That is as a result of “lasers have completely different wavelengths which can be used to assault chromophores, [the part of a molecule responsible for its color]beneath the floor of the pores and skin,” says board-certified dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, MD. Finer, lighter-colored hair is simply more durable for the laser to focus on.
That mentioned, some laser hair elimination units and sure wavelengths can work on darker pores and skin “if the precise settings are used,” says Dr. Bhanusali. The flawed settings may end up in pores and skin discoloration and even burns, so if in case you have darkish pores and skin, it is particularly essential to get laser hair elimination from a board-certified dermatologist, by no means at a medi-spa (extra on that later). “Totally different wavelengths can be used for lighter hair, however the outcomes usually are not at all times pretty much as good.”
Over time, laser remedies destroy hair follicles on the root, so hair would not develop as a lot or as quick as earlier than. The therapy can be utilized on most areas of the physique, together with delicate areas comparable to your face and bikini line, and works nicely on massive areas of pores and skin comparable to your legs and again.
The therapy itself shouldn’t be very painful, however your physician might apply a cooling or numbing cream earlier than beginning. Dr. Farhang says newer units are even much less uncomfortable and do not require a neighborhood anesthetic beforehand. For instance, the DiolazeXL laser gadget she makes use of in her practices comes with a cooling system that counteracts the ache or burning sensation typical of laser remedies. Total, although, the dealing with seems like the clicking of a rubber band. “It may be extra intense if there’s thicker, darker hair,” she says, “just like the bikini line.”
Periods can final from a couple of minutes to greater than an hour, relying on the scale of the realm to be handled. So an armpit would not final so long as a full leg. And since your armpit hair might be darker and thicker than your leg hair, you will not want as many periods.
Outcomes you’ll be able to anticipate from laser hair elimination
It’s best to see a direct lower in hair after your first session, however you’ll probably want just a few laser hair elimination periods, unfold over a number of months, to see full outcomes. “New laser units require fewer periods, about 6 to eight, in comparison with greater than 10 for different units,” says Dr. Farhang.