Laser therapy has become a preferred procedure for removal as the technology has advanced. The number of overall cosmetic procedures performed annually is staggering, reaching ten million in 2009 alone. Since the tracking began in the late 1990s, the growth pattern has risen well over the 100% mark.
From a historical perspective, the inclination toward reducing unwanted hair has been a part of the human experience for hundreds of years. In Middle Eastern cultures the practice of threading was employed to pull follicles by the root with string. Hair removal products have been advertised throughout the twentieth century. Mostly sprays, creams or wax products, they produce instant results, but are no more effective than shaving for the long term. Electrolysis does provide excellent long term results, but can be painful and unsafe if not performed by a professional. Home electrolysis products are available but not recommended as safe for the untrained.
The onset of laser hair removal is directly related to the advancement of laser technology. The advantage of this treatment over electrolysis is the fast rate at which it can be completed on all areas and the relevant lack of discomfort. Also the procedure employs a light beam as opposed to an electrical current. Designed to be used on men and women alike, the process requires multiple treatments in accordance with the phases of hair growth.
Follicles grow in a cycle. At any given time, follicles are either in the growth cycle or are dormant. Dormant follicles are not affected by the laser treatment. Additional treatments will destroy the previously dormant cycles when they enter the growth cycle. The norm seems to be 6 sessions on a monthly or bi-monthly basis depending on the type of product used and the preference of the Doctor.
To ensure the greatest comfort during the procedure, the laser is fitted with a device that will cool the skin at all phases of the process. The speed at which the technology can be employed is one of its greatest attributes. This can be a minute or to up to an hour. The time involved is directly related to the amount of area being treated. Once all of the growth phases have been treated, it is very likely that the removal process will be long lasting.
Long term success rates are higher though for darker rather than lighter hair such as blonde or red. This is primarily due to the fact that the higher the melanin, the more of the follicle is destroyed. Post procedures involve scrubbing the treated areas, as it takes approximately a few weeks for the hair to shed and the use of sunblock on any of the exposed treatment areas.
The realities of laser hair therapy point to the process being highly credible in achieving what it claims to do. No procedure of this or any other nature should proceed without full disclosure between client and practitioner of the process and risks, if any.
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