Hair laser removal, also known as epilation was first performed two decades ago. However, this now popular procedure did not become available to the public until the mid-1990s. Other names for hair removal are called Photoepilation or Phototricholysis. In fact, hair can be removed through a number of methods such as the light-based epilator. However, this particular method, which uses IPL or Intense Pulsed Light, is not actually a laser procedure. In fact, some patients wanting to reduce or eliminate hair prefer this method but not all do.

For hair laser removal, a process known as selective photothermolysis is used. What happens is that the targeted area is affected while surround skin and tissue is left unharmed. The benefit of laser hair removal is that the process is quick and intense but without being painful. Although a person may feel a little discomfort depending on the exact method used, it is tolerable with exceptional results.

By using hair laser removal procedures three specific things are targeted. First is carbon, which is actually created by a carbon-based lotion being rubbed onto the skin. At that time, the carbon gets into the hair follicle. Once the laser is focused on that particular area, a shockwave is produced, damaging cells. However, you would rarely find this method used in that permanent loss is not generally achieved. Even so, some doctors may still offer carbon procedures.

The next option is melanin. With melanin occurring in the skin naturally, photons are absorbed, which removes the hair. Keep in mind that melanin for hair color is broken down into two categories. First is pheomelanin for red or blonde hair and eumelanin for black or brown hair. Unfortunately, while this procedure is very successful for people with dark hair, it does not work for those falling in the pheomelanin category, which would be red or blonde-haired people.

Finally, another natural occurrence in the body's blood is called hemoglobin, which is what makes blood the color red. For this, the Nd:YAG laser wavelength is absorbed minimally, which is why hemoglobin is not usually a good target for laser hair removal. To determine the appropriate direction to take, you would need to work closely with a licensed, skilled, and reputable doctor. After a consultation, he or she would be able to provide you with technique options that would work most effectively for you.

The one thing you need to know about hair laser removal is that while people think of this as a permanent hair removal process, it is not actually permanent. The reason is that regardless of the laser being used, it can only penetrate the skin to a certain depth. Therefore, there is no such thing as permanent hair laser removal without causing some level of scarring. In fact actual hair removal is generally between 5% and 10%. However, the amount of hair and growth rate of hair can be dramatically reduced. In fact, the law requires any hair laser removal clinic to use the word “reduction” instead of permanent. Even so, for people with excessive hair or those wanting a break from shaving, this technique is a safe and viable option if performed by a professional.