Overview of Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a hair removal technique that offers permanent hair reduction. That is a distinction from permanent hair removal, a claim permitted to be made only by employing electrolysis as a hair removal method. At least that's what the FDA says. That does not suggest that laser hair removal couldn't remove all of your unwanted body hair, only that you should be aware that, for some people, laser hair removal won't be as effective as on other people.

What is a laser, you probably want to know? Well, laser is actually the acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation, and it's an optical device which creates a very intensely focused light beam. They're actually very common and not limited to kids' toy guns — you've probably got a couple at home, inside your CD player and PC, not to mention the TV remote control that you're always losing.

Laser hair removal treatment works by releasing wavelengths of light which are absorbed by the pigment or melanin in your hair. Some lasers work best when there is a clear distinction between the hair color and the skin color (i.e. dark brown hair, fair skin tone). When there is such delineation, then all of the laser's energy is concentrated on the hair, not the skin, and the heat or energy from the laser destroys the hair shaft. Fortunately, there are several different types of hair removal lasers on the market, and most hair removal centers have more than one type on hand.

Because every individual will have a different hair removal requirement (eyebrow hair removal versus leg hair removal), there's no one size fits all pricing plan. The laser hair removal cost will vary from individual to individual, and should be made clear to you at your first consultation. The prices will be based on how much hair needs to be removed, how well you respond to the hair removal treatment, and how many sessions you need to attend; generally at least six to eight treatments are required, which could last over a course of eight to twelve weeks.

Oh, you thought laser hair treatment was a one shot deal. Sorry. The problem is that hair goes through several stages, and if you have hair removal treatment during the growth phase, then your hair in the dormant or resting phase isn't affected. You have to go back when the resting hair is "awake."

Don't be discouraged by the thought that the process may take longer than you had originally expected. How long it takes varies from individual to individual. If you're unhappy with certain aspects of your appearance, and can do something about it, then the time it takes to successfully complete laser hair removal will be a pleasure, not a chore.