Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to remove unwanted hair. The process involves directing a laser at hair follicles, where the light is absorbed by the pigment. This absorption of light generates heat, which subsequently damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth. Here is more information about laser hair removal:
Removes Unwanted Hair
Laser technology provides a method for removing hair from various parts of the body. You might have hair on your face, legs, or underarms that you wish to manage, and this procedure is an option for those areas. A series of treatments is typically part of the plan because the laser is most effective when hair is in its active growth phase.
Destroys Hair Follicles
The procedure works by emitting a highly concentrated light that is absorbed by the melanin in the hair. This light energy converts to heat, which damages the hair follicle. When the follicle is damaged, its ability to grow is impeded, so this process targets the hair at its source. The goal of multiple sessions is to damage the follicles to the point where they no longer grow hair.
The method’s effectiveness depends on the contrast between hair and skin color, and it varies accordingly. The laser needs to distinguish the dark pigment in the hair from the surrounding skin. Lighter hair, like gray, red, or blond, absorbs less light, making the procedure less effective for individuals with these hair colors.
The laser hair removal process is typically cyclical. Hair grows in different stages, and the laser is only effective during the anagen, or active growth, stage. For this reason, multiple sessions are scheduled several weeks apart to target follicles as they enter this phase.
Targets Large Areas
One aspect of this method is its capacity to treat large areas of the body efficiently. The device emits a beam that covers a surface area of about a quarter each second, so it affects multiple hair follicles simultaneously. This functionality allows practitioners to address sections like the back or legs in a relatively short amount of time compared to methods that treat one hair at a time. The duration of a session varies, depending on the size of the area.
- Small areas like the upper lip might take only a few minutes.
- Larger areas, such as the back or legs, could require up to an hour.
The treatment extends beyond large zones. It is also precise enough to target smaller, more delicate areas. These include the bikini line, chin, and underarms.
Suits Most Skin Types
Advancements in laser technology expand the range of skin types that are treatable. Initial laser systems may be more effective on individuals with light skin and dark hair because the contrast may make it easier for the laser to target the hair follicle. Newer systems may be available that accommodate a broader spectrum of skin tones. The laser type depends on your skin color and hair type, and a practitioner can determine it during a consultation.
Schedule Laser Hair Removal
The procedure offers a method for reducing unwanted hair across different body areas. Multiple sessions are necessary to achieve results because hair grows in cycles and treatment is only effective on follicles in the active growth phase. If you are interested in learning more about how laser hair removal works for your specific hair and skin type, schedule a consultation with a dermatology clinic to discuss your options.
