfort during and/or after their treatment due to skin sensitivity. The aforementioned tips will help you manage any post-treatment discomfort. As long as you take the proper precautions, you can achieve long-lasting hair reduction and enjoy smooth skin.
Conclusion
Since laser hair removal can involve some discomfort, it’s best to consult your provider before committing to the treatment to ensure it will be safe and effective for you. With the proper preparation and knowledge, you can enjoy smooth skin without worrying about painful side effects from laser hair removal.
Contact Bella Medspa today to learn more about whether laser hair removal may be right for you.