Laser Hair Removal
Almost everyone has unwanted hair that seems displeasing. A desire to do something about it requires a review of the available options. However, the choice remains far from simple. After all, a process that affects the body’s largest organ, the skin, can produce lasting effects. It may not receive as much respect as the heart, brain, lungs, kidneys, and liver. However, it occupies more space than all the internal organs combined.
Deciding Which Way to Go
Many spas and clinics offer laser hair removal. In addition, equipment kits on the market provide access for anyone who wants to try home treatment. However, the Food and Drug Administration considers the process of cosmetic surgery. A decision to choose novelty over a safe medical process can lead to bad outcomes. The 18 offices of Derick Dermatology in Chicago’s suburbs offer easy access to safe medical procedures.
Understanding How the Process Works
An intense beam of light targets the hair pigment in laser hair removal. The heat from the energy it creates damages the hair follicles beneath the skin. While the process slows down regrowth, it may not prevent it entirely. Therefore, hair removal for the first time may require several treatments. In addition, maintenance can provide follow-up care.
Dermatologists may need only a few minutes to treat small areas, but the time required increases with the treatment of larger areas. In addition, safety measures protect patients’ eyes from exposure to the laser beam.
What to Expect After Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Reactions may include a few hours of discomfort, redness, or inflammation. While everyone wants to see results immediately, they do not occur until days or weeks later. As treatments continue and hair begins to shed, loss becomes visible. The effects of a professional hair removal process may last for months or even years in some cases. While the cosmetic market provides access to home hair removal equipment, the effect may achieve only a modest reduction.
Considering the Risks
As with any surgery, laser hair removal presents risks. Preparing for treatment before and after it occurs may help reduce some of the side effects. The risk level tends to vary with physical traits such as hair color and skin type. However, reaction to treatment can occur to anyone. When the risk of side effects becomes known, it can help with decision-making by anyone considering a procedure. Some of the known impacts include these:
Changes in Pigment
After treatment, the skin may become lighter or darker in affected areas. While the effect may last only briefly, it may remain in some cases. Typically, lighter skin changes tend to occur on suntanned areas or otherwise darker skin tones.
Minor Irritations
When performed under medical supervision, treatment may produce some minor aftereffects that can last for a few hours or less.
Severe Reactions
When laser hair removal occurs without medical care, effects may include blisters and crusts that can scar affected areas. Spas and salons allow staff without the medical skills to perform the process.
Preparing for Laser Hair Removal
Recognizing the procedure as one that requires careful thought, informed patients can avoid impactful activities. Instead, closely obeying medical guidance can produce a better outcome.
Medications
In a medical setting, potential laser hair removal patients receive advice about using blood-thinning medicines before the procedure. In addition, some patients may have questions about using drugs that reduce inflammation.
Sunshine
Guidance from a doctor about avoiding the sun’s rays before and after treatment can help patients prepare for the procedure.
Skin Color Changers
Suntan creams that darken the skin can reduce the contrast that the laser hair removal process needs for effectiveness.
Disturbances
Anything that affects the hair root (follicle) for a month before treatment can limit successful outcomes. However, shaving or trimming hair on the skin’s surface may prove helpful.
Understanding the Difference
Derick Dermatology has a long-standing record as a leader in skincare. Nearby offices in 18 suburbs offer the finest care for residents and visitors in Chicagoland. While wanting to get rid of unwanted hair occurs to almost everyone, the best results occur in medical offices. The combination of medical, surgical, and cosmetic services in one facility can make a difference in the outcome.
Cosmetic
Patients can receive care from a board-certified dermatologist experienced in cosmetic surgery at Derick Dermatology. Before treatment, a review of medical history includes any previous use of hair removal methods. In addition, medicines that a patient uses come under review. Finally, a history of skin disorders receives attention.
An explanation of risks and benefits helps potential patients decide whether to pursue treatment or not. An understanding of what benefits can occur may further the decision-making process. Laser hair removal contributes to the range of cosmetic services that include Botox, filler injections, and CoolSculpting. Laser resurfacing, tattoo removal, and other laser treatments extend the range of services patients may receive.
Medical
The skin conditions that Derick Dermatology treats can aid patients with a diagnosis and effective management. Conditions that can impact the skin and receive care with medical supervision include acne, cysts, dermatitis, eczema, lesions, moles, rosacea, psoriasis, and warts. In addition, patients can receive a consultation on these or other skin conditions.
Surgical
Access to outpatient treatment by a board-certified dermatologist prevents expensive hospital stays. In addition, most patients can return home after an in-office surgery, reducing the lost time from work or family duties. Specially trained physicians perform Mohs surgeries for skin cancer or other serious conditions. Caring and compassionate staff can arrange appointments to suit each patient’s schedule.