Since it was first introduced in 1998, laser hair removal has grown in popularity as an effective and pain-free way to get rid of unwanted hair. In fact, it has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures done today.
Even though the technology behind laser hair removal Sydney clinics offer has improved significantly in the past decade, not everyone is considered a good candidate for this procedure. Keep reading to learn who is, and who isn’t, a good candidate for this procedure.
The Perfect Candidate for Laser Hair Removal
There are several factors that go into determining whether or not someone is a candidate for this procedure. To understand these factors, you need to know how the lasers work as they target the hair being removed.
Modern lasers emit a pulsing light. It’s extremely intense and targets the hair’s melanin. This is the substance that gives hair its color. When the melanin is targeted, the laser can effectively break down the hair’s follicle, which is located under the skin. This is all achieved without causing any damage to the skin itself.
With that particular factor in mind, the specific type of skin and hair you have impact how effective laser hair removal is (or isn’t, in some cases).
Skin and Hair Type Considerations
The best type of hair for laser hair removal is coarse and dark. While this is true, thanks to technology advances, laser hair removal may work on certain types of lighter hairs.
The ideal candidate for this procedure is individuals who have dark hair and light/pale skin. The contrast present between the dark hair and the lighter skin make it easy for the laser to find and target the melanin. Fine, blonde hairs are unable to be targeted by the lasers that are used, which means they can’t be removed using this method.
For individuals with lighter colored hair, waxing is a much better and more effective option. Also, those who tan easily and who have naturally darker skin tones may have less success with the laser hair removal procedure.
When considering laser hair removal, the Fitzpatrick table is used to determine if a certain type of hair can be successfully removed.
The Targeted Treatment Area
When trying to decide whether or not laser hair removal is a good option, it’s important to consider the area being treated. Laser hair removal is ideal for larger portions of the skin, such as the back, arms, legs, and underarms.
This doesn’t rule out the treatment of facial hair, including the chin or upper lip. It’s also possible to treat the bikini area. Each of these areas responds well to this treatment.
It’s important only to use laser hair removal for treating hair that needs to be removed permanently, rather than the occasional hair issue.
Who Doesn’t Make a Good Candidate for This Treatment?
While a wide array of people respond well to laser hair treatment, this isn’t true for everyone. As mentioned before, laser hair removal isn’t good for fine or light hair. Also, areas of the skin near the eyes should not be treated, nor between the eyebrows. Even when protection is used, there’s a risk of the laser causing serious and permanent damage to the eyes.
Women who are nursing or pregnant don’t need to undergo laser hair removal either, as it has the potential to cause harm to the unborn child. While there’s no proof of this, it is best to err on the side of caution.
Is Laser Hair Removal Right for You?
If you are thinking about laser hair removal, carefully consider all the information here. This can help you determine if this treatment is right for you.