Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Traditional hair removal techniques such as shaving, tweezing and waxing only provide temporary results. Laser hair removal reduction is a safe, effective way to permanently diminish unwanted hair growth.

The laser light energy is absorbed by melanin in the hair, which is converted to heat and destroys the hair follicle, preventing future hair growth. A numbing topical may be applied to ensure comfort during treatment.

Alexandrite

The alexandrite laser uses a selective photothermolysis technique to eliminate unwanted hair or skin cells. It emits a wavelength of 755 nm that is well-absorbed by melanin, which makes it an ideal treatment for light-skinned patients (phototypes I through III).

When paired with a dye, such as indocyanine green, this laser can also treat varicose veins. This combination results in significantly lower vein hardness than those that have not been treated with a long-pulsed alexandrite laser at two different concentrations.

Alexandrite lasers have been shown to be effective in the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) by decreasing disease severity and acute flare. In one study, combining a long-pulsed 755 nm alexandrite laser with oral zinc was shown to be more effective than either method alone.

The alexandrite laser works by focusing light at the protein in the hair roots. This heats up the proteins and denatures them, so that they cannot provide nutrients for growing new hair. This laser can also be used to treat folliculitis.

Nd: YAG

The Nd: YAG laser emits high-energy wavelengths that are absorbed by the pigment melanin in hair. This energy is converted into heat and destroys the germinal cells of the hair follicle, preventing new hair growth. This is a safe and effective method of permanent hair reduction for patients with all six skin types, including darker skin and tanned skin.

In a recent study, long pulsed Nd: YAG laser with contact cooling was found to be an effective treatment for nonablative rejuvenation of the aging face. The results were comparable to a dermal filler with the added benefit of not having to go under the knife.

The Nd: YAG laser is also used for skin tightening, pore clearing and blemish removal. Its ability to target vascular lesions and other pigmented areas make it a versatile option for all skin types and hair colours. The ND: YAG laser uses dual wavelengths for versatility and is capable of performing many different treatments with just one machine.

Diode

This laser technology delivers fast, safe and effective permanent hair reduction. The pulsating beam of light energy penetrates the skin, targeting pigment cells (melanin) in the hair follicles to prevent future growth. It also reduces ingrown hairs and helps to promote rapid healing of the skin.

Diode lasers emit light in the visible to infrared spectrum, targeting specific chromophores (melanin or blood) within the skin without damaging surrounding tissue. When the laser’s wavelength is targeted by melanin in the hair follicle, the hair shaft is heated and destroyed. It is the most widely used hair removal laser because it works on all skin types and body areas.

The examined 810 nm novel scanning diode laser was found to be safe and effective for axillary hair reduction, with results sustained up to six months after the last treatment. It is a good option for any patient looking to permanently remove unwanted hair and reduce the number of waxes or shaving sessions required to maintain smooth skin.

Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide lasers emit light with a peak wavelength of 10,600 nm that is preferentially absorbed by intracellular water. This ablation induces heat-mediated contraction of collagen fibers, producing tightening of the skin. The National Collaborating Centre for Cancer’s clinical practice guideline on Melanoma (2014; Gold et al) recommends CO2 laser resurfacing to reduce the appearance of hypertrophic scarring and keloids caused by burns, surgical wounds, or acne.

Pixel CO2 treatments vaporize damaged or abnormally pigmented skin cells, and stimulate new skin cell growth. This tightens and tones underlying skin, improving fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin tone.

A retrospective study on benign familial chronic pemphigus found that laser treatment resulted in improved symptom control and decreased recurrence of lesions compared to the atypically aggressive dermabrasion procedure. However, the authors noted that this study had several limitations, including the retrospective design and small sample size.