FAQ on Laser Hair Removal

It's common for an individual to ask questions when they go in for a consultation for any sort of treatment or diagnosis. There is no exception when it comes to Laser Treatment in Dubai.

The Cosmetic Dermatology in Dubai at the Montreal International Clinics, offers to answer some of those most asked questions during a consultation.

How does laser hair removal work?

Typically, when a laser is used, it causes localized damage to the hair by selectively heating dark target matter, melanin, in areas where this is hair growth, the follicle, while not causing any heat to penetrate the skin.

Are all lasers the same or are they different?

All lasers are not the same. There are different types of lasers, but two of the most effective types of lasers that are used today are the Alexandrite and Nd YAG. They each have their different benefits.

The Alexandrite is beneficial for the following,

·         Attracted to melanin, treats hair and pigmented lesions

·         Great on fair skin types

·         Not recommended for other types of skin

·         No sun exposure for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment.

·         Better on thin hair

·         A minimum level of discomfort

·         A very effective laser

The Nd YAG has the following benefits,

·         Safe for every skin type

·         Can be used on skin that is exposed to the sun

·         Effective on thick and coarse hair

·         Not ideal for thin textured hair

·         Those with sensitive skin may feel a slight discomfort during the treatment

How many treatments will be needed?

It depends on the area being treated, how thick and dense the hair is and the skin type, which is different from person to person. A patient may need up to four to six Laser Hair Removal Dubai treatments, with a few follow up visits.

Coarse, thick hair will take longer to treat than fine hair, but an initial consultation with an experienced Dermatologist in Dubai will give you an idea of what to expect.

Laser treatment will only affect the specific structures of the hair and follicle, leaving the surrounding tissue undamaged. Since, the hair will grow in several phases, and a laser can only affect the currently active growing hair follicles, the patient will need several sessions to reduce and kill hair in all phases of growth.

Can all hair colors be treated with laser hair removal?

No.  Most Laser hair removal devices are not effective on light-colored hair, red hair, grey hair, white hair, as well as fine hair of any color. Coarse dark hair on light skin is easiest to treat.

What is the most common side-effects and risks of laser hair removal?

The most common risks associated with laser hair removal are skin irritation and minor pigment changes. In certain rare cases, the patient may experience blisters or scarring. However, post treatment some of the most common side effects include itching, redness, and swelling around the treatment area. The good news is that side effects rarely last more than three days.

Some of the unwanted side effects and risks of laser hair removal include,  hypo- or hyper-pigmentation, blistering, scarring, skin texture changes, flare of acne, swelling around the hair follicle, scab formation, purpura, infection and burning of the skin.

Who is not a good candidate for laser hair removal?

For those who have any of these conditions or are taking any of the medication listed below, then you CANNOT be treated with laser hair removal.

·         Pregnancy

·         Suffer from light induced seizures

·         Anyone taking photo-sensitive medication

·         Accutane

·         Anticoagulants

·         Have a history of skin cancer

·         Suspicious pigmented lesions

·         Lupus

·         Herpes

How do I prepare for laser hair removal?

To prepare for laser hair removal, it is recommended that a potential candidate stops waxing or plucking unwanted hair four to five weeks before the treatment. About 24 hours prior to the treatment, the physician may recommend that the candidate shave the treatment area of all existing hair. By shaving, the candidate is reducing the amount of discomfort they may feel during the procedure and prevent hair and skin from being burned by the laser. Here are a few guidelines,

·         No waxing, tweezing, or electrolysis for 4 weeks before the treatment

·         Those who have fair skin should avoid sun exposure for at least 4 weeks

·         Those who have darker skin should avoid sun exposure for 3-5 days

·         No threading for 10 days

·         No self-tanner for 14 days

·         No make-up, lotion or deodorant should be worn on the day of the treatment

·         No topical Retin-A for 3-5 days

·         No oral Retin-A for 3 weeks

·         No Accutane for 6 months

What is the recovery time for laser hair removal?

After the procedure the patient's skin may appear red or irritated and this will last for a few days. Make sure to avoid exposure to the sun or sun block for a few weeks after the procedure, and avoid any plucking or waxing of the treatment area.

What can be expected after laser hair removal?

Soon after the treatment, patients can apply cold compresses to the area to help alleviate any discomfort. Within a few weeks after the procedure, most patients may notice some new hair growth from the treated hair follicles, and may need multiple treatments. The overall results of each treatment rely greatly on an individual’s skin tone, hair type, and growth phase of the hair in the area that is treated. Laser hair removal cannot prevent hair from growing completely, but after multiple treatments, it can significantly reduce the amount of unwanted growth.

Are there any effective alternatives to laser hair removal?

Alternatives to laser hair removal includes home waxing, plucking, hair bleaching, and chemical depilatories, however, they are not as effective as laser hair removal.