Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal works by gradually heating the dermis to a temperature that effectively damages the hair follicles and prevents re-growth, while avoiding injury to the surrounding tissue.

During laser hair removal, a laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which damages the tube-shaped sacs within the skin (hair follicles) that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or delays future hair growth.

Multiple laser hair removal treatments are needed for initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments might be needed as well.

Hair color and skin type influence the success of laser hair removal. The basic principle is that the pigment of the hair, but not the pigment of the skin, should absorb the light. The laser should damage only the hair follicle while avoiding damage to the skin. Therefore, a contrast between hair and skin color — dark hair and light skin — results in the best outcomes.

Laser hair removal is less effective for hair colors that don't absorb light well: gray, red, blond and white.

6 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart (dependent on the area) are suggest for initial treatment.