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Does At Home Laser Hair Removal Work? Benefits & Side Effects
With laser hair removal becoming the most sought-after solution, at-home laser devices are gaining popularity in the market. Many people already have one at their homes. But the real question is, “Is laser hair removal at home safe?” Here we are with this article to delve into at-home laser hair removal. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything about laser hair removal at home, including its working mechanism and potential side effects. Additionally, we will also compare at-home laser hair removal with professional treatments to help you make an informed decision.
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Understanding Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal works by targeting melanin in the hair follicles and destroying them without harming the surrounding area. This selective photothermolysis [1] inhibits future hair growth and ultimately results in a permanent hair reduction. Laser technology differs among various clinics based on their ability to address different skin tones, types and hair types. Since it is an advanced professional treatment, you need an expert to perform the treatment to ensure maximum safety, efficacy and optimal results. At-home laser devices, on the other hand, are less effective than professional lasers at clinics. Let’s explore whether at-home lasers can deliver long-lasting results in the following sections.
Does At-Home Laser Hair Removal Work?
Yes, laser hair removal at home helps reduce hair growth. However, you may need multiple sessions to get the results, which, again, are not permanent. First things first, you need to understand that at-home laser devices are not the same as lasers. They use IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) to target the hair follicles and inhibit hair growth. Although the mechanism [2] of action appears similar to that of in-clinic lasers, they are less powerful. That said, the less power they have, the less effective they are, and hence, you need more sessions to achieve your desired results. I hope this answers your question. Now, let us look at some of the disadvantages of at-home lasers.
Side Effects Of Laser Hair Removal At Home
Although at-home laser devices give you the comfort to treat unwanted hair from the comfort of your home, they do come with a set of cons. The side effects of trying laser hair removal at home include injuries, burns, and skin irritation. Moreover, they are not suitable for all skin tones, particularly those with darker [3] skin tones. Since they have low intensity, you require more accuracy and precision when targeting the hair. As a result, it takes a lot of time to remove hair and requires multiple sessions on a regular basis.
At Home Vs Professional Laser Hair Removal
Here is a comparative analysis of at-home laser hair removal vs professional to help you understand and make an informed decision.
| Parameter | Laser Hair Removal At Home | Professional Laser Hair Removal |
| Device Type | Most at-home laser devices utilise IPL technology. | Clinics use Alexandrite, Diode and Nd:YAG [4] lasers for hair removal |
| Effectiveness | Less power and hence less effective. | More power and highly effective. |
| Safety | Laser removal at home is generally safe when used correctly and the instructions are followed. | The treatment is very safe, as it takes place under the supervision of an expert dermatologist after a patch test, and following stringent protocols and safety guidelines. |
| Pain Level | Causes low to moderate discomfort, which varies depending on the individual’s tolerance level. | Minimal discomfort, as the devices come with a cooling tip |
| Customisation | Limited settings for different skin tones, hair types and body areas. | Customisable professional settings are available to cater to individual skin tones and types, hair types and colour, and body areas. |
| Safety for Sensitive Areas | Laser hair removal at home is not recommended for sensitive areas, like the face, bikini area or underarms. | Safe for all areas of the body, including sensitive areas, like the face, underarms, and bikini area. |
| Treatment Duration | Each session of laser hair removal at home may take about 20-60 minutes, depending on the target area and device strength. | Devices have high speeds, and each session typically lasts 15-45 minutes, providing maximum coverage of the target area. |
| No. of Sessions | Laser removal at home requires 12-16 sessions for noticeable results. | Requires about 6-8 sessions for optimal results. |
| Duration of Results | Results are temporary, and you may notice hair regrowth sooner. | Long-lasting results with permanent hair reduction. |
| Convenience | Can be done from the comfort of your home. | Since the treatment is available only at dermatologists’ clinics, you will need to schedule appointments and attend sessions at these clinics. |
| Risk of Side Effects | Laser removal at home involves a high risk of injuries, burns, and irritation when not performed correctly. | Generally considered safe when performed by an expert dermatologist, with rare side effects and minimal downtime. |
| Pre- and Post-Care | There is limited professional guidance and requires basic preparation, like shaving. | Detailed guidance and instructions starting from consultation, to pre- and post-procedure. |
| Hygiene | Depends on how the user maintains the device. | Dermatologists perform the treatment in a sterile environment, sticking to global safety rules and guidelines. |
Don’t Risk It: Choose Professional Laser Hair Removal From Oliva Clinics
Now that you know professional laser hair removal is better than at-home devices, it’s time to look for the best clinic. All reputable clinics offer laser hair removal. However, Oliva Clinics stands out from the competition for its advanced US FDA-approved Soprano Titanium device, which delivers maximum results with minimised risks. Not just that, at Oliva, our expert dermatologists, who are skilled at handling lasers, perform the procedure.
Laser Hair Removal Procedure At Oliva Clinics
If you opt for a laser hair removal treatment at any of the Oliva Clinics, know that you are in safe hands. To further justify this claim, here is a step-by-step process of the treatment.
- Pre-Treatment: The process begins with an initial consultation with one of our expert dermatologists to understand your needs and concerns. During this stage, you will have a complete skin and hair analysis. The doctor will evaluate your family and medical history to determine if your condition is inherited. They will also check for hormonal disorders to identify if that is the underlying cause. Based on this examination, they will curate a personalised laser treatment plan that includes the minimum number of sessions you may need. Also, they will provide you with pre-care instructions to prepare your skin for the treatment.
- During Treatment: On the day of the LHR procedure, trained therapists clean, shave, and mark the target area with grids. Now, they will customise the laser setting according to your skin tone and hair type. They will provide you with safety goggles to protect your eyes from the laser. After a patch test, they will perform the LHR treatment by moving the hand-held laser device across the target area. The equipment features a cool tip that protects your skin from injuries or burns while ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the procedure.
- Post-Care: At the end of every session, you will receive post-care guidance from your dermatologist. They will schedule your next visit to track your progress.
Before & After Results Of Laser Hair Removal At Oliva Clinics
Don’t believe us? Take a look at the before-and-after pictures of our clients who chose LHR treatment. Check out the results for yourselves to decide if you want to join the club.
Before
After
Client Name : Ameena Ara Khanum
Client ID: SN06C286
Before
After
Client Name : Ariema Singh
Client ID: SC06C1083
Before
After
Client Name : Disha Krishna
Client ID: GB06C8693
Before
After
Client Name : Ameena Ara Khanum
Client ID: SN06C286
Before
After
Client Name : Ameena Ara Khanum
Client ID: SN06C286
Takeaway
Laser hair removal at home can be a convenient and cost-effective option. However, it does come with a huge list of disadvantages. Even if the devices are FDA-approved and claim to be safe and effective, nothing can match the accuracy and precision of in-clinic laser machines, which offer utmost safety and maximum efficacy.
If you have changed your mind from at-home laser treatment to a professional treatment, Oliva Clinic is all set to make your experience worthwhile. What are you waiting for? Schedule your appointment at your nearest Oliva Clinic today.
