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Facial Hair Removal

Facial hair in women, also known as hirsutism, refers to the presence of coarse, dark hair in areas where men typically grow hair, such as the chin, upper lip, cheeks, and neck. While it is normal for women to have some fine, light hair (vellus hair) on their faces, excessive or noticeable facial hair can be a source of distress and embarrassment.

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Causes ofFacial Hair in Women

The causes of facial hair in women are varied and can include:

Hormonal Imbalances

Androgens, such as testosterone, are typically higher in men but are also present in women in smaller amounts. Elevated levels of these hormones can lead to increased facial hair growth.

  • Cushing's Syndrome: This condition results from prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels, which can affect androgen levels.
  • Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: A group of genetic disorders affecting adrenal gland function, leading to increased androgen production.

Medications

Certain medications can cause hirsutism as a side effect. These include anabolic steroids, certain hormone therapies, and medications like minoxidil.

Genetics

Hirsutism can be inherited, with women from certain ethnic backgrounds (e.g., Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, South Asian) more likely to experience it.

Idiopathic Hirsutism

In some cases, the exact cause cannot be determined, and the condition is termed idiopathic hirsutism.

Options forFacial Hair Removal

With facial hair removal Manchester & Cheshire patients can receive a variety of available treatments, ranging from temporary to more permanent solutions:

  • Shaving: A quick and easy method, but it needs to be done frequently as hair regrows quickly.
  • Plucking/Tweezing: Effective for small areas, but can be time-consuming and sometimes painful.
  • Waxing: Removes hair from the root, resulting in longer-lasting smoothness. However, it can be painful and may cause skin irritation.
  • Threading: An ancient technique that uses a twisted thread to pull hair from the follicle. It is suitable for small areas like the eyebrows and upper lip.
  • Depilatory Creams: These creams contain chemicals that dissolve hair. They are easy to use but can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
  • Electrolysis: A method that uses electrical currents to destroy hair follicles. It is a permanent solution but can be time-consuming and expensive as each follicle is treated individually.
  • Laser Hair Removal: A popular method that uses laser light to target and destroy hair follicles, offering a more permanent reduction in hair growth.

How Lasers Remove Facial Hair

Laser hair removal works by emitting a concentrated beam of light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. This light energy is converted to heat, which damages the hair follicles, inhibiting or delaying future hair growth. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:

1. Preparation

The area to be treated is cleaned, and a cooling gel may be applied to protect the skin and enhance the effectiveness of the laser.

2. Laser Application

A handheld laser device is moved over the skin, emitting pulses of light. The melanin in the hair absorbs the light, leading to the destruction of the hair follicle.

3. Post-Treatment

Cooling measures may be applied to soothe the treated area and reduce any discomfort.

Is Facial Hair Removal Permanent?

Laser hair removal provides long-term hair reduction, but it is not always permanent. While many people experience significant and lasting hair reduction, some hair may eventually regrow. This regrowth is usually lighter, finer, and less noticeable. The extent of permanence can vary based on several factors:

  • Hair and Skin Type: Individuals with dark hair and light skin tend to see the best results because the laser targets the melanin in the hair.
  • Hormonal Influences: Conditions like PCOS can lead to new hair growth even after successful laser treatments.
  • Number of Treatments: Multiple sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results.

How Many Sessions of Facial Hair Removal Do I Need?

The number of facial hair removal sessions needed varies from person to person. Typically, 6 to 8 sessions are recommended for optimal results. These sessions are usually spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart to align with the hair growth cycle. Factors influencing the number of sessions include:

  • Hair Growth Cycle: Hair grows in cycles, and laser treatment is most effective during the anagen (active growth) phase.
  • Hair Colour and Thickness: Darker and coarser hair responds better to laser treatment.
  • Area Being Treated: Different areas of the face may require different numbers of sessions.

What is the Best Laser for Facial Hair Removal?

The best laser for facial hair removal in Manchester depends on your skin type, hair type, and personal preferences. There may be IPL devices but these are not the same as lasers and not as effective. Here are some commonly used lasers:

Diode Laser

The area to be treated is cleaned, and a cooling gel may be applied to protect the skin and enhance the effectiveness of the laser.

Alexandrite Laser

Known for its speed and efficiency, it works best on light to olive skin tones.

Nd:YAG Laser

Suitable for all skin types, including darker skin tones, due to its longer wavelength.

Ruby Laser

One of the oldest types of lasers, it is most effective on light skin with fine hair but is less commonly used today due to advancements in laser technology.

At CLNQ in Manchester, we offer the Cynosure Elite IQ laser which is one of the most effective lasers for facial hair removal. Cynosure Elite iQ is a dual-wavelength laser system, combining the Alexandrite 755 nm laser and the Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser. This combination allows the Elite iQ to treat a wide range of skin types and hair colours.

Conclusion

Facial hair in women can result from various factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetics, and medical conditions. Multiple hair removal methods are available, with laser hair removal being a popular choice due to its long-term results. Understanding the process, effectiveness, and suitable laser types is essential for achieving the best outcome. Book your free consultation with our trained therapist at CLNQ today to find out more about how our Cheshire & Manchester facial hair removal can help with hirsutism.

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