What is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal uses a focused laser beam to target and remove unwanted hair by destroying the hair follicle. Depending on factors like your skin type and hair color, different laser types may be used, but we'll get to those specifics later.

A Brief History of Laser Hair Removal

The evolution of laser hair removal has gone through five significant phases:

• 1960s: The first lasers (wave 1) were developed but proved too damaging to the skin due to the continuous wave of light they emitted.
• 1970s: Wave 2 lasers allowed for individual hair follicle targeting, but they were not user-friendly and were eventually pulled from the market by the FDA.
• 1980s: Wave 3 lasers offered better targeting but remained ineffective and tedious.
• 1990s: Wave 4 lasers, cleared by the FDA, used carbon-based lotion to target hair follicles, but could still harm surrounding tissues.
• 1997: Wave 5 lasers, the standard today, target melanin in hair, improving safety and effectiveness with built-in cooling systems.

Understanding Hair Growth for Laser Hair Removal

Each hair has a shaft (the visible part) and a root (below the skin). Hair production occurs in three stages:

1. Anagen (Growth Stage): The active phase when the hair is growing.
2. Catagen (Cessation Stage): The transitional phase when growth stops.
3. Telogen (Resting Stage): The dormant phase before the hair falls out.

Not all hairs are in the same growth stage simultaneously, which is why multiple laser treatments are necessary to target all follicles at the right time.

How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal relies on Selective Photothermolysis (SPTL), a process where a specific wavelength of light targets hair follicles while sparing the surrounding skin. The laser is absorbed by melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color, heating and damaging the follicle to inhibit future growth.

Ideal Skin Types for Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal results vary depending on your skin type, often categorized using the Fitzpatrick Scale:

• Type I: Very fair skin, burns easily, never tans (e.g., redheads with freckles).
• Type II: Fair skin, burns easily, tans minimally.
• Type III: Lightly tanned skin, burns occasionally, tans slowly.
• Type IV: Olive skin, tans easily, rarely burns.
• Type V: Darker skin, tans easily, burns rarely.
• Type VI: Deeply pigmented skin, never burns.

Lighter skin typically requires fewer treatments, while darker skin tones may need more sessions due to the challenges of targeting melanin.

Ideal Hair Types for Laser Hair Removal

The color and thickness of your hair also affect how well laser hair removal works:

• Dark Hair (Best Results): Dark hair absorbs more light, making it the easiest to treat.
• Medium Hair: Treatable but often requires more sessions.
• Light Hair (Hardest to Treat): Blonde, red, or grey hair contains less melanin, making it harder to target with lasers.

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

Most people need between 4 to 12 sessions to see significant hair reduction. Laser hair removal works best during the anagen phase (active growth), and since not all hair is in this phase at the same time, multiple treatments are necessary to cover all follicles.

Treatment Areas

Laser hair removal is suitable for almost any area of the body, including the face and larger body areas. The most popular areas for treatment include:

• For Women: Upper lip, underarms, bikini line, stomach, legs.
• For Men: Sideburns, back, stomach, arms, buttocks.

Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Laser hair removal is often described as permanent hair reduction. While it significantly reduces hair growth, some people may experience some regrowth, though the hair will be finer and less noticeable. Most clients see a 75% to 95% reduction in hair growth.

Pre-Treatment Guidelines

Before your laser hair removal session, there are several things you need to do to ensure the best results:

• Consult a Dermatologist: It’s essential to have a consultation to assess whether you’re a good candidate for laser hair removal.
• Patch Test: Get a patch test to determine the appropriate laser setting for your skin and hair type.
• Avoid Tanning: Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds, and fake tan products at least 4-6 weeks before treatment.
• No Waxing or Plucking: Do not wax, tweeze, or pluck hair before treatment—only shaving is allowed.
• Prepare the Skin: Cleanse the area from any lotions or creams before your session.

Post-Treatment Care

After your laser hair removal session, follow these aftercare tips for optimal results:

• Redness & Bumps: You may experience mild redness or bumps, which typically subside in a few hours.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Always use sunscreen (SPF 25 or higher) to protect treated areas.
• Gentle Washing: Use mild soap, avoid scrubbing, and pat dry instead of rubbing the skin.
• Hair Shedding: Shedding may occur 5-30 days after the treatment—this is normal and not regrowth.

Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

Most clients describe the sensation as a light snapping of an elastic band on the skin. Modern lasers are equipped with cooling systems to minimize discomfort, and numbing creams can be applied if needed.

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

• Long-Lasting Results: Unlike shaving or waxing, laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction.
• Cost-Effective: Over time, it saves money compared to the ongoing costs of razors, waxing, and creams.
• Prevents Ingrown Hairs: By targeting the hair follicle directly, laser hair removal prevents the formation of ingrown hairs.

Potential Side Effects

Laser hair removal is generally safe, but some temporary side effects may occur, including redness, swelling, or itching. Rarely, more serious side effects like blistering or hyperpigmentation can occur, especially in those with darker skin.

Is Your Diet Important?

A high intake of Beta Carotene, found in foods like carrots, can deposit pigments in the skin, potentially interfering with the laser’s ability to reach hair follicles. It’s recommended to limit Beta Carotene-rich foods before starting treatment.

Laser hair removal is a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution for reducing unwanted hair. Whether you're tired of shaving or dealing with painful waxing, laser treatments can help you achieve smoother skin with fewer treatments over time. Make sure to consult with a qualified clinician to determine the best course of action for your specific skin and hair type.