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Facial hair laser removal is a cosmetic procedure that makes use of lasers to target hair follicles on the face, thus slowing and reducing their growth and providing long-term hair reduction. This procedure is popular among those wishing to remove unwanted hair on the face, which may include the upper lip, chin, and cheeks. The laser targets the pigments (melanin) in the hair follicle, which absorbs the light energy and converts it into heat, ultimately damaging or destroying the hair follicle.
Procedure type
Non-invasive cosmetic procedure
Alternate names
Laser hair reduction
Speciality
Dermatology
Associated anatomy
The face
What is the Need for Facial Hair Laser Removal?
- Facial hair laser removal is often sought by individuals who want to remove unwanted hair on their face. This can be due to personal preference or cultural or societal norms.
- Some individuals may also seek facial hair laser removal as a treatment for conditions such as hirsutism, which is characterised by excessive hair growth on the face and body.
Benefits of Facial Hair Laser Removal
Facial hair laser removal offers several benefits, including:
- Long-term hair reduction
- Improved skin texture
- Reduced risk of ingrown hairs
- Minimal downtime
The procedure is also relatively quick, with most sessions lasting between 15 and 30 minutes.
Preparation for Facial Hair Laser Treatment
To prepare for facial hair laser removal, the following may be needed:
- Before undergoing facial hair laser removal, avoid sun exposure or tanning for two weeks prior to the procedure.
- It is important to avoid hair removal methods like plucking, waxing, and hair removal creams in the treatment area for at least four weeks before the procedure.
- Shaving is encouraged so the follicles can be targeted instead of the hair.
- Protective eyeglasses and anaesthesia may be administered.
How is Facial Hair Laser Removal Procedure Performed?
The procedure is as follows:
- During the procedure, the patient will be given protective eyewear, and a topical anaesthetic can be applied to reduce discomfort.
- A handheld laser device delivers short bursts of energy on the hair follicles in the treatment area.
- The duration of the procedure depends on the size of the area being treated.
Risks Factors Associated with Facial Hair Laser Removal
Facial hair laser removal is a safe procedure, but there are some risks involved, including:
- Redness- Redness (erythema) is an expected but temporary side effect post-procedure.
- Swelling
- Discomfort in the treatment area
- In rare cases, scarring, blistering, or changes in skin pigmentation may occur.
Recovery after Facial Hair Laser Treatment
- Patients could experience some redness, swelling, or discomfort in the treatment area, which should subside within a few hours to a few days. Using ice packs and moisturisers can be helpful.
- Avoiding sun exposure is necessary, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from damage can help improve the outcome of the peel.
- The hair that has been lasered will not be shed at once; it will gradually fall over weeks.
- Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results. Spacing them several weeks apart allows the hair to regrow before the next treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laser a good option for facial hair removal?
Yes, lasers are a popular and effective method for facial hair removal. It targets the hair follicles and can provide long-term hair reduction.
How long does facial hair laser removal last?
Facial hair laser removal provides long-term hair reduction, but it may not be permanent. Multiple sessions are needed for good results, and maintenance treatment may be needed to maintain hair reduction.
How much does laser facial hair removal cost?
The cost of laser facial hair removal varies depending on factors, like the area to be treated, the doctor's expertise, the number of sessions required, and the location of the clinic.
Is laser hair removal really permanent?
Laser hair removal can provide long-term hair reduction, but it may not be permanent. The results can vary from person to person and can be influenced by several factors, including hair colour, skin colour, and hormonal changes.
How painful is laser hair removal?
The level of discomfort experienced during laser hair removal depends on the person and the treatment area. Some describe the sensation as a mild sting, while others may experience more significant discomforpt. A topical anaesthetic could be used to reduce discomfort.
Do I have to shave my face before laser hair removal?
Yes, it is recommended to shave the treatment area before laser hair removal. This allows the laser to target the hair follicles more effectively.
Which is better: laser or electrolysis?
Both laser and electrolysis can provide effective hair reduction, but they work in different ways. Laser works by targeting melanin in the hair follicle and can treat larger areas of skin more quickly, while electrolysis targets individual hair follicles and can be more time-consuming. The choice between the two methods depends on the individual's hair, skin type, the treatment area and personal preferences.
Review
Reviewed By Dr. Rahul Arora, Consultant, Dermatology on 3 June 2024.