Laser Hair Removal: Risks and Benefits
by Abigail Aaronson

Excessive hair growth in certain areas can be a problem to remove. There are an array of methods that have been used for this purpose, including tweezing, waxing, bleaching, shaving and electrolysis. One of the most popular ways to eliminate this excess growth is with laser hair removal. As with any medical procedure, there are risks and benefits.

In the initial consultation with the dermatologist or physician, the patient will be asked about their history to sun exposure as well as the prescription medications they take. Their skin and hair color will be examined as well. All of these items can have an effect on the success of the procedure.

Benefits may include: - Long lasting results: One of the positive aspects of this method is how long it lasts. Many of the other treatments are extremely temporary. The laser method may keep the region hair free for several months or even up to several years.

- Up to 80% of the area will remain free and clear of the unwanted growth after only six to eight treatments. It is often recommended to space the treatments six to eight weeks apart for optimum results and to allow healing in between time.

- Some of the newer lasers offer more comfort as well as faster results. Wider beams are also available which allow larger regions of the body to be addressed at one time.

- Different lasers are available for different skin tones and types. The doctor's office will be able to recommend the one that is most effective for each patient's individual needs.

Risks may include: - Blistering and scarring may occur. Skin texture changes may alter the surface of the region. Scabs and a crusty appearance may also result initially.

- The hair may grow back in a finer and lighter color than the surrounding area.

- A darkened or lightened patch of skin may result after treatment. Darkened is referred to as Hyperpigmentation; lightened is referred to as Hypopigmentation.

A laser removal treatment may take from fifteen minutes to four hours, depending on the denseness of growth and the region which is being addressed. It is an outpatient procedure which means that the patient will go home on the same day.

Anesthesia is not usually required but a numbing cream and sedation may be an option for in order to provide comfort. It is often necessary to come back periodically for maintenance and upkeep of the area in order to keep it hair free.

About the Author
With laser hair removal, San Antonio based expert helps you get rid of unwanted hair from your body to give you refreshed and rejuvenated skin. To know more about the procedure, visit http://stadiamedspa.com