Often times when doing consultations for laser hair removal I find clients come into the spa with a great deal of misinformation about laser hair removal, and the concentrated fear that the most horrible side effects will happen to their skin. Well I am here to clarify the awful stories you hear from the media, newspapers, friends and family.

 In this article you will find the import  FAQ  about hair removal and I hope to put an end to the worries and fears that hold you back. Laser hair removal is a miraculous way to remove hair and live free from, ugly bumps from shaving, ingrown hairs, cuts and what ever else we have to endure when removing hair.

I am a licensed esthetician in three states, and all the laws vary from each state on the workings of which professional is allowed to do laser hair removal (nurse, doctor esthetician). I work in the state of New York, where you do not have to have an esthetics licenses to run a laser, with that being said do your research before you permit anyone to consult you on any laser treatments. A colleague of mine in the same field for years, proved to me at a previous place she worked, they hired an ex banker with zero skills to administer laser treatments. This hired employee had two week training coarse then was allowed to perform laser hair removal to the public without supervision. For this reason my colleague left the practice as she didn’t trust in their policies. I have been an esthetician for ten years, and yearly will take continuing education classes, to always be up to date on my skills. First task I recommend is read reviews on the establishment you are going to visit, and have your questions ready. Your consultation should be at least 20-25 minutes for you to gather all the information you need to know. Second, when you speak to receptionist to make appointment ask how long technician has been performing laser treatments.

FAQ

1. Will laser remove ALL my hair forever? The answer to that is no, and if anyone tells you otherwise they are simply trying to make a sale. Depending on the body part laser hair removals is normally about 80 to 85% reduction give or take. As we age and hormones and body changes we can produce more hair growth years after treatments. This can result in follow up treatments.

2. How many treatments will I need? Most of us need at least 6-8 effective treatments. Since hair grows in cycles (Anagen active, Catagen club hair, Telogen tired), several sessions are necessary in order to affect all hair on any given area. Due to length of hair growth cycles, treatments are usually needed once every 4-12 weeks.

3. Is hair removal painful? In one pulse, laser removes all the hair on a patch of skin the size of a nickel or a quarter. Generally, laser hair removal is not much more painful than waxing, though the sensation is different. With each pulse, the feeling resembles a rubber band snapping against the skin for a quick second. Pain is only felt while laser is hitting the skin and doesn’t last. Most people do not

require an anesthetic cream, though one can be prescribed to more sensitive patients. EMLA is one popular option.

4. How often do I come for treatments? Normally, it’s best to do a treatment every 4-12 weeks up until the suggested amount of treatments. The laser works in the active growth stage, finding the pigment color in the hair then making its way to follicle.

· Laser Hair Removal Risks or Side Effects? Some people may experience the following potential temporary side effects:

* Itching

* Redness for up to 3 days

* Swelling around mouth of follicle for up to 3 days

* Tingling or feeling of numbness

The following rare side effects are indicative of inappropriate laser type and/or settings:

* Crusting/scab formation

* Bruising

* Purpura (purple coloring of the skin)

* Temporary pigment change (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation)

Remember to wear sun protection during laser sessions even in the winter, laser is attracted do color and even the slightest change in skin color there is a risk the laser could pick that up and cause damage to skin. During laser treatments it’s best to only shave with a razor or an electric razor, tweezing and waxing pulls hair out from follicle and the laser will have nothing to attract to.

Laser hair removal is the easiest and safe way to achieve permanent hair reduction. Make an appointment for a consultation and make your way to being hair free forever. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

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Author-Linda Montgomery, a Rhode Island native calls the Poconos, Pennsylvania home. Linda is a licensed medical esthetician in 3 states, and currently manages a Medical Spa in Pelham, New York. Linda has been fortunate over 12 years to train with several of the finest doctors in the cosmetic/dermatology field. Linda loves to spend her free time on the mountain and beach with her husband, friends and her three adoring dogs.

If you would like to have Linda write an article or help you with any questions related to cosmetic esthetics please add Linda on Diva Café to your network of friends, or email at wildmango@hotmail.com.