The energy of the laser, depending on the wavelength, is absorbed by specific “target” cells. For hair removal, the “target” is melanin, which is found in very high concentration in the hair follicle (root). The energy of the laser beam is therefore absorbed by the melanin located at the root of the hair, which it destroys, leaving the remaining tissues (skin, fat, blood vessels, nerves) practically intact. This phenomenon is called selective photothermolysis.

The hairs on the human body have a life cycle that varies from region to region. Laser root destruction is only possible at a specific stage of their life cycle, regeneration. In each session, therefore, only a percentage (around 15-20%) of the total hair of an area is destroyed, those that are in the regenerative phase. This is why a number of treatments are needed to achieve the desired result. The number of these treatments as well as the intervals between them vary depending on the areas of the body from 6 to 12.

Essentially only UV radiation should be taken care of (sun exposure or solarium) as it increases the melanin of the skin. Thus, with whiter skin, very little of the energy of the diode laser is absorbed by it as opposed to older technologies such as Alexandrite. This results for Alexandritis on the one hand the intense irritation of the skin and on the other the partial failure of the hair removal since the energy that will reach the root of the hair will not be sufficient. Instead the diode Laser reaches directly to the root of the hair follicle as it emits at 808nm.

Although laser hair removal effectively delays hair growth for long periods of time (years), it usually does not lead to permanent hair removal. Multiple laser hair removal treatments are required for initial hair removal and maintenance treatments may also be required. Laser hair removal is more effective for people with light skin and dark hair, but can be used successfully on all skin types.

Laser hair removal is used to reduce unwanted hair growth. The most popular anatomical areas are the legs, armpits, upper lip, chin and bikini line. However, it is possible to treat unwanted hair growth in almost any area except the eyelids and the surrounding area as it is dangerous for the eyesight. Tattooed skin should never be touched.

Hair color and skin type affect the success of laser hair removal. The basic principle is that the hair dye should absorb light, but not the skin dye. The laser should only damage the hair follicle, while avoiding the skin. Therefore, the contrast between hair color and skin – dark hair and light skin – has the best results.

The risk of skin damage is higher when there is little contrast between the hair and the color of the skin, but advances in laser technology have made laser hair removal an option even for people with darker skin. Laser hair removal is less effective for hair colors that do not absorb light well: gray, red, blonde and white. However, laser treatment options for light hair continue to grow.

Risks of side effects vary depending on skin type, hair color, treatment plan and pre- and post-treatment care. The most common side effects of laser hair removal include:

• Skin irritation. Temporary discomfort, redness and swelling may occur after laser hair removal. Any signs and symptoms usually disappear within a few hours

• Changes in skin color. Laser hair removal can darken or discolor affected skin. These changes can be temporary or permanent. Discoloration of the skin mainly affects those who do not avoid sun exposure before or after treatment and those who have darker skin.

  Rarely, laser hair removal can cause burns that are expressed by blisters, scabs, scars or other changes in skin texture. Other rare side effects include graying of the treated hair or excessive hair growth around the treated area, especially on darker skin.

  Laser hair removal is not recommended for the eyelids, eyebrows or surrounding areas, due to the possibility of serious eye injury.

The doctor will also suggest specific instructions for preparing the application. These may include:

• Stay away from the sun. Follow your doctor’s advice to avoid sun exposure before and after treatment. Whenever you go out, apply SPF30 sunscreen. Avoid other hair removal methods.
• Waxing and electrolysis can disrupt the hair follicle and should be avoided for at least four weeks before treatment.
• Ask your doctor about medications, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, to avoid before the procedure.
• Shaving or Trimming. Trimming and shaving is recommended the day before laser treatment. Removes hairs above the skin that can lead to superficial skin damage from burnt hairs, but leaves the body of hair intact beneath the surface..

Laser hair removal usually requires six to eight treatments. The interval between treatments varies depending on the location. In areas where hair grows fast, such as the upper lip, the treatment can be repeated in less than four weeks. In areas with slow hair growth, such as the back, treatment can be up to every two months.

For each treatment you will wear special glasses to protect your eyes from the laser beam.

During application

Depending on the type of laser, a cooling device on the tip of the instrument or a cool gel can be used to protect the skin and reduce the risk of side effects. When the doctor activates the laser, the laser beam passes through your skin into the hair follicles. The intense heat from the laser beam damages the hair follicles, which inhibits hair growth. You may feel discomfort, such as a sting, and you will probably feel a cold sensation from the cooler or gel.

After laser hair removal and between scheduled treatments, avoid sunlight or solarium. Use a broad-spectrum SPF30 sunscreen daily.

Laser hair removal does not guarantee permanent hair removal. When hair regrowth after years, it is usually thinner and lighter in color. You may need maintenance treatments of up to 3 per year for long-term hair loss.

If you choose to use a laser hair removal device at home, follow the instructions that came with the device to reduce the risk of injury, especially to the eyes.