There is lots of talk these days about laser hair removal. "Should I?", "Shouldn't I?, "Will it work for me?", "Is it going to hurt?", "Will it be permanent?" "Can I afford it?" are just some of the questions on most people's minds when they think about using lasers to remove unwanted hair. The reason we all have so many unanswered questions is that there are so many conflicting opinions. There are those that claim it's totally safe, effective and even a permanent solution on one extreme and those who say it's dangerous and not effective at all on the other extreme. So, from these two extremes in thinking, it's probably safe to say that the truth lies somewhere in between.

Let's first take a look at each extreme a little more deeply.

Yes, there are those that say using lasers to remove unwanted hair is safe and effective. You hear about it and see things written about it everywhere that claim it's the only method you should consider. Why, they even claim that it's pain free, it's relatively comfortable (Doesn't that term relatively make you wonder?), time saving, cost effective, the perfect hair removal, a permanent solution, a quick long lasting treatment and the list goes on and on. It's actually enough to make your head spin.

However on the other extreme you hear and see things written like permanent scarring, severe burns, skin discoloration, (These alone are enough to make my skin begin to itch and burn.) not effective, time consuming with very little results, very expensive, requires many treatments, and this list also goes on and on.

So what is one to believe and how do you go about making a decision as to, "Yes I'll give it a shot." or "No, never!", and run for the hills in fear? (Well perhaps that's a little extreme but I hope you get the idea.)

My best advice is to check everything out carefully, get all the facts, compare results against your own particular risks based on your skin type, hair color and skin sensitivities. Also, your particular tolerances for pain, your ability to sit still for extended periods of time and the cost involved definitely all need to be taken into account. No one knows these thing about your skin, body, personality or pocketbook better than you and all of these issues will have a profound effect on the outcome of any laser hair removal you might be considering for yourself.

Oh and before I forget, make sure you know what you're looking for in the way of equipment, technician credentials and the reputation of the clinic you are considering using before you decide that lasers are worth trying out for your particular needs. And one more thing start out slow and easy. Have just a small section done in an inconspicuous spot to see how it works out for you before taking on the other larger or more exposed areas of your body or face.