Laser Treatment for Facial Hair Removal - Benefits & Results

The full form of LASER is Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. This treatment or procedure uses a special beam of light instead of any instruments or surgical equipment.

The powerful light beams are concentrated into the hair follicles when laser treatment for facial hair removal is employed. Each pulse is found to be effective enough to target numerous hairs in a fraction of a second.

Laser treatment for facial hair works on the principle of selective photothermolysis. In this procedure, heat from the laser is sent to the cells with pigment (melanin) subjected to destruction.

The dark-colored hair strands are found to have high levels of pigment. As a result, more heat is absorbed by these hair cells. The absorbed heat is then transferred to the follicles, which are destroyed and prevented from growing back.

The process uses emitted light with a wavelength between 600-1200 nanometers, i.e., a range that is selectively absorbed by the melanin in the skin.

Further, the thermally mediated reaction diffuses heat in the melanin-rich hair structures (shaft, matrix, and follicles). As per one theory, the melanin quantity is higher in the shaft and matrix than in the follicles.

The high melanin in these structures captures sufficient heat and transfers it to the follicles and other structures for destruction.

Anatomy and Physiology of Facial Hair

The type of hair on the face differs from the hair that grows on the human head. Before digging more into the procedure of laser hair removal face, let's look at the anatomy and physiology of facial hair. 

1. Human hair consists of 3 elements, i.e., 
   1. Shaft (existing out of the skin surface), 
   2. Root (soft and thick bulb present at the base of hair), 
   3. Follicle (a sac-like structure from where the hair grows). 
2. Hair on the face, arms, and legs is known as vellus hair, commonly referred to as peach fuzz. This hair type is usually fine, thin, and short, with the colour varying from person to person.
   Contrary to this, the hair present on the scalp is thick and long, known as terminal hair. 
3. The purpose of vellus hair is to protect the skin from unfavourable rises or falls in the environmental temperature.
   Also, this type of hair on the skin helps an individual to sense the happenings in the surrounding in the form of goosebumps. 
4. The growth of vellus hair depends on one's genetic makeup and the alteration in hormonal levels of the body that happens with age. 
5. This type of hair grows slower than terminal hair, which grows at the speed of 1 cm per month.

Normally the vellus hair is light, not prominently visible, and troubleless; however, in some specific medical conditions or hormonal shifts, this type of hair can seem to be problematic.

Laser treatment for unwanted hair might not be suitable for all. An individual or patient undergoing this treatment must satisfy a few criteria. Also, laser treatment for facial hair removal cost is usually higher than other hair removal methods.

Hence, it is always better to check if one fits the criteria or not beforehand. Below are some of them that the medical practitioner checks before commencing the procedure. 

1. The ideal candidates for laser hair removal face are those with light skin and dark hair.
   This is because such individuals will have more pigment (melanin) in the hair follicles than the skin, preventing the competition for laser beam absorption between the skin and hair. 
   1. For patients with dark complexion with dark hair, special or specific lasers are used for the procedure with the least to no complications.
      However, laser treatment cannot be accomplished for those with white or blonde hair on their skin as they do not possess pigment (melanin) in the hair, which is an essential part of this procedure. 
2. People suffering from medical conditions where the facial hair growth (vellus hair) turns into terminal hair can be considered as right candidates for laser treatment. 
   1. Hirsutism is a disorder where women experience dark and thick hair growth similar to men (on the body parts where females normally do not have terminal hair). 
   2. Hypertrichosis is another condition that can be treated using laser.
      It is slightly similar to hirsutism as an individual also experiences excessive terminal hair growth. However, in hypertrichosis, an individual may have excess hair growth all over the body including face. 
3. Patients with other skin conditions such as infections, rashes, open wounds, cuts, and tan are also not considered the right laser candidate.
4. People with or who had complications such as skin cancer or raised scars on the skin (keloid scars) do not stand as the right candidate for this procedure.
   Also, herpes simplex viral infection (HSV-2) and cold sores (blisters on lips and surrounding area) are the other conditions that do not favor laser treatment for facial hair removal. 
5. Laser treatment is also not advised for women who are pregnant or suspected of having a conception.
   ​​​​​​​Besides this, those who consume certain types of medication, e.g., for acne treatment, are not permitted to use a laser for facial hair.

