Laser Hair Removal Areas: Where Does It Work Best?
Laser hair removal is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the United States. Statistics show that in 2023, the market for laser hair removal touched $236.225 million, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21.97%, reaching $637.74 million by 2028.
As these numbers bear out, laser hair removal is incredibly popular all over the country. When performed by experts, the FDA-approved procedure is one of the safest methods of hair removal from different parts of the body.
While the effectiveness of laser hair removal is uncontested, does it work equally well on any body part? Read on to find out more about the various laser hair removal areas and the results you can expect to get.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
The procedure has a rather simple working principle.
Body hair in the target area is exposed to a probe emitting a monochromatic high-intensity wavelength of light. The light energy is absorbed by a pigment called melanin found in your skin and hair. It is converted to heat, which then destroys the hair follicles that are embedded in the skin.
The laser's low scattering coefficient allows it to reach the deepest hair follicles, leading to a “clean sweep” of body hair.
Because the laser precisely targets the hair follicles, their growth is inhibited or stunted in the long term. However, the laser pulses do not affect the skin itself because the wavelength of the light does not cause thermal damage to the surrounding tissues.
The hair growth cycle has three phases: the growing phase, anagen; the regressing phase, catagen; and the resting phase, telogen.
The laser targets only the hair in the anagen stage of growth, hence during each treatment session about 20% of the hair is eliminated. That’s why treatments are done consecutively, every 4-6 weeks to target the hair in the growing phase.
The procedure is safe, sanitary, and nearly painless.
Is laser hair removal permanent, though? No.
It’s one of the myths about laser hair removal that may confuse you if you’re looking to permanently eliminate hair from the target area. But don’t doubt the effectiveness of laser hair removal; just remember that it is a long-term solution, not a permanent one.
You just need follow-up sessions every few months to enjoy hairless skin.
This procedure must be avoided if you have tattoos on your target area. Laser hair removal during pregnancy is also not recommended, although there’s no definitive proof that it affects the fetus.
The Long-term Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
Compared to other body hair removal methods, such as waxing, shaving, or epilating, laser provides many more advantages and long-term benefits.
It’s Long Lasting
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, the results of laser hair removal sessions can last for several months up to a year. By conservative estimates, you can expect to go hair-free for about three to six months. Even when the hair grows back, it will not be as thick or dense as it used to be.
You cannot expect the same results from waxing or shaving. So, there is a clear winner in the laser hair removal vs waxing debate.
It’s Hassle-free
You will likely need to undergo 4 to 6 laser therapy sessions for complete hair removal. Fortunately, the procedure is quick, nearly painless, and very precise. You may experience pinprick-like sensations or minimal zaps during treatment, but it’s a mild discomfort to bear, especially given the fantastic results.
Unlike shaving or waxing, you don’t have to deal with ingrown hair, nicks, or cuts. Laser hair removal also means you have one less thing to do in your daily hygiene routine.
It’s Economical
The exact laser hair removal price varies depending on the target area, hair growth, skin tone, and other factors. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, it costs an average of about $582 per session, although the price depends on the size and number of treatment areas and it can cost anywhere from $30 to $150 and more.
Waxing, although cheaper, is done much more frequently. In contrast, laser hair removal is a more expensive treatment that will give you better results that last much longer.
Last but not least, laser hair removal leaves the skin smooth, with no ingrown hair or irritation which is a common problem with shaving and waxing.
Which Areas Can Laser Hair Removal Be Applied?
When performed by certified experts, laser hair removal is a safe and effective procedure that can be used on almost any part of the body. There are very few restrictions on laser hair removal areas.
Note that the effectiveness of laser hair removal in different parts of the body may vary.
Laser Hair Removal on Face
Target areas on the face are usually around the upper lip, cheeks, chin, or temples. Advancements in technology have made it possible for laser hair removal on face to shape beards.
Laser hair removal on face cannot be performed near or around the eyes.
It takes 8 to 10 sessions for the visible hair growth reduction. Unless you have very dense hair growth, laser hair removal on face results may last about a year.
Laser hair removal on arms is usually done on the underarms, but it works just as well on forearms. Armpit hair is coarser and denser than other target areas, so getting the best results may take 8-10 sessions.
Laser Hair Removal on Arms
Laser Hair Removal on Legs
Laser hair removal on legs is relatively painless compared to other parts of the body. It can be done on your thighs, lower legs, and inner thighs for 8-10 sessions.
It is quite safe and very common to get laser hair removal on bikini area. The procedure can remove as much or as little of your pubic hair as you desire, such is the effectiveness of laser hair removal on bikini area. It can cause some discomfort because the skin in the target area is very thin and sensitive.
The number of treatments needed for the optimal results are highly individual and depend on age, gender, race, ethnicity, genetics, medical conditions, area of the body etc. The bikini, under arm / ancillary areas and beards (males) require more treatments because the hair growth is stimulated by hormones / androgens. Usually, there is a visible hair reduction after 10-12 treatments. Treatments are performed every 4 weeks, on a regular basis without interruption for the maximum effectiveness.
Laser Hair Removal on Bikini Area
Maximizing Laser Hair Removal Areas’ Results With Proper Care
Now that you know all about laser hair removal areas and the effectiveness of the treatment, let’s focus on aftercare. Everyone reacts differently to laser hair removal, but some best practices will apply to all those who undergo the procedure.
After each laser removal session, wear breathable, loose-fit clothing to minimize the risk of skin irritation. Direct sun exposure on the target area is also a no-go. Keep laser hair removal areas moisturized and track future hair growth to discuss with your medical professional in future sessions.
To learn more about laser hair removal in North Hollywood, contact LA Beauty Skin Center.