HOW LASER HAIR REMOVAL WORKS
The laser hair removal process, known as selective photothermolysis, matches the specific wavelength of light that heats tissue in the follicle and destroys it with a laser What Is selective photothermolysis? Selective photothermolysis is the foundational principle behind laser hair removal. The term photothermolysis is derived from three components: photo , meaning light; thermos , meaning heat; and lysis , meaning destruction. By carefully selecting the appropriate wavelength of light, the Targeting melanin in hair follicles Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of hair and skin. In laser hair removal, laser light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft and hair follicle. Different types of lasers are used depending on the patient’s skin type and hair color. Different types of lasers emit light at specific wavelengths that are optimal for various skin and hair types.
without affecting or damaging surrounding tissue (Kita, 2023).
laser targets the melanin in the hair without affecting the surrounding skin tissue. This selective approach minimizes the risk of skin damage and enhances the effectiveness of the treatment (Kita, 2023 ).
When melanin absorbs laser light, it converts the light energy into heat. This heat then travels down the hair shaft into the hair follicle, raising the temperature of the follicle to a level that causes thermal damage. This damage disrupts the follicle’s ability to regenerate hair, leading to a reduction in hair growth over time (My Laser, n.d.).
TYPES OF LASERS USED FOR HAIR REMOVAL
Laser, which stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation, was first developed for medical and scientific purposes but found a place in dermatology, including hair removal (NASA, 2021). Laser hair removal promises longer-lasting results and targeted treatment 1. Intense pulse light (IPL) devices IPL devices use intense pulsed light, which is absorbed by the pigment in hair, converting light energy to heat and destroying hair follicles through thermophotolysis, a process in which light is absorbed into the hair pigment and travels to hair follicles, where it converts to heat and burns the hair follicles. While less intense than lasers, IPL requires more sessions to achieve the desired results. However, its at-home usability makes frequent sessions manageable, leading to hairless results within 1–2 months with 2–3 sessions per week. 2. Ruby hair removal laser Ruby laser machines, the pioneers in laser hair removal, work by targeting melanin in hair and skin, making them effective for dark hair but unsuitable for dark skin tones. The built-in cooling system and pulse pause feature minimize pain and skin damage but extend treatment duration. Despite their efficacy, Ruby lasers are now less common due to the emergence of more advanced technologies. Pros ● Integrated cooling system. ● Effective for fine hair. ● Less painful. ● Long-lasting results. 3. Alexandrite Laser The Alexandrite laser is favored for its fast treatment times and effectiveness on various hair types, including individuals with freckles and albino individuals. Pain management and aftercare are crucial due to the treatment’s intensity. Sessions may extend over a year, with monthly treatments required.
areas, reducing hair growth significantly after only a few sessions. Various types of lasers are used for hair removal, each offering unique benefits suited for different skin and hair types. Here are five types of lasers designed for hair removal (Ulike, 2023).
Pros ● Minimal damage to surrounding areas. ● Privacy of at-home treatments. ● Cost-effective. ● Quick and efficient. ● Adjustable intensity and modes. Cons ● Not suitable for all skin tones and types. ● Ineffective on hair with no pigment. Suitable skin types ● Fair to medium skin tones (excluding medium brown to dark brown and black skin). Compatible hair colors ● All pigmented hair colors except gray, white, red, or blonde. Cons ● Inefficient for large areas. ● Longer treatment sessions. ● Risk of pigmentation and swelling in dark skin tones.
Suitable skin types ● Fair skin tones.
Compatible hair colors ● Black and brown hair.
Pros ● Fast treatment due to quick repetitions and large spot size. ● Deep penetration into the hair. ● Effective for both thick and thin hair. ● Suitable for a range of skin tones from white to olive.
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