Laser Hair Removal

In recent years there have beeen developments that involve the use of laser for the removal of unwanted hair.It is important to note that at this present time these treatments cannot be claimed as having permanent effect.However it has been claimed that a high percentage of hair is cleared for up to a year as long as repeated treatments are taken at regular intervals.

The advantage over needle epilation is the elimination of the needle; this treatment creates little discomfort to the client. The disadvantages include the risk of changes in the pigmentation of the skin,which seems to occur at times and the fact that lighter coloured hair is not treated as successfully. In addition to this Laser treatments are more expensive then needle epilation. At present only medically qualified personnel are able to use lasers and the equipmen is expensive to install. Lasers are used for a multitude of tasks in varying forms, a laser light consists of one wavelength or colour easily obsorbed creates heat;this is ideal for stopping hair growth.

One technique flashes the laser beam onto the skin where it is absorbed by the hair cells that contain the colour(pigment).An alternative method involves waxing of the area first before the laser is applied to the skin and pores. Safe use of the laser is essential for the safety of the client and the operator. Protective eyewear is worn by all present as blindness may be caused. Evidence shows that laser can have a tremendous effect on reducing hair growth, however, evidence also shows skin damage, pigmentation and poor results.

It is generally felt that lasers are a breakthrough for the treatment of unwanted hair. Due to the restraints affecting the use and the costs involved, it will be a long time before they are found in every salon and remember they are not classed as permanent yet!

When enquiring about laser treatments ask to see examples of case histories, the clinic should be happy to display their successes and fill you with confidence. It is important to discuss the cost, frequency, duration of treatments and predicted results as with any other treatment.

If the laser is not classed as permanent yet, what would be the point of changing from epilation?

Laser offers an alternative to needle epilation should the client have an aversion to needles. Laser is able to clear larger areas in one treatment therefore the visits to the clinic are less frequent then needle epilation. However, as already mentioned, it is important to collate all the evidence of the treatment success at the salon/clinic as Laser is quite a new treatment for hair removal.

Why is Laser not successful on lighter coloured hair?

The treatment works by the light being absorbed in the pigment of the hair. In lighter coloured hair the pigment has less depth therefore a higher percentage of light is reflected. It is essential for as much of the light as possible to be absorbed to enable the growing cells of the hair to be destroyed.

Source:BABTAC