Laser hair removal had been experimentally performed for about 20 years before becoming available commercially in the mid seventies. Today, laser hair removal for men is widely practiced. Laser epilation is the only method of hair removal that is deemed permanent by the FDA.
The Mechanics of Laser Hair Removal
Selective photothermolysis is the primary principle used in laser hair removal. Simply put, selective photothermolysis is the process by where a specific wavelength of light, or laser, is precisely targeted into dark target matter, or melanin. The energy, or light, will produce sufficient heat to damage the melanin in the target area while leaving the surrounding area untouched. In this case, the laser is targeted on the melanin in the follicle or root of each individual hair, killing the cell.
Melanin is what gives color to skin and hair. Since lasers target melanin, only black or brown hair can be removed with lasers. Laser hair removal can lighten the skin of darker skinned individuals, since melanin is what makes the skin darker. Lasers work best on light skinned individuals with dark, coarse hair.
Who Seeks Epilation by Laser?
Both women and men seek to have unwanted hair removed. Laser hair removal for men is commonly in the areas of the back and the chest, hands and toes. Women more often seek to have hair removed from the: face, underarms, bikini lines, cleavage, arms, legs and hands.
The number of treatments needed varies based on a number of different parameters. On average five to seven treatments are required but some cases could require up to 12 or 13 treatments to achieve the desired results. For example, laser back hair removal on light skinned individuals with coarse dark hair might only require seven treatments while a dark skinned individual or an individual with lighter or more fine hair may require twice as many treatments. Treatments are usually spaced 3 to 12 weeks apart.
Side Effects
Many individuals who have laser epilation experience no side effects at all. However, the side effects that can be associated with laser hair removal for men and women include:
• Redness and swelling
• Pain, tingling or numbness
• Burning of skin
• Acne flare ups
• Scabbing
• Skin discoloration
• Infection
Side effects should be mild and last no more than a few day. If more than mild discomfort or side effects are evident it is important to see the doctor immediately
Related posts: