Procedure steps
Laser hair removal technique typically involves the following steps:
Preparation
The first step in preparing for laser hair removal treatment is to choose a board-certified specialist, such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. They will take your detailed clinical and drug intake history to rule out infections. Reviewing your clinical and hormonal evaluation, your surgeon can tailor a treatment plan for you specific to your goals and discuss risks, benefits, and expectations from the procedure to determine the correct procedure for you.
Hair epilation should be avoided at least six weeks before the procedure to get maximum hair growth. Waxing or plucking hair before the procedure doesn't produce satisfactory results because the target gets absent. Moreover, sunscreens may be prescribed 4 to 6 weeks before the procedure, especially on exposed areas.
In preparation for your laser hair removal, shave the area at least 24 hours before the procedure to allow a slight stubble to grow; this will provide enough target for the laser without absorbing too much energy in the hair shaft itself.
Just before the procedure, you may be given local anesthesia to avoid discomfort.
Laser application
During the procedure, the area to be treated is cleaned to remove oils from the skin, and the patient is positioned comfortably. It's essential to use eye protection for both the patient and the operator, and keeping reflective/metallic surfaces near the laser must be avoided.
After individualizing the parameters to each patient's skin and hair type, the handpiece is kept perpendicular to the skin. It is pressed down gently but firmly to bring the follicles close to the surface and temporarily reduce the blood supply to the treated area.
Post-operative care
Some redness and swelling are expected after the laser treatment. Although most machines have inbuilt cooling systems, ice packs or cooling agents may be used after the treatment to minimize pain and swelling. In case of accidental epidermal injury, topical antibiotics may be used. Moreover, it is recommended to practice strict sun protection, and sunscreens must be used. Your doctor may prescribe topical steroid creams to minimize erythema and swelling.