Laser hair removal may not be the sexiest topic, but dermatologists love this life-changing treatment. Waxing, threading, and shaving can be frustrating and time-consuming, but they can also cause temporary and even long-term changes to your skin! Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Zena Gabriel would like to educate you on the differences between these choices.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Each type of laser uses a different wavelength depending on what it is intended to target. Laser hair removal works using a laser with a 755nm or 1064nm wavelength. This wavelength travels into your skin at the correct depth to target the hair bulb where hair growth occurs. The energy targets dark pigments, so it heats and destroys the hair bulb and stops hair growth.
Hair grows in cycles, and only a percentage of hairs will be in their active phase during each treatment. Most people will need four to six laser hair removal treatments. In general, fine hairs, such as those on the face, need more treatments than thicker hairs, such as the pubic area. Thicker hairs absorb more heat, making treatment more effective.