Laser Hair Removal

A specific wavelength of light is used for laser hair removal. The light is beamed upon the skin, where it targets dark color material. It generally damages the melanin in the hair and spares the surrounding tissues.

This complete process is known as selective photothermolysis.  The process targets only the hair and not the skin.  Photo means light and thermolysis means destroying with heat.

The right candidate for permanent laser hair removal should have dark hair and light skin. The process will not work on people having red, yellow, or blond hair. 

The process of laser hair removal has both pros and cons:

Pros:

	Lot of people have achieved permanent hair removal with laser
	Highly useful for areas such as backs or legs
	If re-growth occurs, it is generally lighter in color

Cons:

	Safety and effectiveness for long-term is still an issue
	No accurate data on re-growth rates
	Not very successful on unpigmented hair
	Improper use can lead to burns or discoloration

There are four types of laser light used for hair removal. Each type has some precise strengths and weaknesses depending on the skin color and hair color.

	Alexandrite: Most widely used laser for hair removal due to its high speed.
	Ruby: First laser hair removal method and was extensively used by the dermatologists. Not very popular now.
	Diode: Semiconductor diode has some explicit advantages when treating certain hair colors and skin types.
	LP ND Yag: Latest amongst all laser types but yet to gain popularity.

There are certain factors that a laser technician should keep in mind to make the treatment more safe and comfortable:

	A laser with long pulses is safer
	Time between pulses of light should be long enough
	Energy level should be selected according to the type of the skin
	A good choice of spot sizes helps to better reach the hair depth
	Surrounding skin should always be safeguarded by a gel or spray

Multiple laser treatments are essential for best results. Repeated treatments help in permanent decline in the amount of visible hair. It is recommended to undergo at least 3 treatments during a year for satisfactory and permanent results.

A good laser technician can get excellent results with all types of skin and hair. Always consult your local practitioner to find out which kind of laser will work best for you.

DISCLAIMER: Note that the contents here are not presented from a medical practitioner, and that any and all health care planning should be made under the guidance of your own medical and health practitioners. The content on this website only presents an overview based upon research for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice from a practicing physician. Under no circumstances, including, but not limited to, negligence, shall the owner of this website be liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the information presented here.