Hair removal accomplished by laser is really not as new as what some individuals believe. Many think it was a sudden discovery but in fact, experiments concerning its ability for hair removal were being done for over 20 years.
If one wants to become technical about the word laser then laser hair removal is not really a laser. It is what is called an intense pulsed light. Laser first received its first recognition as a hair removal system in 1998. Now it has become widely accepted as a good way for what is classed as permanent hair removal although certainly not a cheap method. It’s the cost that actually prevents people from having it done. There are a few that are nervous about it being laser but the myth that it is dangerous is slowly being swept away.
Basically how the laser hair removal works is the laser creates damage to dark target areas by creating heat. It is localized so surrounding damage is not created. The dark matter that we are referring to is the hair growth, which is the hair follicle. The darkness of the follicle is caused by melanin. The laser will only center on the follicle not the rest of the skin. It is an effective method because dark objects automatically absorb light. That’s why you are often advised not to wear dark clothing in hot weather.
Most everyone knows that melanin is what gives hair its color. What many people find interesting to learn is that there are actually two types of melanin. There is one type that gives the hair its black or brown color and a second type that gives the red and blonde colors. Being as the laser light only works effectively on dark colors the treatment is not successful for light haired individuals. The best combination for full success is light skin with dark hair. The hair ideally should be coarse as well.
Laser hair removal is versatile in the areas of the body where it can be done. This is because the laser is only centered on one area at time. It can be used on the chin, lips or legs as well as most any other area where there is unwanted hair.
In 1997, the FDA gave its seal of approval as being classified as a permanent hair reduction. For the most part, with the proper hair conditions, it is a very successful treatment but this partly depends on the expertise of the laser technician. There are also variations in the different technology as well now too.
Ideally before making the final decision to have your laser hair removal done at a specific clinic you may want to shop around a bit and compare prices as well as methods.
