Laser hair removal is the most popular treatment for permanent hair removal. Although it is becoming increasingly common, it can be difficult to understand all aspects of the treatment. In this guide to permanent laser hair removal, we will explain everything about this treatment, from the benefits to the risks and costs.
What is permanent laser hair removal?
Permanent laser hair removal is a popular and effective method of getting rid of unwanted hair, using Diode, Alexandrite or Nd:YAG lasers. Laser hair removal uses a beam of light to destroy the hair follicle. This beam of light is absorbed by the melanin (the pigment that gives hair its color). Once absorbed by the melanin, it turns into heat, destroying the follicle permanently.
How is hair permanently destroyed?
The light beam emitted by the laser is absorbed by the hair's melanin, the pigment that gives the hair its color. The light is then transformed into heat, which is transmitted to the hair follicle. This heat damages the cells of the follicle, preventing future hair growth. The laser is set to selectively target the hair follicles while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. The process is repeated for each hair in the treated area, with sessions spaced several weeks apart to allow dormant hairs to grow back and be treated as well. Finally, after several sessions, most of the hair is permanently removed.
Number of sessions needed?
First of all, it is important to understand that for this to be effective, the hair must be in the anagen phase (visit Dermagyms page on pilosity). The anagen phase is the active growth phase of the hair. During this phase, the hair follicle is filled with cells rich in melanin, the pigment that absorbs the light energy of the laser, and destroys the cells responsible for hair growth.
When the hair is in the catagen or telogen phase, it is not connected to the hair papilla, where the cells responsible for growth are located, and therefore cannot be permanently destroyed by the laser.
This is why it is important to wait until the hair enters the anagen phase before proceeding with permanent laser hair removal. The hair growth cycle is different for each area of the body and each individual, so it is important to follow a specific protocol for each person to obtain the best possible results.
Since the hair is never all at the same time in its anagen phase and the laser does not destroy all the cells of the follicle at once, several sessions are required. On average, 6 to 8 sessions are required for maximum results
The advantages of permanent laser hair removal
There are many advantages to permanent laser hair removal. First of all, it is very effective. Most patients see a significant reduction in hair growth after only a few treatment sessions. Second, it is faster than other hair removal methods, such as shaving or waxing. Finally, it is almost painless and requires no recovery time, making it an ideal choice for people with active lifestyles.
Laser hair removal is also the only safe and effective method for people with ingrown hairs (visit the Dermagyms page on ingrown hairs). Ingrown hairs occur when hairs cannot break through the surface of the skin and grow under the skin, causing inflammation, redness, bumps and sometimes even infection. Since the laser eventually destroys the hair follicle, it eliminates the main cause of ingrown hairs.
In conclusion, laser hair removal is a safe, fast and effective method of hair removal. You will no longer need to wax, shave or go to your beautician every month. It will also be the only long term treatment method for ingrown hair problems, no more irritation, inflammation or infection! You will save time and money for a smooth skin without ingrown hairs problems.
The risks of permanent laser hair removal
Even though permanent laser hair removal is considered a safe and effective method, there are risks associated with the treatment. The most common side effects are redness, swelling and skin sensitivity. These effects are usually temporary and disappear within hours or days of treatment. It is very important to follow the specialist's instructions and apply a specific post-treatment gel that you will find in the clinic.
In rare cases, burns, scarring or pigmentation changes may occur. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional to perform the treatment to minimize these risks.
At Dermagyms, we are medically supervised and our specialists are trained in aesthetic medicine, have been practicing for over 7 years, and follow strict protocols from our medical director.
Am I a candidate for permanent laser hair removal?
The best candidates for permanent laser hair removal are people with dark hair and fair skin. Darker hair contains more melanin, which makes it easier for the laser beam to target. People with lighter skin are also good candidates, as the laser beam is less likely to cause damage to the skin.
However, people with blond, red or gray hair may not be good candidates for permanent laser hair removal because their hair contains less melanin, making it more difficult to target. People with darker skin may also not be good candidates, as the laser beam can also target melanin in the skin, causing burns or dark spots.
Before undergoing permanent laser hair removal, it is important to consult a professional to determine if you are a good candidate for this hair removal method. Medical professionals can also give you advice on how to prepare your skin for the procedure and minimize the risk of complications.
In summary, if you have dark hair and light skin, you are probably a good candidate for permanent laser hair removal. This method will also be effective for people with phototype 4 (Mediterranean skin). For phototypes 5 and 6, you will have to consult a specialist who uses the ND:YAG laser specially designed for darker skin types. However, it is always important to consult a health professional to determine if this hair removal method is suitable for your individual situation.
How to prepare for permanent laser hair removal?
There are contraindications and specific preparation before undergoing permanent laser hair removal. First of all, it is important to avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least three weeks before the treatment. This is because the laser light beam is absorbed by melanin, which means that darker hair will absorb the energy. If the skin is tanned, there is a risk that the laser light beam will also be absorbed by the overproducing melanin in the skin, which can lead to burns or scarring. In addition, it is important to shave the hair to be treated before the treatment, as long hair can absorb the laser light on the surface and cause burns.
It is very important to know that pregnant or breast-feeding women should postpone treatments. Certain illnesses or medications are not compatible with permanent hair removal treatment (visit the Dermagyms page on laser treatment and contraindications).
It is therefore very important at the consultation and before each session to correctly answer the questions asked by the specialist in order to minimize the risks. If there is any doubt, the session will be postponed.
Costs of permanent laser hair removal
If you are considering permanent laser hair removal, one of your main concerns will probably be the cost of permanent laser hair removal in Montreal.
The cost of permanent laser hair removal in Montreal varies according to several factors, including the size of the area to be treated, the number of sessions required, and the type of equipment and reputation of the aesthetic center. In general, the larger the area to be treated, the higher the cost of permanent laser hair removal.
In Montreal, the average cost of a permanent laser hair removal session varies from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the size of the area to be treated. The most common areas are the legs, back, underarms and bikini area, which are the largest and most difficult to remove. The cost of a permanent laser hair removal session for these areas can range from $50 to $500.
However, it is important to note that many people require multiple sessions to achieve satisfactory results, which can significantly increase the total cost of permanent laser hair removal. On average, it is recommended to plan between 6 and 8 sessions, spaced a few weeks apart, to obtain optimal results. It is therefore important to take all these factors into account before deciding to opt for permanent laser hair removal in Montreal. It is also important to do thorough research to find a reliable aesthetic center, experienced with recent technologies and approved by Health Canada, preferably under medical supervision, that offers competitive rates and satisfactory results. In conclusion, the cost of permanent laser hair removal in Montreal varies according to several factors, including the area to be treated, the number of sessions required, the technologies used, the reputation of the clinic or center, and whether or not it has a medical director. It is important to take these factors into account before deciding to undergo this method of hair removal and to choose a reliable and experienced aesthetic center to obtain the best possible results.
In conclusion, permanent laser hair removal is a very effective and convenient method of permanent hair removal, but it does carry some risks that are important to understand before making a decision. With the proper preparation tips and a qualified professional, this method can be an excellent choice for getting rid of unwanted hair or ingrown hairs permanently. If you are interested in permanent laser hair removal, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with a professional to discuss your options and precautions for the best possible results. Each person is unique and will have a personalized treatment plan.