Full-face laser hair removal procedure is based on true medical technology required by skilled and knowledgeable professionals (dermatologists) as there are potential risks associated with it. 

The procedure of laser treatment for facial hair is quick compared to other body parts due to the small target area. One can expect it to be completed in about 15 to 20 minutes.

Though this procedure does not cause pain or discomfort (in most cases), each step is monitored and executed with extreme care. Have a look at it below: 

1. The patient is asked to either lie on the bed or on a comfortable chair (depending upon the setup of the practitioner).
2. The doctor adjusts the laser considering a few factors of the patient, such as the colour and thickness of hair as well as the texture and colour of the skin site where the laser treatment will be employed for hair removal. 
3. After that, the doctor presses the laser instrument on the skin site subjected to hair removal. This instrument is convenient from the medical point of view as the practitioners are comfortable holding it with a single hand.
   At times, a cooling agent is also placed on the tip of the instrument to protect the skin's outer layer, i.e., reducing the possibility of side effects significantly. 
4. The laser is activated, and the light beam can pass through the skin and reach the hair follicles. Medical practitioners prefer a keen observation for a few minutes, in the beginning, to be assured that the treatment setting is proper.
   For this, a small skin area is chosen for the procedure as a patch test before commencing the full-fledged laser penetration. 

It is important on the patient's part to strictly follow the instructions or precautions prescribed by the doctor to keep away uncertainties.

Also, depending on the patient's medical history and current health status, the doctor decides the approach and the extent of this treatment.

It's the medical practitioner's responsibility to provide the patients with a set of guidelines for the procedure so that they have a clear picture of the preparations and precautions. Read below to know what a patient can expect before and on the day of the procedure. 

Before Laser Treatment for Facial Hair 

1. The most common and crucial advice given to the patient is to avoid any kind of chemical treatment, such as peel, clean up, facial, etc., at least for a week before the day of the procedure.
2. The patient is expected to stay away from artificial or natural tanning methods. That is, preventing tanning beds and exposure to the sun for a few days before the procedure.
   The reason behind this is a tanned facial surface (skin) reduces the effectiveness of laser treatment along with inviting the odds of side effects. 
3. Doctors also advise the patient to avoid the consumption of certain medicines such as anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, or blood thinners, as well as any herbal remedy that can elevate the chances of bleeding during the procedure.
4. The doctors may also physically examine the patient before the procedure to know the nature of the hair growth on the face.
5. In some cases, when the growth is more, the patient can be asked to shave the area, as laser treatment is not found to be effective if the hair is longer than the size of a grain.
6. The practitioner takes the patient's lifestyle, medical history, and other details.
   Besides this, the practitioner also assesses the growth and strength of the hair follicles to inform the patient about the number of sessions required (approximately) for laser hair removal face. 
7. The patient is notified of the laser treatment for facial hair removal cost of each session (or the required sessions in total), overall procedure, payment options and schedule, and the day on which the procedure will be performed.

On the day of Laser Treatment for Facial Hair

1. The patient must monitor the body temperature before visiting the doctor's clinic. They must maintain their body temperature on the normal side or lower than normal (if possible). This avoids discomfort during the procedure due to a warm temperature.
2. After confirming the patient's scheduled appointment, the medical administrator or the practitioners will check if the patient has followed the instructions. They verify the medical history and ensure the patient has taken all the precautions for the procedure. 
3. The doctors ask the patient to remove accessories or jewellery from the part of the body where the laser will be performed.
   For laser hair removal face, the patient must take off the nose ring, earrings, fake eyelashes, and related accessories. The patient is also asked to remove makeup from the face, and then thoroughly cleanse it with water. 
4. The facial surface is examined carefully for cuts or scars, and the signs of skin disease (if any) are observed before beginning. 
5. The doctor provides the patient with special goggles to protect their eyes from the laser beam.
6. The practising doctor or their assistant trims or shaves the hair about a few millimetres of the area to be subjected to laser treatment (if required).
7. A topical anaesthesia or numbing medication is applied to the site to reduce or eliminate any discomfort during the process. This is done about 20 to 30 minutes before the laser beam is administered.
8. The doctor chooses a small site of the face for a patch test. If this happens to be a success, the laser is then subject to the entire facial surface.

