One of the surprising elements of laser hair removal is that not all of the hair falls out at once. Sometimes a few dead hairs and loose strands of hair remain, which is completely normal. Such dead hair follicles appear 1-3 weeks after the laser treatment. One may be tempted to pull on these dead hair strands to speed up the process.
This article explains why hair remains after laser treatment and what to do about it. Read the article to learn if plucking dead hair is a safe option and to gain further insight into the topic.
Table of contents:- Part 1: What do dead hair follicles look like after laser treatment?
- Part 2: Why doesn't my hair fall out after laser treatment?
- Part 3: How does hair loss occur after laser hair removal?
- Part 4: Is it safe to pull out dead hair after laser treatment?
- Part 5: Proper aftercare after laser hair removal
- Part 6: Conclusion
What do dead hair follicles look like after laser treatment?
The main purpose of laser hair removal is to damage the hair follicles to prevent further growth. After 1-3 weeks after treatment, black dots can sometimes be seen on the treated area. These are dead or damaged hair follicles that appear as stubble or black dots that look very similar to blackheads.
Why doesn't my hair fall out after laser treatment?
With laser hair removal, about 15% of the hair can be removed immediately, the rest takes about 7 to 30 days to fall out. This is mainly because hair loss goes through different stages and layers of skin and finally falls out. Several other factors actively contribute to this, including:
- Laser hair removal treatments take time to be effective, so hair loss will take a few weeks after treatment.
- The hair growth cycle can be an active cause. If the hair is still in the development phase, laser hair removal treatment may not work.
In order for hair to fall out, the hair follicle must shed the hair. This process takes several weeks and months. Patience is required during this time. Over time, hair loss will occur naturally.
How does hair loss occur after laser hair removal?
Hair loss is a normal result of laser hair removal treatments. Hair loss may be noticeable several weeks after treatment. In people with thick, dark hair, hair loss occurs in clumps. In people with thin hair, however, hair loss is limited to a few strands. Hair loss is noticeable in the shower or when rubbing the skin.
If you find that hair loss is too slow and annoying, you can opt for regular exfoliation with a loofah or washcloth or shave. These methods will help speed up hair loss.
Is it safe to pull out dead hair after laser treatment?
No, it is not advisable to pull out dead hair strands after laser hair removal. It is best to wait a few days before you start shaving. Pulling out dead hair can lead to serious problems such as:
- It can hinder the process of hair growth.
- Further laser hair treatments may not be effective.
- It can cause skin irritation and other complications.
When should you go to the doctor?
Laser hair removal causes minimal discomfort and problems. If you experience swelling, rashes, blisters, discoloration, or signs of infection, you should consult a doctor.
Proper aftercare after laser hair removal
Avoid sun exposure
The treated area will be sensitive after treatment and exposing it to further heat will only cause damage. Exposing the area to heat can only cause further damage. Apply sunscreen to the treated area or cover it with a towel if it is directly exposed to the sun. It is important to avoid sun exposure for a month before and after treatment.
Keep the treated area well moisturized
The heat from laser hair removal can cause sensitive, irritated skin, dry skin, and redness. To help alleviate these discomforts, use a light, fragrance-free moisturizer. Skipping moisturizer can lead to skin irritation and dryness.
Do not pluck or wax the treated hair
Plucking or waxing can make laser hair removal more difficult, so avoid these methods. Instead, you can shave the area after a week or two to speed up hair loss.
Tips for best results in laser hair removal
Preparing the skin before treatment is an important step as it can produce the best results after treatment. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Shave the day before your appointment:
This can increase the effectiveness of the treatment and prevent further symptoms.
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Avoid using irritants such as perfume, deodorants and perfumed lotions on the area before treatment:
The use of perfumes, deodorants and lotions can irritate the skin and hinder the treatment process as they act as a barrier between the hair root and the laser.
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Avoid tanning as this may hinder the laser hair treatment process.
Laser hair removal is not effective on tanned skin and increases the risk of burns and blistering.
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Exfoliate your skin before and after the treatment.
This helps to remove dead skin that clogs the pores. Exfoliating after treatment is advisable after a few weeks and not immediately.
Conclusion
You may see small black dots or stubble, but there is no need to worry as these are just dead hair follicles that will fall out after a few weeks.
Growth and hair loss is a natural process. Don't interrupt this process by forcefully pulling out dead hairs, as this can only complicate things for your skin and hair growth. Instead, follow up with aftercare, exfoliate regularly, and treat the area from time to time to get the most out of the treatment.
