Basics
Laser hair removal is a permanent solution to getting rid of unwanted hair. The iEnhance website reports that a laser sends energy to the hair shaft's pigments and basically burns the errant hairs. The laser pulses are absorbed by the surrounding hair follicles. The heating process destroys the follicles, leading to the end of hair production in that area. Large areas of hair can be destroyed with each laser treatment, unlike electrolysis that targets one follicle at a time. A dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon trained in the use of lasers usually performs the treatments.
Time
While laser hair removal typically requires fewer sessions to completely remove hair from an area, it still takes a number of treatments to complete a section. Hair must be in the final phase of growth, or anagen, to be susceptible to the laser. When hair is in the transition or resting phase, it cannot be removed with lasers. Each laser pulse lasts for a couple seconds and can treat an area about one square inch. Small areas such as the upper lip can be treated in as little as five minutes, while larger areas like the back can take up to an hour.
Treatment
Laser hair removal technicians initially test the laser on a small area to make sure the hair will respond to laser treatments. The area to be treated then is shaved and a minor anesthetic applied to minimize any discomfort. The intense light created by the laser causes a minor warming sensation in the skin. Many lasers are equipped with cooling fans to reduce the burning sensations even more. Several sessions spaced out about a month apart typically are required for complete hair removal.
Effects
Since the laser targets the color in hair pigment, hair must be darker than the skin to be effective. Results also can vary from person to person. Metabolism, hormone levels and number of hair follicles affect results. People with dark skin often must use skin-bleaching agents to separate it from the pigment in the hair. Doctors at the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery report that gray and white hair often is less responsive to laser treatments. Immediately following the procedure, the skin is red and swollen. At times, the skin may become crusty and blister, but this is a temporary condition that can be treated with mild cream provided by the dermatologist. It often feels like a bad sunburn. Patients are advised to avoid sun exposure while the area heals. Hair will continue to grow out of the skin until it falls out.
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