Should You Have Laser Hair Removal Performed On Your Legs?
If you added up all of the hours you've spent shaving your legs over the years, you would probably be horrified at the total. Luckily, there is an alternative to shaving again and again: laser hair removal. While this treatment is not right for everyone, it does grant many ladies freedom from shaving and waxing. Here's a look at the pros and cons of the procedure in order to help you make a more informed decision as to whether laser hair removal is right for you.
Pros of Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is long-lasting.
The FDA markets laser hair removal as a permanent hair reduction treatment. Once you have it performed, the effects will be life-long, though you may need the occasional "touch up" depending on your hair quality and skin type. However, this is far less burdensome than having to shave every other day or go for waxing appointments every month.
Serious side effects are rare.
Most patients experience some burning and itching after the procedure, but these can be calmed down with moisturizers and some ice. Serious side effects (which are not that serious in the grand scheme of things) include scabbing and bruising following treatment, and these are very rare as long as you follow your doctor's aftercare instructions.
Cons of Laser Hair Removal
It's not very effective for light-colored hair.
Laser hair removal works by attacking the melanin, which is the pigment in the hair. Darker hairs have a lot more melanin, which makes them easily removed with laser treatment. However, light hairs are hard to treat with this procedure, since they are low in melanin. If you have light hair, you may need many laser hair removal treatments in order for the procedure to be effective; some people with light hair don't experience full hair removal even with numerous treatments.
The cost can be high when treating legs.
The cost of laser hair removal depends on what area of the body you're having treated. Typically, patients can expect to pay between $650 and 800 per session when having hair removed from the legs, since they are one of the larger body parts. This can add up if you end up needing multiple sessions to yield your preferred results.
If you have dark hair and don't mind the cost, laser hair removal can be a safe way to permanently get rid of hair on your legs. Before you reach for that razor again, consider whether this treatment is right for you.