The eternal search for youth and beauty has yielded a plethora of techniques for the removal of unwanted hair. Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular – in fact, Forbes.com recently reported that laser hair removal was the third most popular cosmetic procedure amongst men. Although the technology has been available for some years, information on the procedure is sometimes difficult to find at best and confusing at worst. However, as its popularity grows, more information on this form of hair removal is becoming available.

Laser hair removal uses laser technology to inhibit the growth cycle of the hair by delivering short bursts of high intensity light directly into the follicle. The laser is only attracted to the melanin (hair colour) so only the hair itself is damaged. The surrounding skin tissue remains unharmed by the procedure, as long as the procedure is carried out properly. Herein lies the first dilemma. Laser hair removal is a clinical procedure and should be carried out by a fully qualified, professional practitioner. In the UK, the laser industry is only partially regulated so a full consultation is essential before any treatment begins, as not everyone is suitable for laser treatment.

Laser hair removal is ideal for use in all areas of the body including the face, bikini line and under arms. But if you are thinking about having excess hair removed from between the eyebrows, for example, emphasis has to be placed again on the professionalism and experience of the practitioner, as lasers can cause permanent and debilitating damage to the eye. Be absolutely certain that the practitioner has the relevant experience to carry out the procedure safely.

Laser hair removal is considered to be the longest-lasting and often permanent method of hair removal. The process is usually performed over a series of sessions (at least five to eight treatments) spaced six weeks apart. This scheduling coincides with the growth cycle of the hair, as laser energy only affects actively-growing hair. The number of treatments required will vary depending on the part of the body being treated and frequency is adjusted as the treatment progresses. For approximately two to three weeks after laser hair removal the hair will look as if it is continuing to grow. This is actually the treated hair falling out as the laser has effectively damaged the root to prevent it growing further. This stage is often referred to as ‘shedding' and after a couple of weeks the body areas should be hair free. Once the hair begins to appear again, the next treatment is due. After a series of several treatments, the hair follicle will no longer be operative and the hair removal process will be permanent.

A potential stumbling block for people wanting to opt for laser hair removal is the cost. It is an expensive treatment, with sessions costing up to several hundreds of pounds depending on the area of the body being treated. However, it is essentially a permanent solution and when weighed against the cost of a lifetime of waxing, plucking or using hair removal creams, the cost will probably be no more than non-permanent solutions. Many clinics offer packages that will spread the cost of laser hair removal and even prices that will combine treatments for several areas of the body. Laser hair removal is becoming more available and its popularity looks set to increase in the future.