While a full head of hair is desirable, most people would prefer that it not grow on other areas of the body such as the legs, back, bikini area, underarms, and face. In the past, the only options were either painful, ineffective, or both, however today's appearance-conscious folks now have the choice of laser removal which produces superior results with much less discomfort. Follicles are destroyed by way of laser light that is absorbed into their pigments. With this helpful guide to laser hair removal Worcester patients can decide if it's for them

The most commonly used types of lasers implemented in this form of treatment are the alexandrite, diode, and Neodymium YAG, all of which have been approved by the FDA for this purpose. While the procedure still gives the best results on light-complexioned people with darker hair, new technological developments now offer satisfactory outcomes for dark-skinned people.

Some follicles may be resistant to the treatment, and grow back, which will require additional applications, but most will respond favorably. One area of the body where laser cannot be used is around the eyes, as this can cause damage to the vision. Side effects may be experienced by some people, most commonly, the treatment area will be slightly swollen and tender afterwards or discolored, but this will not persist.

This is a procedure which should only be performed by a doctor who is board certified and has experience with its administration. At the initial consultation, the doctor will determine if the patient is a good candidate for this treatment and he or she will fully explain what can be expected from its outcome and the cost involved.

There will also be certain measures that the patient must take in order to prepare for the procedure and increase its effectiveness. It will be necessary to avoid sun exposure and the use of sunless tanning products for up to six weeks before the treatment and to also refrain from other methods of hair removal except for shaving, which may actually improve the results.

When the patient arrives at the clinic for the procedure, he or she will be given protective eye-wear and a topical anesthetic will be applied to the area which will be treated. The doctor will then direct the laser device onto the region of skin, and as it is activated, light pulses will be released into the target follicles, the skin will not overheat as a cooling tip or gel will prevent this. Large areas may take over an hour, while small ones just a few minutes.

Once the treatment is completed, it is normal to expect some swelling and redness for the first several hours. Ice or aloe gel can help relieve this discomfort and if indicated, a steroid cream may be prescribed. Pain can also be addressed with analgesic medications. Staying away from direct UV light is necessary as well.

Results will vary from one person to the next. In most cases, the patient may require about four to six treatments, with a few weeks between each of them. Hairs may remain gone for several years, or some people may have to go for the occasional maintenance session every year or half a year to ensure that it won't grow back.