Laser Hair Removal Techniques

Laser Hair Removal Techniques

What is Laser?

Laser is an acronym of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. It was discovered by Theodore Maiman in 1960. It is different from other sources of light because it is monochromatic and coherent. Nowadays laser has been used as the hair removal technique and is considered the most effective way for hair reduction. Laser is not the permanent hair removal technique. It just reduces hair growth.

How does laser hair removal work?

In this technique, the skin is exposed to the pulses of laser that destroy the hair follicle. Laser only targets the dark pigment in the skin that is melanin so its effectiveness increases with the darker color of hair. Hair with light colors like lite brown, grey, and very fine hairs are also not affected by the laser. The ideal combination for laser to act is dark hair and light skin.

Types of Laser

The five most common techniques of laser hair removal are:

Ruby:

This technique was first developed for the reduction of hair. It uses a shorter wavelength targeting the melanin hence taking much time between two shots making it slow as compared to other types. This type is more effective for thin hair and is not suitable for dark skin. Ruby laser is good for light to pale skin.

Alexandrite:

One of the fastest laser techniques is the alexandrite laser. It covers a large area like the back and takes less time. It can be uncomfortable because it is a bit painful.

Diode hair removal lasers:

Semiconductors are used known as diodes in this technique. It uses longer wavelengths with better penetration into the hair follicle. It targets the thick and dark hairs making it popular in men. Men use this for extra hairs on their back, chest, and cheeks.

Nd: YAG:

This laser technique is highly recommended for dark skin tones. It has a longer wavelength as compared to the other techniques making it more penetrating and effective.

Comparison with IPL(intense pulsed light)

IPL is not a laser. It uses Xenon flash lamps to emit full-spectrum light. Its wavelength varies from 400nm to 1200nm but the use of a longer red wavelength makes it more effective. It is useful for larger diameters because it generates a pulse up to 250ms. It has become more popular as compared to lasers.

Comparison with electrolysis

Electrolysis is an old method of hair removal. It is indeed a permanent method to remove hairs and is effective for all types of hair but it’s not popular because it’s very slow and tiring. People who have hormones issues can have more hair than before.

Sessions  Required

People with normal hair growth can have a reduction of hair in 3-8 sessions but it totally depends on the amount of hair growth which varies from person to person. Some people get rid of hair soon but some take time.

Side Effects:

There are no worse side effects of lasers. you may have some redness, itchiness, and bruises.  In the markets, numbing creams are available to avoid pain

Precautions

• After laser,  you will not take shower or use water for 3 hours.
• Do not stand in front of the heat.
• Do not use deodorant or any fragrance before and after the laser session.
• Consult doctors in case of severe itchiness.

 

 

 

 

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