Laser hair removal in Medellín

Laser hair removal uses a highly concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. That light turns into heat, damages the follicle and slows hair growth. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the most common areas are the face, underarms, legs, bikini area and the rest of the body. Many people search for it as permanent hair removal, but the ASPS makes clear that it reduces hair and doesn't remove it completely: the hair that grows back is finer and lighter, and there is less of it. And on women's faces, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), hormones keep it from being permanent. That's why we talk about gradual, long-lasting reduction.

In the past, according to the AAD, it could only be done safely on light skin with dark hair. Today it is also an option for brown or dark skin, and for light hair on light skin, although in these cases it has to be done very carefully. On darker skin, the ASPS advises using a less intense laser so the outer layer of the skin isn't damaged. Your results also depend on the area, the color and thickness of the hair, and the growth phase it's in. Your doctor chooses the type of laser and its intensity after examining your skin.

In some cases it's better to wait or to consider another option:

• A recent tan, whether from the sun, a tanning bed or a spray tan: the ASPS advises waiting until it fades, because the pigment in your skin absorbs the laser light and makes it less effective.
• White or gray hair: it may not have enough pigment for the laser to work, according to the ASPS.

Tell your doctor if you tend to scar, if you've ever had a keloid, if you get cold sores or genital herpes outbreaks, or if you've taken isotretinoin (a medication for severe acne): the AAD says your doctor needs to know this before you start.

Laser hair removal works only on hair. Many people say “laser” for several different treatments, so it helps to clear that up:

• Sun spots, texture, pores or fine lines: laser skin treatment or chemical peels, depending on your skin.
• Melasma or dark spots that keep coming back: a melasma and dark spot treatment plan.
• Clogged pores or oily skin: a medical facial.

If you want to work on several things, at your consultation we'll tell you what makes sense for you and in what order.

It isn't surgery, but it is a medical procedure and it has risks. The AAD and the ASPS list these, among others:

• Discomfort, swelling and redness: these are the most common. They're usually mild and go away in a few days.
• Blisters, crusting or infection.
• Cold sore outbreaks.
• Changes in skin color, lighter or darker, especially on brown skin. They are usually temporary, but some are permanent.
• Scarring or changes in skin texture.

The AAD warns that in inexperienced hands it can cause burns, permanent changes in skin color and scars. Before you start, we go over each risk with you and you sign an informed consent form.

Once you decide to start, according to the AAD and the ASPS:

• Don't tan, either in the sun or in a tanning bed, and don't use self-tanner.
• Wear a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day. Under the Medellín sun, don't skip it.
• Don't pull hair out by the root, with tweezers or wax: the laser needs to find it in the follicle.
• Tell your doctor what medications you take, including over-the-counter ones like aspirin.

After each session, your skin will be red and swollen, like a mild sunburn; a cold compress helps. You can go on with your day, keeping direct sun off the area and staying away from tanning beds.