Laser hair removal is a common dermatological procedure for millions of people across the United States. Through a specialized process known as selective photothermolysis, a CO2 cold laser is used to dissolve hair follicles under a person’s skin. The following guide explores the science and technology behind laser hair removal.
The history and story behind laser hair removal
Specialized lasers have been used for hair removal for almost 20 years. Before laser hair removal became available to consumers, many patients were limited to electrolysis. Electrolysis involves the placement of small electrodes under a person’s skin. In this process, a small electric current is run through the skin, killing the hair follicle. While electrolysis can reduce hair growth for up to six months, it doesn’t completely eliminate hair growth. In addition, the process can be very time-consuming. In many cases, patients require 10 or more visits to eliminate all the hair from desired parts of the body. In addition, the process can be painful.
Laser hair removal is less painful and faster than electrolysis. Since a specialized CO2 laser can target the dermal layer of the skin, receiving a laser hair removal treatment is relatively painless.
How laser hair removal works in Orange County
The laser used for laser hair removal is designed to target the layer of the skin that contains melanin. Melanin is a pigment that plays an important role in determining a person’s skin color. For example, people with an African heritage often have higher levels of melanin in their skin.
When the laser hits melanin particles in the skin, that layer of the skin heats up significantly. This permanently kills nearby hair follicles. Since the melanin layer of the skin isn’t near pain receptors, patients receiving this treatment technique don’t feel any pain.
Is laser hair removal a quick process?
Laser hair removal is very fast. Unlike electrolysis, a laser can cover a vast swath of skin in very little time. In most cases, patients don’t require a follow-up visit for hair removal.
That said, laser hair removal does have some limitations. Since laser hair removal targets the layer of skin that contains melanin, patients with darker skin may experiencing a lightening of the skin during this process. Because of this, laser hair removal is usually recommended for those with lighter skin.
For patients who have dark spots under their skin, a CO2 laser can also be used for skin lightening. In many cases, blemishes and old age spots can be eliminated from the dermal layer of the skin.
Call and set up a consultation at one of our Orange County offices to further discuss laser hair removal with one of our board-certified dermatologists.