Laser hair removal is a procedure that uses a high intensity light beam to damage the hair follicles that are producing unwanted hair. It is often used for facial hair growth in females and works best on darker hair that is combined with light skin. It is not a complete cure for unwanted hair since it is generally repeated several times before it is effective and requires follow up treatments in order to stay effective.

Laser hair removal does have risks associated with it, although most of them are mild and easily treated. A change in the pigmentation of the skin can temporarily make skin lighter or darker if the setting used on the laser is incorrect. This is temporary and the skin will return to the normal color after it has had time to recover. Some irritation of the skin is also possible with laser hair removal. Irritation can range from slight sensitivity in the treated area to scabbing of the treated skin. Treatment with an antibiotic cream will return the skin to normal quickly.

In rare cases, laser hair removal has caused changes in skin texture such as scarring or blistering. This is also treatable but could prevent further laser hair removal treatments.

Laser hair removal generally takes a minimum of 6 to 8 treatments to achieve a complete stop of hair growth as well as maintenance treatments afterwards to remove any growth from dormant hair follicles. The treatments are spaced 6 to 10 weeks apart in order to allow the hair growth to complete all three of the growing phases of hair. Treatments range between $200 to $1000 each, depending on the area of the body that is being treated.

If you decide on using laser hair removal to treat unwanted hair, the physician will take a detailed medical history to eliminate any conditions or medications that may cause problems with the treatment. It is advisable to avoid the sun or any sunless tanning products that will darken your skin. An existing tan from either source will need time to lighten before the treatment is given.

Depending on what type of hair removal you are currently using, you may be asked to stop using it before the treatment. Plucking, depilatories and waxing may damage follicles, making the it more likely for the treatment to fail or cause side effects.