Published by Dr. Lasi's Skin & Hair Clinic
Shaving, waxing and threading are quick, but the hair keeps coming back, and repeated waxing can cause bumps, ingrown hairs and darkening. Laser hair removal offers a longer-lasting option. It is one of the most requested treatments in dermatology clinics, and also one of the most misunderstood, so here is what you can realistically expect.
How does laser hair removal work?
The laser sends light energy that is absorbed by the dark pigment in the hair. The light turns into heat, which travels down the hair shaft and damages the follicle that produces it. Damaged follicles grow finer, lighter hair or stop growing hair for long periods. This is why the treatment is more accurately called laser hair reduction rather than permanent removal.
Is it safe for Indian skin?
Yes, when the right laser and settings are used. Brown skin also contains pigment, so the laser must target the hair without overheating the surrounding skin. Diode lasers with suitable cooling and carefully chosen settings are widely used for Indian skin types. At Dr. Lasi's, laser hair removal is done after a skin and hair assessment, and a test patch may be done first.
Who gets the best results?
- People with dark, coarse hair, because the laser needs pigment in the hair to work
- Those with unwanted hair on the face, underarms, arms, legs, back or bikini line
- People who get ingrown hairs or bumps from shaving and waxing
- Women with excess hair linked to PCOS, alongside medical treatment of the hormonal cause
White, grey, red and very light blonde hairs have little pigment and respond poorly. Fine, light facial down also responds less well.
Why do I need several sessions?
Hair grows in cycles, and the laser works best on hairs in the active growth phase. At any time, only a portion of hairs are in that phase, so treatment is repeated as new hairs enter it. Most people need six to eight sessions, spaced four to eight weeks apart depending on the area. Hormone-driven facial hair often needs more sessions and occasional maintenance.
How to prepare
- Avoid waxing, threading and plucking for about four weeks before, because the laser needs the hair root in place
- Shave the area a day before or as advised
- Avoid sun tanning and tanning products for a couple of weeks
- Tell the doctor about medicines, recent peels and any history of cold sores
- Come with clean skin, without deodorant or makeup on the area
What does a session feel like?
Most people describe a warm snapping sensation. Cooling built into the device and cold applied to the skin help keep it comfortable. Small areas such as the upper lip take a few minutes; larger areas such as the legs take longer.
Aftercare and side effects
Mild redness and swelling around the hair follicles are common and usually settle within hours to a day. Rarely, blistering, darkening or lightening of the skin can occur, which is why settings are matched to your skin type and sun protection is important afterwards.
- Use a gentle cleanser and moisturiser
- Apply sunscreen daily on exposed areas
- Avoid hot baths, steam, swimming and heavy exercise for a day
- Shave between sessions if needed, but do not wax or pluck
- Some treated hairs fall out over one to three weeks; this is expected
What results are realistic?
After a full course, most people see a large reduction in hair, with the remaining hair finer and lighter. Some regrowth over time is normal, especially with hormonal hair, and a few maintenance sessions may be needed. If you have sudden or rapidly increasing hair growth, see a doctor first, as it can sometimes be a sign of a hormonal condition that needs investigation.
Thinking about laser hair removal in Calicut? Book an appointment or call +91 81398 82226.
This article is for general information. For advice about your own skin or hair, please book a consultation.