Being a woman often means having to deal with unwanted body hair. If you are tired of razors, epilators and waxing, laser hair removal can be a long-term solution. However, the pain associated with the procedure can be a turn-off for many women. Here’s everything you need to know about pain and how to manage it.
What is laser hair removal?
The process of laser hair removal involves using a concentrated beam of light to target the hair follicles. The laser heats and destroys the follicle, preventing hair growth. During the procedure, you may feel a slight stinging or burning sensation, but this will depend on the type of laser used.
After the procedure, you may experience some mild pain or skin sensitivity, which can last up to two days. However, the pain is usually much less intense than that experienced with waxing or epilators.
How to reduce the pain of laser hair removal?
One of the few side effects of laser hair removal is the pain of the process, related to the fact that you are burning your hair. To reduce the discomfort, you can use anaesthetic creams, often containing a local anaesthetic, such as lidocaine or prilocaine, which works by blocking pain signals from the nerves. There are several brands of anesthetic creams on the market, such as EMLA, LMX, Ametop, and Dr. Numb. The active ingredients may vary by brand, but most contain a combination of lidocaine and prilocaine. Anesthetic creams are usually applied to the skin 30 to 60 minutes before the laser hair removal procedure.
It is important to note that the use of anesthetic creams can cause side effects such as itching, redness and skin irritation. Before using a numbing cream, it is recommended that you speak with a health care professional to ensure that it is appropriate for your situation and to get instructions on how to use it properly.
You can also practice deep breathing or distract yourself by listening to music or watching a movie.
Is laser hair removal worth the cost?
Laser hair removal has many advantages, including a longer life span than other hair removal methods. You can also say goodbye to ingrown hairs and follicular infections. It is important to note, however, that risks and side effects can occur, such as burns, scarring, pigment changes or infections. It is recommended to choose a qualified professional and follow all post-treatment instructions to avoid these side effects and in case of problems, to consult a physician immediately.