For almost 20 years, laser epilation went through various experiments, tests, and development before it actually found its way into the commercial market and over time into public acceptance. Laser hair removal in its basic form is a light based method that removes hair. In the world of dermatology, the efficacy of laser hair removal is widely established and one can see a whole lot of laser hair removal salons and centres offering this treatment option for body hair removal.
How does it work?
Every process has a foundation or basic principle around which it functions. Selective photothermolysis (SPTL) is the primary principle that forms the basis for laser hair removal. What laser treatment is actually doing is that it is selectively heating melanin, in a targeted area, which is responsible for the growth of the hair follicle. The rest of the skin is not heated. Dark objects have light absorption properties, thus laser energy is absorbed by the dark pigment – melanin. However, the speed and intensity of this absorption process is much more than normal. The beam travels through the hair shaft destroying it in the process.
The selective approach of the process of laser hair removal means that it can work best only on dark hair, that is, either black or brown coloured hair.
Its sessions and side effects
The process of laser hair removal is conducted in sessions. The hair and skin colour, the amount of hair, and the sex of a person determine the number of sessions required for long-term reduction of hair. Typically, a series of multiple treatments is required; usually 5-7, but the number could go up to 12. Continue reading ‘Laser Hair Removal – Its Working and Precautions’ »