Laser Hair Removal and Sensitive Skin

When it comes to sensitive skin, laser hair removal can offer a welcome alternative to the daily pain of shaving and waxing for many people. The procedure can be used on a variety of areas, including the face, back, arms and legs. Laser hair removal can even be used on pubic hair and other sensitive areas, making this one of the better choices in hair removal for those with sensitive skin. We've got the tips to ensure your laser hair removal sessions are a success, no matter how delicate your complexion might be.

Preparing for Your Consultation
If you have sensitive skin, there are a few questions to ask at your laser hair removal consultation, including:

• What type of laser will be used in the procedure?
• Can numbing cream be applied prior to treatment?
• Will you test the area before beginning the procedure?
• Will a cooling tip be used during the hair removal process?
• Can other skin therapies be used in combination with the hair removal?

The answers to these questions will provide you with the information you need to determine if this is the right clinic for your laser hair removal treatment and offer you the information you need to prepare properly for your procedure.

Type of Laser
Different lasers are used for hair removal, depending on the hair color and the color of the skin. Since darker skin tends to be more sensitive to hair removal procedures, it is important to ensure the right laser is used. Darker skin usually responds best to the Alexander or the pulsed diode laser, which may make these lasers better for fair skin that is more sensitive as well. Another option for sensitive skin is the YAG laser, which is a good choice for all skin types and causes the least amount of epidural damage.

Numbing Cream
There is some discomfort involved with the laser hair removal process, although the level of discomfort varies greatly from individual to individual. For some, the procedure feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Others equate the pain level to that of waxing, although the sensation is quite different. If you are concerned about the level of discomfort due to your sensitive skin, you doctor can apply a numbing cream prior to the procedure. While this topical anesthesia only works on the surface of the skin, it is often effective in keeping a patient more comfortable during the procedure.

Testing First
If you are concerned about a potential reaction from the laser due to sensitive skin, you can request that your doctor does a test spot of the area first to ensure there is no adverse reaction. It also gives you the opportunity to determine how uncomfortable the procedure will be, so you doctor can take the appropriate steps to make the treatment as comfortable as possible.

Cooling Tip
Because the laser uses heat to damage the hair follicle, the temperature can contribute to the discomfort of the procedure. To keep the patient more comfortable during treatment, and prevent potential skin damage from occurring, the doctor can use a cooling tip on the laser device. The chilled tip is particularly helpful for Caucasian skin that is exceptionally sensitive.

Additional Treatments
Sometimes, sensitive skin is the result of a problem like ingrown hairs or folliculitis. If this is the case, your doctor may recommend additional skin treatments to be done before or after the laser hair removal to make the treatment more comfortable and successful. Be sure to let your doctor know at the consultation if there are any skin issues he should be concerned about.

Laser hair removal is often a good choice for sensitive skin, and may be preferable to potentially irritating treatments like shaving or waxing. People with sensitive skin should have their procedure done by a technician who is very experienced in laser hair removal procedures. If you are worried about what the laser might do to your skin, let your specialist know about your concerns prior to the laser hair removal procedure. With advance preparation, he or she can ensure your treatment is as safe and comfortable as possible, no matter how sensitive your skin might be.

To learn more about your candidacy for laser hair removal, contact us today and schedule your free consultation with a top laser hair removal specialist in your area!

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