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Skin Deep by Sharon
Keating, BSN, NCMES
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Laser Hair Removal Part
II
I often hear, “I would love
to get rid of this hair permanently, but. . .”
How long does it
really take until the hair does not grow back? At least six
treatments are necessary to completely eradicate hair, but usually after
the 3rd treatment, the growth has been reduced to a level of
being “presentable and easy to deal with” for most people.
In order for the treatments
to be effective, there is a waiting period of at least six weeks between
treatments. Some people find this the most challenging part of the entire
process. It is best to view the entire process as a short term
commitment to reap long term gain. For a woman with facial hair, or a man
with hair on his back that he does not like, three months of dealing with
the unwanted hair temporarily is truly a very short time.
Do you really mean
that I cannot wax or pluck? Women find it very distressing to
think that they cannot pluck or wax facial hair for a couple of months.
And I do understand the concern. However, shaving is an acceptable
form of hair removal in between laser treatments After three treatments
the hair growth will be greatly reduced and confidence is usually restored
at that point.
My hair is starting to
turn gray. Will the treatments be effective? In order for the
treatments to be effective on white, gray or blonde hair, something must
be done to restore pigment to the hair follicle. A solution called
Meladine is sprayed on the area where the hair is light in color. It is
absorbed by the hair follicle and darkens it below the skin line. The
light and energy from the laser can then be absorbed by the hair and
destroyed. The instructions must be followed carefully in order to
achieve good success. And this product does work best when a percentage
of the hair is still naturally dark. I do have many women who have used
the Meladine solution with success and are very happy with the results.
Tell me again why I
should not tan while I am getting laser hair removal? The sun
will usually cause fair skinned people to burn. But, the light and energy
from a laser is attracted to dark colors. It actually seeks out pigment;
the darker the pigment, the greater the danger of burning. Therefore, to
ensure safety, the skin should not have any tan what so ever while having
these treatments. Then the hair is the target and the skin is preserved.
Is laser hair removal
painful? It feels like the snap of a small rubber band. Keep in
mind that some areas are more sensitive than others. There are topical
anesthetics available which are very effective. Most centers will be able
to offer a topical anesthetic.
The benefit of laser hair
removal is a lifetime of freedom from unwanted hair. Focus on the goal
and stay on course and in a few months you can be Free! Free to think
about a fun new style - go for it!
Bio – Sharon Keating
is a Registered Nurse and nationally certified MediEsthestic Specialist
with 30 years experience. She is the owner of Serenity Medical Health and
Beauty Spa in Dawsonville, Ga. 706-265-6467 or
sales Serenity-Spa.biz
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