How Laser Hair Removal Works

Laser Hair Removal is a process of using light energy to remove unwanted body hair. When the light is excite by a pulsed laser, it breaks down the protein that comprises the hair follicle. There are four types of laser treatments available. These are:

The initial procedure in the removal of hair was introduced in 1991. The lasers used then were rather strong and caused temporary side effects. They also had less success in permanently removing the hair. Today the technology has been developed to the point that current treatments can be quite successful in hair removal. While they do not work on all hairs, many patients have had great success with the treatments. It is important to note that the treatment will not work for everyone.

Pulsed Light Energy Therapy (PLET) works by using a small handheld device that sends pulses of laser light into the target area. The light energy travels from the device onto the target area and then destroys the hair follicle. In a very short period of time after the hair follicle is destroyed, the hair falls out and does not grow back. This type of treatment is done on an area of the body that has thinning or balding areas. Many times this is the upper lip or eyelid area.

A much stronger pulsed laser is able to penetrate the hair follicle deeper than PLET. The end result is similar to PLET, but without as many side effects. The hair growth is actually discouraged and the hair will not grow back for up to six months. For some patients, this process is enough to help reduce unsightly hair and restore a more youthful appearance to that area of the body.

The latest development in hair removal technology is the Wavefront system. This is done by using a handheld device that measures the amount of energy that is emitted as the laser passes over the skin. Once this information is measured, the machine is able to precisely control the wavefront, which helps to direct the laser energy at the skin rather than the hair follicle. This treatment takes a shorter time than that of the other treatments.

In order to find the best provider, it is important to check their professional credentials. These professionals should have been trained and certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and should have certification by the American Board of Dermatology. They should also have extensive experience in the laser hair removal field and be board certified in this specialty. When choosing a provider, it is important to choose one that uses a high quality laser. While cost may be a factor, the more quality the laser the better the results.