Once the procedure of laser treatment for facial hair is completed, the patient is expected to be aware of some important elements to avoid unfavourable outcomes.

Laser treatment for unwanted hair does not restrict an individual from returning to their routine or conducting daily activities. Read below to know the minimal but vital care required at the patient's end. 

The Recovery Process in the Hospital

1. There are possibilities for a patient to experience discomfort, redness, or swelling on the facial surface (similar to sunburns), which, most of the time, is not a matter of concern.The patients are advised to apply ice or ice packs immediately after the procedure.
2. Ice packs or ice wrapped in a cloth or towel are normally recommended, as direct ice application can cause skin irritation.Also, the patient must be aware not to put the ice on the face for longer as this can decrease the blood flow and increase the healing time. 
3. If the pain or discomfort intensity exceeds the tolerable limit, the patients can take over-the-counter medicines such as painkillers for quick relief.However, it is important to consult the medical practitioner and consume any kind of medication on their advice. 
4. Also, the patients can opt for moisturisers or anti-inflammatory creams as per the doctor's suggestion. 
5. Once the patient is settled and prepared to leave the doctor's clinic, they must cover their face before going out in the sun or exposing it to the outer environment impurities. 

Recovery Process/Expectation After Hospital Discharge

Patients experiencing redness or swelling on the face for the initial few hours after the treatment is normal. This kind of discomfort is expected to subside with time.

Below are some essential things the patient must remember to recover from the discomforts or prevent side effects. 

1. The patient is advised to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, i.e., SPF30, every day for at least a month after the procedure.
   This is because sunscreen helps in preventing the colour change of the laser-treated skin that can happen due to exposure to the sun. 
2. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 to 3 days after the procedure. This is because it can increase the body temperature, which can cause skin irritation due to excess body heat. 
3. Exposing the laser-treated area to heat can result in adverse skin reactions. This is because the laser is a heat-induced treatment, and any additional heat can lead to irritation on the skin.
   Hence, one must not bathe with warm water after laser treatment for unwanted hair. Similarly, it's vital to avoid activities such as hot saunas or steam baths. 
4. Moisturising the skin timely is important after the laser treatment, as the skin tends to become dry and sensitive. The patient must choose the right moisturiser for quick healing.
   A mild cleanser and moisturiser with non-comedogenic substituents should be used to keep the skin pores clean and increase the recovery rate.

First Follow-up Appointment

Most patients experience noticeable differences in hair growth after 2 to 3 weeks of the first laser for facial hair procedure. However, the results after a single session varies from patient to patient. Thus, the doctor decides the number of sessions a patient would need, considering the intensity of hair growth and other factors. 

An individual can avail of the next laser session at least 4 to 6 weeks after the present session. It's vital to continue taking the sessions until the hair growth ceases completely (considering the doctor's opinion).

Laser treatment is usually a permanent cure (in most cases) for unwanted facial hair but it's vital for an individual to book an appointment and see the medical practitioner once a year for the purpose of maintenance. 

Also, there are chances of no permanent hair loss in some cases, but the regrown hair appears thin and lighter in colour. For such patients, an annual maintenance appointment can help to reduce hair growth over the period.

Laser treatment for facial hair removal reviews is found to be on the positive side. Most people who availed of laser for facial hair experienced hair growth reduction of about 10 to 25%.

Below are some of the key benefits of laser treatment for facial hair.

