In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this popular laser procedure, from how it works to its benefits and potential risks.

Laser hair removal is a highly effective cosmetic procedure that employs specific types of laser wavelengths, such as Alexandrite and Nd:YAG, to target and eliminate unwanted hair. Let’s delve deeper into what these lasers are and how they contribute to the success of laser hair removal.

Lasers work on the principle of selective photothermolysis. Photothermolysis is a fundamental concept in the field of medical and cosmetic laser procedures, including laser hair removal. It refers to the selective destruction of a target tissue using laser light, where the energy from the laser is absorbed by a specific chromophore (a molecule that absorbs light) within the tissue, leading to the generation of heat and subsequent tissue damage.

The term “photothermolysis” is derived from three key components:

1. Photo – This part of the word refers to “light,” specifically the laser light used in the procedure.

2. Thermo – This component denotes “heat,” which is generated as a result of the laser energy being absorbed by the target tissue.

3. Lysis- “Lysis” means the breakdown or destruction of the target tissue.

The chromophores targeted are melanin and haemoglobin. When the laser emits light at specific wavelengths, they are absorbed by the melanin and haemoglobin in the hair follicle, which has a higher melanin and haemoglobin content than the surrounding skin. The absorbed laser energy is converted into heat within the hair follicle, raising the temperature to a level that damages the follicle’s structure, specifically the bulge and papilla, to a level where they are damaged and unable to support hair growth, without significantly affecting the surrounding skin.

The laser device used for hair removal is equipped with parameters that can be adjusted to control the amount of heat delivered to the hair follicle. Factors such as laser energy intensity, pulse duration, and spot size can be tailored to match an individual’s skin type, hair colour, and hair thickness. This customisation ensures that the right amount of energy is directed at the follicle while minimising the risk of skin damage.

To further protect the skin and enhance patient comfort, our laser incorporates a cooling system that provides cooling before, during, and after each laser pulse. Cooling helps to counteract the heat generated by the laser and prevent it from affecting the skin’s surface.

Achieving the right balance of heat application and protecting the skin requires the expertise of a trained and experienced laser hair removal technician. Our professionals are skilled in assessing each patient’s unique characteristics and adjusting the treatment parameters accordingly to maximise effectiveness and safety.

At Oasis Wellbeing Clinic we have a particularly unique medical grade laser that produces two wavelengths independently, or simultaneously. The two wavelengths available are Alexandrite and Nd:YAG.

   – The Alexandrite laser is a popular choice for laser hair removal due to its efficiency and precision.

   – It emits a specific wavelength of light (755 nanometers), which is highly absorbed by melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour.

   – This laser is most effective for individuals with fair to olive skin tones

   – It can target larger areas of the body, making it suitable for treatments on the legs, arms, back, and face.

   – Alexandrite lasers often provide fast, pain free, treatment sessions.

   – The Nd:YAG laser is another commonly used option for laser hair removal, especially for individuals with darker skin tones.

   – the Nd:YAG wavelength is absorbed in haemoglobin and melanin, meaning reduction is possible in light or dark hair

   – It emits a longer wavelength of light (1064 nanometers), allowing it to penetrate deeper into the skin without significantly affecting the surrounding tissues.

   – This laser is suitable for a wider range of skin types, including those with darker or tanned skin.

   – It can effectively target hair follicles on individuals with dark or light hair.

These laser wavelengths can be used on their own or mixed together in a treatment called Mixed Technology.

The use of Mixing Technology in laser hair removal is a significant advancement in the field of cosmetic procedures. This approach combines the benefits of both Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers to optimise outcomes and safety for a broader range of skin types and hair colours. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages:

Some individuals may have skin tones that fall in between the ideal ranges for Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers. The Mixing Technology allows for more precise and safer treatment on these “borderline” skin types. It reduces the risk of adverse effects like hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

The simultaneous emission of both Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers ensures that a broader spectrum of hair colours and depths is effectively targeted. While Alexandrite is excellent for lighter skin and dark hair types, Nd:YAG is more versatile for darker skin or light hair colors. Mixing Technology leverages the strengths of both lasers to provide better hair reduction outcomes.

For individuals who find Nd:YAG treatments more painful, combining it with Alexandrite can mitigate the discomfort. Alexandrite is known for its speed and cooling features, which can enhance the overall treatment experience.

White and grey hairs, which lack melanin and are traditionally challenging to treat with lasers, can benefit significantly from Mixing Technology. This approach can achieve up to a 60% reduction in just four sessions, making it a more viable option for those with such hair colours.

Your laser technician will customise the laser settings to suit each patient’s unique skin and hair characteristics, ensuring a safe and effective treatment plan.

With the combination of Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers, patients may require fewer sessions to achieve their desired results compared to using one laser wavelength alone.

It’s important to note that the choice between these lasers depends on your skin type, hair colour, and the area you want to treat. To determine the most suitable laser for your specific needs, it’s essential to consult with our qualified laser hair removal technicians who can assess your individual characteristics and provide personalised recommendations for the most effective and safe treatment.

PART 2 – Hair growth cycles and why multiple sessions are necessary.