How Does Laser Hair Removal Kill Hair Follicles?
Laser hair removal works by using the energy from a laser to target and damage the hair follicles, ultimately inhibiting their ability to grow hair. Here's how the process works:
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Targeting Melanin: The primary target of laser hair removal is melanin, the pigment that gives color to our hair and skin. Hair follicles contain melanin, which absorbs the laser's energy.
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Selective Absorption: The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft. This energy is converted into heat, which damages the hair follicle.
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Heat Damage: As the melanin absorbs the laser energy, it heats up. This heat causes damage to the hair follicle's structure, particularly the cells responsible for hair growth. It effectively disrupts the follicle's ability to produce new hair.
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Stages of Hair Growth: Hair grows in different stages, including the anagen (active growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting) phases. Laser hair removal is most effective during the anagen phase when the hair is actively growing and well-connected to the follicle. Not all hair is in the same growth stage at the same time, so multiple sessions are required to target hair in the anagen phase.
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Follicle Weakening: Over several laser sessions, the repeated exposure to laser energy weakens the hair follicles, reducing their ability to grow hair. With each session, the hair in the treated area becomes finer, lighter, and less noticeable.
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Hair Reduction: The ultimate goal of laser hair removal is to significantly reduce the amount and thickness of hair in the treated area, resulting in smoother and less hairy skin.
It's important to note that laser hair removal is most effective for individuals with a contrast between their skin tone and hair color, as the laser targets the melanin in the hair. Dark hair on light skin yields the best results, while treatments on light hair or dark skin require specialized laser systems.
The procedure should be performed by a trained and certified practitioner to ensure safety and effectiveness. Multiple sessions are typically required to achieve optimal results, and maintenance sessions may be needed to address any hair regrowth in the long term.