Are You a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

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Many of us, especially women, spend a lot of time and money removing unwanted hair from our bodies. We resort to shaving, cutting or waxing, but these are only temporary solutions to the problem. Thanks to new hair removal techniques, there are now ways to save time and money and help us achieve the results we want.

New technology in laser hair removal has opened doors for everyone. Those who were once considered poor candidates for laser hair removal – people with dark skin or those with red, blonde or gray hair – can now receive advanced laser hair removal treatment and achieve excellent results. With treatments becoming more and more available to everyone, your chances of success with treatments today depends on the laser hair removal technology utilized by your hair removal clinic.

What Determines if You’re an Ideal Candidate for Laser Hair Removal

Any person looking to remove unwanted body hair would represent an ideal candidate for laser hair removal. The perfect candidate has fair skin and dark hair. Those with dark skin are also qualified, but people with darker skin are more likely to experience post-treatment discoloration for up to six months. According to studies, results can vary widely, and even the best candidate might not always get the best results.

Note that certain lasers have been developed to work with your skin and hair combination. It’s important that you shop around until you find a clinic that caters to your unique needs.  Basically, these are the things that determine whether you would be a good candidate:

• Skin type – the lighter the skin tone, the better
• Color and texture of hair – dark hair, such as black or dark brown and coarse is best
• Presence of any recent skin tanning – patient should wait until the tan fades before treatment
• Skin discoloration – the presence of viral or bacterial infection or history of skin disease should be checked

There are many reasons why you may want to undergo laser hair removal. The more common goals include:

• To enhance appearance and boost self-confidence
• To achieve smoother looking skin
• To save time and money on temporary hair removal practices such as shaving, cutting and waxing

Whatever your reasons, you must understand that laser hair removal is designed for improvement, not perfection. As a patient, you should have realistic goals and expectations for your treatment. You’ll want to consult with two to three different providers to determine what laser system will give you the best results.

Be sure to discuss your reasons with the doctor during your consultation visit. This will also help the doctor determine whether you are fit for the procedure. After finding a qualified practitioner, it is important to discuss your condition and fitness thoroughly. A consultation is also a chance for your doctor to view the area targeted for treatment, explain the procedure in detail and discuss the risks, benefits and costs.

Should you find yourself in a situation where laser hair removal is not recommended due to certain medical conditions, a referral to an electrolysis practice may be given by your doctor. And of course, there are plenty of effective hair removal treatments at home you can also try.

Laser hair removal, like any other medical procedure, has its own set of risks and complications. However, these can be reduced by asking your clinic what medications may be available following any pre or post-procedure instructions you are given. You can further minimize these risks by choosing a reputable laser hair removal clinic.

Good luck!

AmericanLaser @ September 3, 2009

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