1. Laser treatment is one of those hair removal procedures that offer long-lasting results as compared to methods such as shaving, waxing, trimming, etc. 
2. It is one of the least painful procedures (if conducted with care by experienced professionals) and does not involve invasive equipment. 
3. Employing laser treatment for removing hair reduces the chances of ingrown hair (the appearance of the raised or discoloured spot, essentially the hair strands that grow after shaving or trimming). 
4. Laser treatment offers a high degree of precision as it selectively works on dark and thick hair without causing harm to the surrounding area of the skin.

Laser treatment for unwanted hair has hardly any risks or complications. Though the side effects, such as swelling, redness,  irritation, etc., are found to subside within a week, rare cases of serious medical issues are also reported. Given below are some of them.

The skin colour after the laser treatment changes temporarily. However, there are chances that the patient can experience permanent changes in the skin texture and colour due to this procedure. 

Blisters on the skin are another rare complication of laser treatment. People with dark complexion are found to be more prone to this.

1. Laser treatment can potentially trigger medical conditions such as cold sores, bacterial infections, and viral infections such as herpes simplex.
   People with a history of any of these conditions are more likely to be affected by lasers.
2. One of the rarest side effects is excessive hair growth on the skin area, which was subjected to laser.
3. During the laser procedure, it is required to cover the eyes. This is because eyebrows, eyelids, and the area surrounding the eyes cannot be treated for laser hair removal as laser beams may damage the eyes or severe injury to them.

When is Consultation With the Doctor Needed?

Patients who underwent laser hair removal face may require a medical practitioner's help when they experience unfavourable outcomes of the procedure. Given below are some of the conditions where a doctor's consultation should be considered: 

1. There are chances of blisters appearing on the skin that is often discomforting or painful. If these blisters are left untreated they can result in changes such as scarring and pigmentation.
   Availing a consultation here is important for the patient to prevent the later on crises. 
2. There are also chances of laser irritating the hair follicles. This can lead to crusting, i.e. scab formation or visible slight bleeding.
   This condition should not be prevailed for longer, rather medical treatment should be taken for relieving it as soon as possible. 
3. Bleeding under the skin, characterised by purple spots or rashes are temporary and expected to heal within 3 to 5 days. If it's taking more time to heal, it's vital to consult the doctor.

Besides the above-mentioned complications, any pain, discomfort or irritation that continues more than a week should be bring to the doctor's notice by availing a consultation.

Any delay in availing the laser hair removal face does not bring risks or complications. However, once an individual has commenced the treatment, it becomes vital to stick to the maintenance.

Permanent hair loss through laser treatment becomes possible only when the hair follicles are hit at the right time. That is, in a phase of hair growth (anagen phase) that shoots more melanin and makes it more available for the laser beam to work. 

If individual delays or tends to skip the follow-up sessions for the laser treatment, there are high chance that the unwanted hair on the face will again start growing with the previous texture and colour. This, in a way, nullifies the effect of laser treatment as hair strands would become visible sooner.

Laser treatment for facial hair removal cost is usually between ₹ 2,000 to ₹ 4,000. The quote given by the medical centre or clinic is based on several factors such as the area subjected to hair removal (chin, lower face, upper face, forehead), type of laser technology used, number of sessions covered, treatment follow-ups, consultations charges, and so on.

The advancements in dermatology have made it possible for medical practitioners to use lasers for treating skin conditions. Laser treatment holds the potential to permanently eliminate hair growth from the face. Moreover, many people around the world are now switching to laser hair removal face due to the advantages it offers over other traditional hair removal methods.

If you consider availing lasers for removing unwanted hair, it's vital that you search for a healthcare source that is efficient and reliable enough to answer various questions about this treatment. How much is laser treatment for facial hair removal? Where to get it done? Am I a suitable candidate for this procedure? and so on. 

HexaHealth is one such upgraded and tech-advanced medium in the health industry that is capable of answering or providing the best set of medical advice related to laser treatment or any other health condition, treatment, therapy, etc. Our team of experts hold knowledgeable, experienced and skilled professionals, easily accessible through our website. Get in touch with us to experience the best of healthcare.

Suggested Reads

To read more on hair removal treatments, visit the following links:

• Laser for Hair Reduction (LHR)
• Laser for Hair Reduction (LHR) Cost in India