At our hospital, FDA-approved laser devices are used for laser hair removal. The laser beams used in epilation are not beams that penetrate the skin; in fact, they are beams that specifically target the hair follicles even within the skin. Therefore, they do not damage other elements of the skin. The number of sessions varies between 6-9, depending on factors such as skin type, body area, hormonal balance, and hair color. For women experiencing increased hair growth in areas such as the sideburns, upper lip, chin, neck, areola, mid-chest, or abdomen, the Dermatology Specialist evaluates the necessary hormonal tests before the laser hair removal and begins the required treatments. This approach helps prevent prolonged laser sessions and accelerates the removal of unwanted hair.
Human skin is transparent to light. Hair, however, does not transmit light because it contains a significant amount of melanin, a black pigment that absorbs light. In laser hair removal, the laser light becomes highly concentrated in the hair follicle and transforms into heat energy. This heat causes permanent damage to the hair follicle and the cells responsible for hair production, leading to the loss of the follicle's ability to produce hair. Thus, after successive sessions, the hair is permanently removed. Since other parts of the skin are transparent to light, no side effects occur in these areas because the heat does not concentrate there.
Compared to needle epilation, laser hair removal is a painless and much quicker procedure. For example, laser hair removal can clean unwanted hair from the upper lip in 1-2 minutes and underarms in 3-5 minutes. Laser hair removal can be applied to large areas or even the entire body in a single session. If hygiene is not followed, diseases like AIDS, Hepatitis B, and C can be transmitted with needle epilation. However, such risks do not exist with laser hair removal. Additionally, laser hair removal does not leave scars.
To achieve successful results in laser hair removal, it is important to choose the appropriate laser type and dose based on skin color and hair structure. Regularly repeating sessions ensures faster and more successful results.
Laser hair removal has been safely used in medicine for approximately 30-40 years. Over the last 10-15 years, it has become widely applied. Additionally, laser hair removal does not have any cancer-causing effects. However, laser hair removal should not be applied to various moles or brown spots without the decision of a dermatology specialist.
Our body’s hair goes through the growth (anagen), rest (catagen), and shedding (telogen) phases. Depending on the area, approximately 30-70% of our hair is in the telogen phase. The most light-sensitive phase of the hair is the anagen phase. In other phases, hair is not affected by light. Therefore, laser hair removal should be repeated at specific intervals. The number of sessions for laser hair removal varies depending on the body area, skin color, hair color, hair thickness, and hormonal factors. Typically, 3-8 sessions are needed for permanent results. Generally, for men, all areas require longer epilation sessions, and for women, the face requires longer sessions, with hairs becoming finer. Success rates are higher when the skin is lighter and hair is darker. The genital area, armpits, and legs give the best results with laser hair removal. Based on all these factors, the success rate ranges from 50% to 90%.
The intervals between sessions vary depending on the treatment area. Typically, treatments are performed every 4-8 weeks.
Pain perception during laser hair removal varies by individual. This pain is usually tolerable and described as a rubber band snap or a needle prick. After a session, redness and swelling that last a few minutes may occur; however, these side effects are temporary and do not affect the patient's daily activities. A superficial crust may sometimes form on the treated skin, but it usually heals within a few days, and the skin returns to normal. In rare cases, discoloration of the skin, such as lightening or darkening, may occur. In nearly all cases, the skin returns to normal within 6-12 months. Scar tissue, which is thickening of the skin, is a very rare side effect and may be permanent. If laser hair removal is performed under the supervision of dermatology specialists, with the correct laser type and dose, no side effects are expected.
Treatment can be performed during the summer as well. However, those undergoing treatment should carefully follow the sun protection methods recommended by the doctor. Also, it should not be applied to tanned skin, and sun exposure should be avoided after the procedure. Applying the treatment to tanned skin can lead to side effects and decrease success rates.
At least one month before laser hair removal, methods that remove hair from the root, such as waxing, tweezing, or threading, should not be used. Sunbathing and using tanning beds should also be avoided for at least one month prior. It is not recommended to apply the treatment to tanned skin. Three days before the procedure, shaving the area appropriately is sufficient. Local anesthetic creams are generally not required due to the cooling effect, but they can be applied to patients with a low pain threshold if needed.
During laser hair removal, light is applied to the skin in a beam. Each pulse of the device head scans an area according to its size.
After the laser hair removal procedure, redness and slight swelling around the hair may occur. This reaction usually disappears within a few hours but may last up to 1-2 days. Some creams and cooling procedures can be applied to alleviate this localized reaction. Patients should be informed about post-treatment care. It is recommended that the treated area be protected from sunlight for two weeks and that a high-SPF sunscreen (at least SPF 15) be used.
Laser treatment is applied for capillary expansion on the face, legs, and other body areas. The best results are observed in fine capillary cracks on the face and legs. Hemoglobin in the red blood cells within the vessel absorbs the laser light, and the heat energy released causes the vessels to disappear. Multiple sessions may be required depending on the width and fineness of the capillary. After the laser procedure, patients can return to their daily routine immediately. If treated areas are exposed to sunlight, a high-SPF sunscreen should be used.
Last Updated Date: 21 September 2023
Publication Date: 21 September 2023
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