Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Laser hair removal treatment varies from case to case. There is no one formula for all. Several wavelengths of laser energy have been used for hair removal, from visible light to near-infrared radiation. These lasers are usually defined by the lasing medium used to create the wavelength.

Skin color is a determining factor in laser hair removal treatment. It has been observed in some published studies that longer pulsewidths are safer in darker skin, including those with tanned skin. It is also widely accepted that longer wavelengths are safer in darker skin.

Epidermal cooling has been determined to allow higher fluences (energy level) and reduce pain and side effects, especially in darker skin. Four types of cooling have been developed:

• Clear gel: usually chilled
• Contact cooling: through a window cooled by circulating water
• Cryogen spray: immediately before/after the laser pulse
• Air cooling: forced cold air at -34 degrees C (Zimmer Cryo 5 unit)

For darker skin patients with black hair, the long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser with a cooling tip can be safe and effective when used by an experienced practitioner.

Hair color is another critical factor in determining laser hair removal treatment. Melanin s considered the primary chromophore (dark target matter) for all hair removal lasers currently on the market. Melanin occurs naturally in the skin, giving skin and hair its color. There are two types of melanin in hair: eumelanin (which gives hair brown or black color) and pheomelanin (which gives hair blonde or red color). Because of the selective absorption of photons of laser light, only black or brown hair can be removed.

Multiple lazor hair removal treatments have been shown in numerous studies to be more effective for long-term hair reduction. Current parameters suggest a series of treatments spaced at 1 month for the face, 2 months for the chest and 3 months for the legs.

Can laser hair removal treatment help ingrown hair? It has been found to be quite effective in the hands of a qualified practitioner. Skin infections caused by the ingrown hairs are even minimized with the removal of the hair.

Laser hair removal is useful for reducing large areas of hair growth but is it suitable for all parts of the body? Is laser facial hair removal a safe method for removing facial hair permanently? Read on to find out.