Are you tired of constantly battling unwanted hair that keeps coming back? You’ve had your run with shaving, waxing, and plucking. Are you now looking for better options? Welcome to the world of laser depilation, and trust us, this one is a game-changer!
One of the common reasons for unwanted hair growth is hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalances trigger increased androgen levels in the body, which causes hair growth in a male-like pattern. Common conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing’s syndrome, adrenal gland disorders, and some thyroid disorders are some of the common hormonal conditions we see today. Hair growth in a male-like pattern is known as hirsutism. Menopause can also be a cause of hirsutism due to decreased estrogen levels.
Laser depilation is a procedure to remove unwanted hair for everyone. In this blog, we will focus on how laser depilation can help hormonal hair growth.
What is Hormonal Hair Growth?
Hormonal hair growth is clinically referred to as hirsutism. It is a condition wherein women experience male-pattern hair growth. It is generally seen in areas associated with higher testosterone levels. This includes the face, chest, abdomen, lower back, and inner thighs. It is completely normal to have a reasonable amount of body hair in these regions, but excessive or coarse hair in these regions might signal a hormonal imbalance.
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a condition that affects hormonal regulation and ovulation. It is one of the common causes of excessive hair growth. Women with PCOS have a higher level of androgens or male hormones, and this stimulates the excess hair growth. Studies have shown that 70% of women with PCOS experience excess facial or body hair.
Thyroid dysfunction, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, also disrupts hormonal balance, which affects hair growth patterns.
Menopause causes decreased estrogen levels and results in androgen dominance. This is another condition that can lead to increased facial or body hair.
Increased hair growth is seen in specific areas of the body. On the face, it is usually on the chin, jawline, and upper lip. Excess hair growth can also occur in the neck, chest, abdomen, lower back, and inner thighs.
Why Hormonal Hair is Different
The growth texture and loss of hormonal hair are affected by hormone levels. Hormone changes can alter the hair’s appearance, causing it to become brittle, thicker, or grow excessively in some areas of the body. It can also disrupt the hair’s natural growth cycle.
Hair texture and volume can be affected by hormonal imbalances. It can make the hair smoother and shinier or drier and more brittle. It can stimulate excessive hair growth on the face and body in women with high androgen levels. It can also disrupt the normal hair growth cycle.
Hormonal hair is often resistant to waxing and shaving. If the hormonal imbalance is not managed, hair regrowth will persist. Laser depilation targets hair in the anagen phase of the growth cycle. Hormonal hair grows in cycles that don’t sync with laser treatment plans.
Does Laser Depilation Work on Hormonal Hair?
Laser depilation can be effective for hormonal hair removal. The effectiveness of laser depilation will primarily depend on hair thickness, skin tone, and the number of sessions.
Laser depilation shows better results for thick, coarse, pigmented hair. Hormonal hair, especially facial hair, is often coarse and dark and can be reduced effectively with laser depilation.
In the past, when technology was evolving, laser depilation was most effective on light skin and dark hair, mostly. Today, the more advanced lasers are suitable for all skin tones. For lighter skin tones, Alexandrite and Diode lasers are highly effective. Nd: YAG lasers are the gold standard for darker skin tones. They penetrate deeper and are less likely to cause burns or pigmentation changes.
Clients with hormonal imbalances will typically require more sessions for noticeable hair reduction. Where clients may need 6 to 8 sessions to see a noticeable change, clients with hormonal imbalances might need 8 to 12 sessions. Clients with hormonal imbalances will also require ongoing maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months. This is because the dysregulated hormone levels are an ongoing state and will continue to stimulate new hair growth.
Laser depilation does not guarantee 100% permanent hair removal. This is true especially in hormonal cases. Set realistic expectations, and a dramatic reduction in the amount and thickness of the hair should be the goal.
IPL stands for Intense Pulse Light and is often confused with laser. IPL is not actually a laser and is less effective on coarse, hormonal hair.
If you have hormonal hair, book a consultation at Colibri Laser and Beauty and ask for a patch test. They have equipment that meets the Canadian regulatory standards and offer the best services.
How to Prepare for Laser Depilation with Hormonal Hair
It is better to stick to this checklist before your laser depilation session.
- Waxing or plucking hair 4 to 6 weeks before your session should be avoided.
- Shaving 24 to 48 hours before treatment is recommended.
- Sun exposure and certain skin products before your session are to be avoided.
- Once you commit to the procedure, be consistent. Avoid skipping sessions for best results
Aftercare and Maintenance for Long-Term Results
After your laser depilation session, avoid certain products such as retinol or fragranced creams. Your skin may appear slightly red and sensitive post-treatment. Use a higher SPF sunscreen daily. Schedule touch-up sessions every 6 to 12 months according to hair growth.
FAQs
Here are the answers to five commonly asked questions about laser depilation.
#1. Will my hair come back after laser depilation?
Yes, it is possible. If the underlying cause of the hormonal imbalance is not treated, the hormones will remain unregulated. A hormonal imbalance will still cause excessive hair growth. Laser depilation can reduce the density, coarseness, and speed of regrowth, but remember, it is not a 100% permanent removal for hormonal hair. Maintenance sessions every six to 12 months will be required if the underlying hormonal condition is not fully managed.
#2. Is laser hair removal safe for dark skin?
Yes, it is with the right type of laser that suits the skin tone. Different places have different wavelengths, which are suitable for certain skin tones and types.
#3. Does laser hurt more on the face than the body?
Yes, the face can indeed be more sensitive than the rest of the body, especially the upper lip and chin. Most people describe it as a feeling of a quick snapping sensation. Pain levels vary based on the individual’s pain threshold. It also depends on the thickness of the hair. Facial hair tends to be coarse, which can make the first few sessions more painful. But don’t worry, it gets easier over time.
#4. Will I still need to shave during treatments?
Yes, but shaving is the only method that is recommended. Shaving before the treatment helps the laser target the root of the hair beneath the skin. Other forms of hair removal, such as waxing, plucking, or threading, may remove the hair from the root, which prevents the laser from targeting the follicle. The need to shave will decrease as you go through the treatments and will stop altogether after several sessions.
Conclusion
Laser depilation is effective for hormonal hair growth. It is a powerful tool when combined with hormonal management.
If you are someone who has been struggling with hormonal hair growth and constant shaving has caused pigmentation issues, then hopefully this blog has brought you some clarity. Colibri Laser and Beauty in Toronto has professionals with experience in laser depilation. Book a consultation today and get started right away!