Question:
Has anyone had laser hair removal done? I really want to have this procedure
but need to know:
1. Does it really work?
2. Is it painful?
3. Is it permanent?
I would be interested in knowing what your experiences have been.
Answer:
While I personally haven't had it done, many women in the PCOS support group
that I run have. We also had a cosmetic surgeon come in and talk to the
group about laser hair removal and to answer questions.
Yes, it works, but it is best called "laser hair reduction" rather than
removal. Some people will see permanent results after 3 treatments spaced 2
months apart and something like 85% will see
thinning and lighter hair growth. The best candidates at the moment have
light skin and dark hair. The process doesn't work well on white or blonde
hairs. If you have darker skin, they can give you lightening creams for
like 6 weeks prior to the procedure. It is also best that you not have a
tan if you have it done in summer months.
The pain level depends on your tolerance. The best analogy that I have
heard from several of the women who have had it done is that it feels like
rubber bands snapping against your skin.
One thing to keep in mind is it's NOT cheap, particularly if you need a
large area done. As I said above, most places want to do a series of 3
treatments on the area, spaced out 6-8 weeks, so be sure to factor that cost
as well.
