Laser
Hair Removal
Indications
Unwanted hair can be a problem for both males and females
causing embarrassment, especially facial hair for women.
Most other techniques for hair removal are short lived and
may be expensive.
Technique
The hair growth cycle involves 3 stages, the active growth
phase, the resting phase and the shedding phase. The laser
only works on the active phase of growth and as this may
vary from individual hair follicles the treatment may have
to be repeated several times.
The laser emits energy of a particular wave length which
is absorbed by the pigment found in hair. The thermal energy
is then transmitted via the hair follicle down the hair
shaft and causes irreversible damage to the growth centre
or hair follicle. The root of the hair therefore stops growing
and the hair may come out immediately or within the first
21 days. Various laser systems may be used, the commonest
being ruby lasers, large Nd- YAG laser and Alexandrite lasers.
Length of Operation
Initially a test patch is carried out to determine the amount
of stinging effect felt during a procedure as the hair evaporates
when exposed to laser energy. This is left for 6-8 weeks
to see if there are any unwanted side effects. Some discomfort
may persist and if this is a particular problem a local
anaesthetic gel can be applied. The length of treatment
depends on the area covered. Treatment is normally carried
out at intervals of 4-8 weeks depending on the area treated.
Time in Hospital
It is normally done as an out-patient and therefore no time
off work is necessary.
Risks and Complications
Treatment does not normally work on very blond, white or
grey hair due to the lack of pigment. It should not be used
in the ears or the nose due to potential damage of surrounding
tissues. The area to be treated should have recently been
shaved so only a small amount of hair is visible. It is
important not to have undergone any other form of hair removal
6 weeks prior to the treatment.
Occasionally blistering or skin depigmentation (lightening
may occur). This is normally short lived but occasionally
can be long term. This is due to underlying damage to the
melanin in the skin.
Any moles in the treated area or freckles may become darker
as a result of the treatment and therefore these are normally
covered during the treatment.
One should avoid any form of sun exposure or tanning treatment
prior to laser removal by using a total sun block for UVA
and UVB.
Photosensitisation (skin irritation) may occur when the
laser is used on patients taking certain medications. It
is advisable to check whether the medication you are on
can result in photosensitisation prior to treatment. Special
care should be taken in pigmented skin.
Outcome and Prognosis
At least 3 treatments are normally recommended. The treatment
is rarely permanent as hair follicles can remain dormant
and then enter an active growth pattern. A significant reduction
in hair growth is seen by the majority of patients. If regrowth
occurs the hair is finer and less dense. Repeat treatments
may be required several times a year.
