Everybody has two types of views regarding body hair: some like to embrace it while others want to remove it. As both are equally justified, it all comes down to personal preferences.
Generally, women prefer either waxing or shaving it off. But waxing is painful, and shaving lasts only for a couple of days. They resort to laser hair removal technology if they want long-term results. But is it safe? Are there any side effects? How much does it cost? All such questions will be answered in the following article.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a famous procedure in the cosmetology field. It was commercially available in 1996 after R. Rox Anderson and Melanie Grossman discovered its possibility.
It is based on the principle of photothermolysis. It uses a concentrated beam of light and pulse duration to target the tissue with minimum effect on its surroundings.
During this procedure, the light emitted is absorbed by the melanin in the hair. Furthermore, the light gets converted to heat and damages the tube-shaped sacs in the skin, also known as hair follicles. As these are responsible for hair growth, your hair growth gets delayed.
There are two types of melanin in the hair: Eumelanin and Pheomelanin. The former one is responsible for giving brown or black color to your hair. The latter one gives a blonde color to your hair.
Even though laser works best on dark hair on light skin, the Nd:YAG laser can remove dark hair from dark skin as well.
How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?
When you resort to methods like waxing, shaving, or tweezing, you will see hair growth in a few days. For example, once you shave, your hair will grow back in four to five days. Waxing lasts for twenty days, on average.
But with laser hair removal, you will get smooth and hairless skin for months. But this is not permanent.
You will require multiple sittings and timely maintenance. Generally, it required up to six treatments. Some can last up to four weeks, and others can last for years. It depends on the area of the body as well as the number of treatments completed.
Once you are done with all the sittings, you will see no hair growth for at least a year. After that, the hair will be fine and thin.
Laser Hair Removal Cost In India
The cost of laser hair removal treatments varies according to places, clinics, and hair growth.
If we go geographically, it might cost more in metropolitan cities.
For example, it will cost about Rs. 25000 for a total of five sittings. It can vary according to the size of the area being treated, like face, legs, arms, bikini area, etc.
When it comes to Delhi, it might cost Rs 50000.
It might only cost Rs. 20000 in Chennai.
The following table can give you a better idea about the Laser Hair Removal Cost In India.
| Body Area | Estimate Cost in Indian Rupees |
| Chin | ₹2000-4000 |
| Upper Lips | ₹1500-3000 |
| Full Arms | ₹7500-13000 |
| Full Legs | ₹11000-15000 |
| Under Arms | ₹000-5000 |
| Bikini Area (Regular) | ₹3000-6000 |
| Brazilian Bikini | ₹4000-7000 |
| Back | ₹8000-11000 |
| Abdomen | ₹5000-8000 |
| Buttocks | ₹6000-9000 |
| Full Body | ₹25000-50000 |
The cost mentioned in the table mentioned above is for one session. It can vary according to the clinic and city.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
If you are tired of regularly going to the salon to remove unwanted body hair, you will highly benefit from laser hair. It comes with the following advantages:
No Ingrown Hair
Not only does the laser hair removal treatment remove hair from all the nooks of your body, but it also prevents any ingrown hair.
As this treatment removes the hair from the roots, you will not notice any ingrown hair, leaving you with smooth skin.
No Scars
It is a common misconception that laser hair removal treatment leaves behind. But once all the sessions are completed, you will go home with smooth and spotless skin.
Softer Skin
With laser hair treatment, no ingrown hair or stray hair will be left behind. Your skin will be completely hairless, making it even smoother. Even when the hair grows back, it will be thin and softer than before.
More Efficiency
When you opt for waxing, you have to deal with hot wax almost burning your skin. Even with shaving, you have to risk not cutting your skin. Moreover, after such efforts and risks, you do not get satisfying results.
But with the laser hair removal treatment, you can remove unwanted hair from any part of your body without any hassle. It does not cause any pain and brings the best results.
Long Lasting Results
Till the sessions are completed, you might experience some hair growth. But you can easily shave it off. Once you are done with all the sittings, you will remain hair-free for months and even years.
Side effects of Laser Hair Removal Treatment
Every good thing comes with a hint of drawbacks. The following are some of the potential side effects of laser hair removal treatment:
Skin Irritation
As the laser damages the hair follicles, you might experience redness and irritation for a few hours after the treatment.
You can use ice to relieve some pain. Normally, this goes away after a day or two.
Crusting
Your skin might appear rough right after the treatment. After consulting with your dermatologist, you can use moisturizer to soothe it. Your skin will go back to normal in a couple of days.
Skin Infection
If you notice a wound around the skin after the laser hair removal procedure, consult your doctor as it might be a skin infection. But this can be treated with medicines.
Changes in the Color
People worry about their skin getting either lighter or darker after the laser hair removal procedure. But this is short-lived, and you will get your original skin color back after a few days.
How to Prepare for a Laser Hair Removal Session?
You need to prepare yourself before your first laser hair removal session. The following guide will prove to be of beneficial assistance:
- Do not wax or pluck before your first laser hair removal session. Let your hair grow for a month for the best results. Shaving is recommended.
- Stay away from the sun. If you have to step out, use sunscreen. But it is advisable to avoid staying out in the sun for a long time.
- Do not use heavy skincare products to prevent any skin irritation.
- Avoid medications like blood thinners or pain killers. Consult your doctor for a better idea.
- Avoid tanning products prior to your first laser hair removal treatment.
Takeaway
Laser hair removal treatment might be heavy on the pocket. But with its long-term results, you can save yourself from endless trips to the salon. Consider all the factors involved as well as the side effects. Choose a reliable clinic and get your desired smooth skin.
