If you missed part one of our discussion on laser hair removal click here: Laser Hair Removal to read it.  If you’ve already read part one and you’re here to read part two, welcome back.

Let’s kick it off by talking about the types of lasers used for laser hair removal.  There are several different types of lasers that are used for hair removal.  They are defined by the lasing medium used to produce the laser.  Let’s have a look at the different types.  They are also defined by the wavelength of the laser which is measured in nanometers.

• Nd:YAG laser: 1064 nm Near-Infrared.  They laser is effective on all skin tones but it is made primarily for removing hair in dark skinned people.
• Argon:   488 nm – Deep Sky Blue or 514.5 nm – Cyan. It is not used for hair removal any more.
• Ruby: 694.3 nm – Orange Red.  This laser has also been discontinued for use with laser hair removal since it is only safe for use on patients with very pale skin.
• Alexandrite: 755 nm  – Red.  This laser works best on light colored skin and it’s not safe for use on dark skin types.
• Pulsed diode array: 810 nm Near-Infrared.  This laser works best on light to medium toned skin.

The pulse width is an important factor in the effectiveness of laser hair removal.  Shorter pulse widths are most effective and hair removal but longer pulse widths are safer for individuals with dark skin.  It’s believed that a few pulses in a row is at each hair follicle give the longest lasting results.

For the longest lasting results, several treatment sessions are required.  The number of sessions is usually between six and eight.  The patient must wait about eight weeks between each treatment session.  The number of treatment sessions depends on skin pigment, sex, coarseness of the hair, and location of the hair on the body.  Some parts of the body necessitate more sessions than on others.  Men’s faces would be a good example of an area that is likely to require more sessions.

There are some potential side effects that are worth noting.  They are itching, swelling, and redness.  These side effects
should only last a few days.  Another side effect is pain.  It’s likely to sting a bit.  Most laser hair removal clinics will apply numbing cream to the area before and after the treatment session to minimize any discomfort that patients might experience.

If the right laser isn’t used for a particular skin type or the settings are calibrated incorrectly there are risks of skin burning, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation (light or dark skin pigmentation), acne break outs, swelling, scabs, red of purple skin, and infection.

photo credit: Vancouver Laser & Skincare Centre

You may enjoy reading the next article on my site that discusses laser hair removal prices.  Thanks for visiting my site on facial hair removal!