For many people, especially women, unwanted facial hair is a source of frustration and causes a great deal of self-consciousness. Laser hair removal offers a long-term solution by targeting deep into individual hair follicles reducing their ability to regrow.
Here we look at the most frequently asked questions concerning facial laser hair removal.
What is facial laser hair removal?
It is a cosmetic procedure that utilises a beam of concentrated light energy to target and destroy hair follicles at their root. The light emitted is a specific wavelength that is more easily absorbed by the pigment in the follicles. Simply put, it heats these and compromises future hair growth.
How does it work?
A handheld laser is used to treat the desired areas of the face. The beautician will selectively target each hair follicle in turn so it can be quite a slow process. Over multiple sessions, the treated hair follicles should become inactive, resulting in reduced hair growth and even permanent hair removal.
Does facial laser hair removal hurt?
Most people describe a mild discomfort or a sensation like a rubber band snapping against the skin. However, pain tolerance and overall experience can vary among individuals and specialist numbing creams can be used during the procedure.
How long does the skin take to heal after treatment?
The healing time after facial laser hair removal is generally minimal. Some people see no change in the skin at all. You may, however, experience a little redness or a slight sunburn sensation immediately after the session. These effects typically die down within a few hours.
Which areas of the face can be treated with laser hair removal?
You can target various areas with laser hair removal, including the upper lip, chin, cheeks, sideburns, jawline, and neck. Larger areas where hair removal is needed can take much longer to treat using this method.
Is laser hair removal suitable for all types of hair?
Laser hair removal works best on dark, thicker hair. This is because it targets the pigment in the hair follicles better and absorbs the light compared to fair hair which can reflect it. Recent advances in technology, however, have made it possible to treat a wider range of hair colours and types, including blondes and light browns, more effectively.
Is facial laser hair removal suitable for transgender women?
Yes. This is a common option for transgender women who wish to feminise their appearance by reducing facial hair growth. It can help in achieving smoother skin and is usually employed in conjunction with hormone therapy.
How many sessions of facial laser hair removal are typically required?
The number of sessions required varies depending on factors such as hair thickness, colour, and growth cycle. Multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are usually necessary to seriously reduce growth.
Can facial laser hair removal cause skin damage?
When performed by a skilled professional, facial laser hair removal is safe and minimally invasive. There is some small risk of temporary skin discolouration, blistering, or scarring. In most cases, any damage resolves within a few days.
Is facial laser hair removal a permanent solution?
In many cases, laser treatment can lead to long-term hair reduction and even permanent hair removal. However, results can vary depending on the individual. Some hair regrowth may happen over time and extra sessions may be needed to control it.
It’s important to consult with a qualified professional when considering laser hair removal for areas like the face. They will be able to determine if this is the right way forward for you and make sure you have realistic expectations of the results.