Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses a focused beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair.
During laser hair removal, a laser emits light which is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hairs. Light energy is converted into heat, which damages the tube-shaped sacs in the skin (hair follicles) that produce hairs. This damage inhibits or retards future hair growth.
Although laser hair removal effectively retards hair growth for long periods of time, it usually does not result in permanent hair removal. Several laser hair removal sessions are required for the initial hair removal, and maintenance treatments may also be required. Laser hair removal is most effective for people with fair skin and dark hair, but it can be used successfully on all skin types.
Laser hair removal is used to reduce unwanted hair. Common treatment locations include the legs, armpits, upper lip, chin, and bikini line. However, it is possible to treat unwanted hair in almost any area except the eyelid or the surrounding area. However, tattooed skin should not be treated.
Hair color and skin type influence the success of laser hair removal. The basic principle is that the pigment in the hair, but not the pigment in the skin, should absorb light. The laser should only damage the hair follicle while avoiding damage to the skin. Therefore, contrasting body hair and skin color (dark hair and light skin) gives the best results.