What is the best laser for hair removal?
There are several types of Lasers available in the market. For instance Argon, Electrolysis, Nd:Yag Laser, Ruby Laser, Pulsed Diode Array, Alexandrite & Light Sheer Diode Laser. All these lasers are used with varying effect on different skin types. All these LASERS have been reported to be helpful in various scientific papers. But this is entirely down to the expertise of the technician administering the treatment.
Why do we prefer the Diode LASER used at Visakha Institute of Skin & Allergy, Visakhapatnam?
In Indian (dark skin) types, the Diode LASER is the most effective and safest laser for hair removal and this is what we will be using to treat your skin. The laser works by disabling hairs that are in their active growth cycle at the time of treatment.
The laser emits an invisible light which penetrates the skin without damaging it. At the hair follicle, the laser light absorbed by the pigments is converted into heat. This heat will damage the follicle.
Since other hairs will enter their growth cycle at different times, multiple treatments will be necessary.
How many treatments are needed?
Total number of treatments will vary between individuals but usually 4-8 treatments/ sessions are needed. The usual interval between each course if 3-6 weeks. On occasion (rarely) there are patients who would need regular treatments once-twice per year, after their initial course. However this is very rare and usually happens if there is any underlying hormonal abnormality like PCOS.
Risk and complications
This list is not meant to be inclusive of all possible risks and complications associated with laser-assisted hair removal, as there are both known and unknown side effects associated with any procedure. The possible side effects of laser hair removal include but are not limited to:
• Risk of scarring, very rare.
• Hyper-pigmentation (darkening) and hypo-pigmentation (lightening.) These conditions usually resolve within 3-6 weeks, but permanent color change is a rare risk. Avoiding sun exposure before and after the treatment reduces your risk.
• Mild pain, blistering, burning, itching and stinging sensation at the site of treatment.
Anticipated Benefits
• Reduction in the number of dark coarse hairs.
• It may take 14-30 days for shedding of hair to occur.
Contraindications
• Anyone who suffers from certain medical conditions such as lupus, diabetes or epilepsy, should not have laser treatments without consulting with your physician first. Please discuss this with your provider prior to treatment.
• Treatment of Dermal fillers or Botox/Dysport within the past 4 weeks if treating the face area.
• Laser light is drawn to dark pigment; this will not work for people with very light blonde, red, grey or white hair.
• Accutane within the past 12 months. Tetracycline and Retin A should be discontinued for 5-7 days prior.
• People that are sunburned or recent sun exposure to the treated area, 2-3 weeks prior to treatment.
• Laser Peel, Chemical peel or a Microdermabrasion performed within the past 2 weeks if treating the face area.
• If you are pregnant.
Dr. Sasi Kiran Attili, Dermatologist & Cosmetologist, will discuss all this in detail at your first consultation.
