Everything You Need to Know About Permanent Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is the most popular treatment for permanent hair removal. Although it is becoming increasingly common, it can be difficult to understand all aspects of the treatment. In this guide to permanent laser hair removal, we will explain everything about this treatment, from its benefits to its risks, as well as the costs involved.

What is Permanent Laser Hair Removal?

Permanent laser hair removal is a popular and effective method for getting rid of unwanted hair, using Diode, Alexandrite, or Nd:Yag lasers. This technique uses a beam of light to destroy the hair follicle. This light beam is absorbed by the melanin (the pigment that gives color) in the hair. Once absorbed by the melanin, it transforms into heat, thereby permanently destroying the follicle.

How is Hair Permanently Destroyed?

The light beam emitted by the laser is absorbed by the melanin in the hair, the pigment that gives color to the hair. The light is then converted into heat, which is transmitted to the hair follicle. This heat damages the cells in the follicle, preventing future hair regrowth. The laser is set to selectively target hair follicles while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. The process is repeated for each hair in the treated area, with sessions spaced several weeks apart to allow dormant hairs to grow back and also be treated. Ultimately, after several sessions, most hairs are eliminated permanently.

Number of Sessions Required?

It is important to understand that for laser hair removal to be effective, the hair must be in the anagen phase (visit the Dermagyms page on hair growth). The anagen phase is the active growth phase of the hair. During this phase, the hair follicle is filled with cells rich in melanin, the pigment that absorbs the laser light energy, destroying the cells responsible for hair growth.

When the hair is in the catagen or telogen phase, it is not connected to the hair bulb, where the cells responsible for growth are located, and therefore cannot be permanently destroyed by the laser.

This is why it is important to wait for the hairs to enter the anagen phase before proceeding with permanent laser hair removal. The hair growth cycle varies by body area and individual, so it is essential to follow a specific protocol tailored to each person to achieve the best possible results.

Since not all hairs are in the anagen phase at the same time and the laser does not destroy all follicle cells in one go, multiple sessions will be needed. On average, 6 to 8 sessions are required for maximum results.

Benefits of Permanent Laser Hair Removal

There are many benefits to permanent laser hair removal. First, it is very effective. Most patients notice a significant reduction in hair growth after just a few treatment sessions. Secondly, it is faster than other hair removal methods, such as shaving or waxing. Finally, it is virtually painless and requires no recovery time, making it an ideal choice for those with an active lifestyle.

Laser hair removal is also the only safe and effective method for people with ingrown hairs (visit the Dermagyms page on ingrown hairs). Ingrown hairs occur when hairs cannot break through the skin’s surface and grow under the skin, causing inflammation, redness, bumps, and sometimes even infections. Since the laser ultimately destroys the hair follicles permanently, it eliminates the root cause of ingrown hairs.

In conclusion, permanent laser hair removal is a safe, quick, and effective method for hair elimination. You will no longer need to wax, shave, or visit your aesthetician every month. It will also be the only long-term treatment method for ingrown hair issues, putting an end to irritations, inflammation, or infections! You will save time and money for smooth skin without problems related to ingrown hairs.

Risks of Permanent Laser Hair Removal

Although permanent laser hair removal is considered a safe and effective method, there are risks associated with the treatment. The most common side effects include redness, swelling, and skin sensitivity. These effects are generally temporary and subside within hours or days following the treatment. It is very important to follow the instructions of the specialist and apply a specific post-treatment gel available at the clinic.

In rare cases, burns, scarring, or pigmentation changes may occur. It is important to choose a qualified and experienced professional to perform the treatment to minimize these risks.

At Dermagyms, we operate under medical supervision, and our specialists are trained in aesthetic medicine, practicing for over 7 years, following strict protocols set by our medical direction.

Am I a Candidate for Permanent Laser Hair Removal?

The best candidates for permanent laser hair removal are individuals with dark hair and light skin. Dark hair contains more melanin, making it easier for the laser beam to target them. Individuals with lighter skin are also good candidates because the laser beam is less likely to cause damage to the skin.

However, people with blonde, red, or gray hair may not be good candidates for permanent laser hair removal, as their hair contains less melanin, making it harder to target. Individuals with darker skin may also not be good candidates because the laser beam may target the melanin in the skin, causing burns or dark spots.

Before undergoing permanent laser hair removal, it is important to consult a professional to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this hair removal method. Healthcare professionals can also provide advice on how to prepare your skin for the procedure and minimize the risk of complications.

In summary, if you have dark hair and light skin, you are likely a good candidate for permanent laser hair removal. This method will also be effective for individuals with phototype 4 (Mediterranean skin). For phototypes 5 and 6, it is advisable to consult a specialist using the Nd

laser, specifically designed for darker skin. However, it will always be important to consult a healthcare professional to determine if this hair removal method is appropriate for your individual situation.

How to Prepare for Permanent Laser Hair Removal?

There are contraindications and specific preparations before undergoing permanent laser hair removal. First, it is important to avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least three weeks before the treatment. This is because the laser light beam is absorbed by melanin, meaning that dark hairs will absorb the energy. If the skin is tanned, there is a risk that the laser light beam will also be absorbed by the excess melanin in the skin, which can lead to burns or scarring. Additionally, it is important to shave the hairs to be treated before the treatment, as long hairs can absorb the laser light at the surface and cause burns.

It is very important to know that pregnant or breastfeeding individuals will need to postpone treatments. Certain medical conditions or medications may not be compatible with the permanent hair removal treatment (visit the Dermagyms page on laser treatment and contraindications).

Therefore, it is crucial during the consultation and before each session to accurately answer the questions posed by the specialist to minimize risks. At the slightest doubt, the session will be postponed.

Costs of Permanent Laser Hair Removal

If you are considering permanent laser hair removal, one of your main concerns will likely be the cost of the treatment in Montreal.

The cost of permanent laser hair removal in Montreal varies depending on several factors, including the size of the area to be treated, the number of sessions required, and the type of equipment and reputation of the aesthetic center. Generally, the larger the area to be treated, the higher the cost of the laser hair removal treatment.

In Montreal, the average cost of a session of permanent laser hair removal ranges from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the size of the area to be treated. The most common areas are the legs, back, underarms, and bikini line, which are the largest and most difficult areas to treat. The cost of a session of permanent laser hair removal for these areas can vary between $50 and $500.

However, it is important to note that many people require multiple sessions to achieve satisfactory results, which can significantly increase the overall cost of permanent laser hair removal. On average, it is recommended to plan for 6 to 8 sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve optimal results. Therefore, it is essential to consider all these factors before deciding to opt for permanent laser hair removal in Montreal. It is also important to conduct thorough research to find a reliable aesthetic center with experienced professionals and recent technologies approved by Health Canada, preferably under medical supervision, that offers competitive rates and satisfactory results.

In conclusion, the cost of permanent laser hair removal in Montreal varies depending on several factors, including the area to be treated, the number of sessions required, the technologies used, and the reputation of the clinic or center, with or without medical direction. It is essential to take these factors into account before deciding to undergo this hair removal method and to choose a reliable and experienced aesthetic center to achieve the best possible results.

In Conclusion

Permanent laser hair removal is a very effective and practical method for achieving permanent hair elimination, but it carries certain risks that are important to understand before making a decision. With the appropriate preparation advice and a qualified professional, this method can be an excellent choice for permanently eliminating unwanted hair or ingrown hairs. If you are interested in permanent laser hair removal, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a professional to discuss your options and the precautions to take to achieve the best possible results. Each person is unique and will have a personalized treatment plan.