While the hair removal treatment using a specially designed laser machine is under dermatology’s domain, many healthcare providers can also medically advise using the treatment. For example, a doctor may recommend laser hair removal for women with hirsutism, which is excessive hair growth on the face and lower abdomen. Doctors may also recommend laser hair removal for people with hypertrichosis (excessive body hair grown in an atypical or typical pattern).
What is laser hair removal?
Although a licensed dermatologist performs the process, laser hair removal is a medical procedure. The process uses a laser beam for the safe removal of unwanted hair from different body parts. The pigment or melanin in the hair absorbs the laser light, which turns into heat to damage the hair follicles and effectively delay or inhibit hair growth in the future. It is important to ensure that the cosmetology clinic you will go to uses a professional laser hair removal machine for safely and precisely removing of unwanted hair.
Why do people need treatment?
Aside from the various medical conditions where doctors recommend laser hair removal, many people want the treatment because it is the best option for regular shaving, waxing, plucking, and other traditional methods for removing unwanted hair, which take time and can be painful, and result in inflammation and infection.
Some people want smooth skin, so they go for hair removal treatments. But more people need laser hair removal because of their professions. For example, many athletes have to remove their body hair, such as professional cyclists, runners, bodybuilders, swimmers, rock climbers, and contact sports athletes, because it reduces drag, adds to their speed, keeps them safe from snags, and defines their muscles. Professional models and celebrities do it for aesthetic reasons.
Although the treatment is safe, there are some exceptions, like the eyelids and the surrounding areas. Moreover, people with tattoos cannot avail of the treatment. People in the stage of puberty and menopause, as well as those who are pregnant, should not go for laser hair removal.
Preparing for the treatment
Go to a licensed dermatologist for laser hair removal. The doctor will help you prepare for the treatment to minimize risks and side effects.
The doctor should schedule a consultation to determine if the treatment is right for you. Your doctor will review your medical history, check what medications you take, your skin’s history of scarring and other disorders, and if you’ve had previous procedures for hair removal. The doctor should also discuss the benefits, risks, and expectations and explain what laser hair removal can and cannot do, and take photos to use before and after assessments. The doctor will also use the photo for long-term reviews. The dermatologist will also give you specific instructions to prepare for the hair removal treatment.
Be sure you are ready for the laser hair removal treatment because it can be costly. You cannot charge it to your health insurance because health insurance companies consider it an out-of-pocket expense. Discuss the treatment plan with your doctor to ensure you achieve the desired results.
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