If you hate shaving, are tired of putting up with painful waxing, tweezing, depilatory creams, and all of the time that removing unwanted facial or body hair can take, laser hair removal may be right for you. Getting rid of unwanted hair can be painful and time consuming. Until now, the only options for removing unwanted hair were smelly removal creams, sharp razors, stinging wax or painful electrolysis needles.

This treatment is supposed to be a safe process, yet dubious claims and inappropriate equipment still lead to scams and injuries. Consumers themselves must know the ins and outs of this technique to prevent themselves from getting cheated. The effects of this technique can be permanent, but there is no guarantee. The result of the treatment does not necessarily mean the area will be completely devoid of hair. While permanent removal can occur, the procedure may simply result in reducing the amount of hair in the treated area, or it can lighten the color of the hair and decrease its thickness. Results vary from patient to patient, so please check with your doctor.

Hair color and skin type are the key factors that influence the success of this technique. It's most successful on people with dark hair and light skin. However, it can also be used on people with darker skin types. During the procedure, you wear goggles to prevent accidental exposure of your eyes to laser light. When this light is activated, you feel a stinging sensation. Oftentimes a topical local anesthetic is applied before the procedure to reduce discomfort. The procedure causes a slight charring of stubble. You may notice a strong odor of singed hair, which is normal. How long the procedure takes depends on the area of the body involved. A small area such as the upper lip may take several minutes. A larger area such as the back may require several hours.

Lasers now give skin care professionals the opportunity to offer a series of treatments that are predicated by the hair growth cycles of the body that allow for a very precise method of removing hair on a permanent basis. Lasers produce a very specific form of energy, which is represented as photons or light energy. This light specifically targets the individual hair follicles in an effort to heat them. This heat, which is a bi-product of the light, then acts to disable the follicle and impair its ability to grow. The net result is, of course, long term removal.

Within about 30 minutes of treatment, the area may become pink or red. Clients describe it as mild sunburn, and this reaction usually subsides within a day or so. Because the laser does not damage the skin, no bandages are necessary. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe a topical cream to apply to the treated areas.

After treatment:

Avoid exercise and exertion for the first 24 hours. Perspiration from exertion may increase irritation caused by the laser.

Avoid exposure to the sun for several weeks after treatment. After this period, make sure you apply sunscreen whenever you're in the sun. Avoid tanning booths ? the ultraviolet light damages the skin.

Don't wax or pluck hairs between treatments.

Don't pick at or manipulate the skin in treated areas.

Don't rub or scrub the treated area. You may gently wash the area with soap and water.