Laser Hair Removal
Unwanted hair can cause a huge problem for both men and women, many of which seek to remove their hair in a safe and convenient way. A number of methods have been developed to help rid you of this unwanted hair, including waxing, shaving, depilatories, sugaring, threading, and electrolysis.
The problem with most of these treatments? They are not permanent!
Laser hair removal is a relatively new treatment option, popular due to the fact that it is one hair removal treatment that is permanent.
Laser hair removal treatments are commonly available in many beauty salons across the country. These treatments are generally more expensive than those mentioned above. Over time, however, the cost will be far lower due to the fact that the hair will stop growing back for good, reducing the need for hair removal products.
What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal works to remove hair permanently from areas of your body by using a light at a designated wavelength, projected onto the skin via a laser. This laser, when directed onto the correct area of skin, will focus on the pigment of the hair follicle – destroying the hair but not damaging the area around it.
Over a course of treatments, all the follicles in one area of the body will eventually be targeted, stopping hair from growing back permanently.
How Does It Work?
The way the laser works is all based on light. Light is absorbed better into dark objects, and when it is absorbed into the hair follicle it can kill it at the root, stopping it from growing back.
The material targeted by the laser beam is known as melanin – the substance that gives your hair its colour. One type of melanin is found in black or brown hair, and another type in blonde or red hair.
Who Can Benefit From Laser Hair Removal?
In general there are two factors that influence the type of laser hair removal that will work for you:
- Your Skin Colour: If your skin is light then laser hair removal will be easier to perform. Patients will see faster results and fewer treatments before hair permanently stops growing. If you have dark skin then laser hair removal will be possible, but more treatments are likely to be needed.
- Your Hair Colour: Dark hair is a lot more suitable for laser hair removal, as blonde or red hair contains a pigment known as pheomelanin which is very difficult for a laser to penetrate.
However, treatments will vary from case to case. It's important to book a consultation with a specialist who can tell you how successful your treatment is likely to be and how many times you may need to be treated.
Those who have dark hair and light skin are in a better position for laser hair removal. However, new techniques have been developed meaning that just about anyone can be treated.