Laser Hair Reduction

How does laser hair reduction work?

There is one major principle on which laser hair reduction works; it is that dark objects are more receptive to light exposure. As the laser beam passes over the dark hair follicles, the laser energy is absorbed, which generates heat. This heat then damages the follicle, ceasing any further hair growth. It follows a selective photothermolysis, which means that it only affects the hair follicle and not the skin surrounding it. As the light is more effective on dark objects, individuals with blonde, red or gray hair may have difficulty achieving success with some forms of laser hair removal.

Laser Types

There are many types of lasers available in the market. Most of the lasers used are designed to target the melanin or dark pigment in the hair follicle. This process results in the damaging of the hair follicle. Some major laser types include IPL lasers, Diode lasers and Ruby lasers.

Intense Pulsed Light

The IPL device uses intense light beams in the form of xenon flash lamps. It is basically a non-coherent light that generates multi-wavelengths, causing hair reduction. In this particular laser treatment light intensity can be altered using filters. Laser hair clinics have seen an upswing in the use of IPL devices owing to the different settings available that support various hair and colour types. It is also believed that IPL is best suited to darker hair or skin.

Ruby Lasers

Ruby laser was one of the first lasers in the hair removal market to be used. Characteristically it is a deep red light that emits from the laser and is primarily aimed at the hair follicles that contain melanin pigment. This is an excellent choice for fine and light coloured hair. Although this may not be the treatment recommended to people with dark skin as the laser beam is thoroughly absorbed by the melanin pigment present and may result in blisters. Only a few professional dermatologists may use the Ruby lasers – they are not common features at most hair removal clinics.