General Information
Early history
The 1960s brought society to a point of considering a way to remove unwanted hair as the hair removal industry seemed to be enthusiastic about the potential generated by its research. Unfortunately, hair removal providers began developing and utilizing laser light before effectiveness and safety factors had been fully explored by clinical researchers that should have included dermatologists and researchers. The first generation of lasers that were used for hair removal emitted a single continuous wave which was later discovered to not be a practical application since the beam could not be controlled which caused damage to skin tissue.
In 1969, lasers were developed that delivered energy through a tiny fiber optic probe to target and "attack" individual follicles. Before the device was cleared through the FDA as effective and safe, it was rushed to market with claims that they could permanently eliminate hair growth which were proven false since testing of the devices had not yet been completed. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) intervened.
Ten years later, data verified laser energy was successful in the treatment of ingrown eyelashes as researchers also found lasers useful in removing specific kinds of tattoos. After it was noted that hair loss sometimes resulted, the device was once again promoted as a hair remover, even though adequate testing was still unavailable. When the FDA approved use of SoftLight lasers for hair removal during the mid 90's, it was once again presented to the hair removing industry. Still without sufficient testing, the device was nevertheless marketed as "painless" and "permanent." Once again the FDA stepped in and after several more years of unsubstantiated claims while using consumers as "guinea pigs"- lawsuits erupted and consumers were unhappy.
A breakthrough
In the 1970's an unwilling scientist exposed his arm to a 692 diode pumped YAG for several seconds only later realizing that the hair was burned off. The incident did not hurt him, and there were not any negative effects regarding the skin, but the hair never grew back.
This same experiment was repeated several times with the same results, slowly changing the face of the hair removal industry. Soon the FDA approved this new method of hair removal and over the next 20 years the advancement of laser hair removal has been revolutionary.
A future without tweezers, razors, hot wax, and smelly lotions seems too good to be true for hairlessness as research in energy wavelengths; pulse durations and intensity levels were carefully researched. Side effects were minimized and effectiveness increased dramatically. In the late 90s, researchers and technicians added photosensitive (light-absorbing) carbon dyes which dramatically improved the rate of photon thermal exchange (conversion of radiation into heat), making the procedure more effective and reliable on light colored hair growth. This new field of development was called Photodynamic Therapy (PDT).
In spite of this new development, the use of lasers was not entirely new to the cosmetic industry. In fact, they had been utilized for years in treating facial and leg veins, age spots, and smoothing fine lines on the face. Laser energy is transformed into heat, disabling the follicle while leaving the surrounding area unaffected. Methods in the past have included electrolysis but that procedure was limited in its treatment because it meant treating each individual hair independently which was time consuming, not to mention expensive. With laser hair removal being non-invasive, it is easy to treat delicate skin in larger areas without disrupting the structure of the outer layer of skin. Technicians consult with you about the different types of lasers and what process is best for you. It is important to remember however, that the laser can only destroy hair in its active growth phase (referred to as the anagen phase). Up to 85% of our hair is in this phase at any given time and the positive aspect is that during this phase, our hair has an abundance of melanin and the hair follicle is easily targeted.
Types of lasers
- Alexandrite - such as the Candela GentleLase Plus.
- Ruby - such as the EpiTouch or the Epilaser.
- Diode - such as the Coherent Light Sheer.
- ND and LP ND Yag - such as the Candela GentleYag and the Altus Cool Glide.
Factors
- Pulse length - long pulsed lasers are considered safest.
- Fluence - Selection of energy levels can be varied for skin type.
- Delay - The time between pulses of light affects how much the skin and hair follicles are allowed to cool off.
- Spot Size - Affects the speed and penetration of the laser. A larger spot penetrates deeper. A good selection of spot sizes helps the technician reach the hair at the depth at which it grows.
- Cooling - The surrounding skin may be protected by a gel, spray, or cooled tip pressed against the skin.
Emerging laser technologies have made it possible for people with many skin and hair color combinations to enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal. These lasers have been designed to ignore the melanin in the skin and to safely treat patients of all skin types. Having said that, the most successful results are those patients with dark hair and light skin--light skinned, dark haired patients will have a more significant result than patients with blond or red hair or patients with darker skin and will need fewer treatments for a more permanent hair reduction. It is best to consult with your specialist to see which laser system is best for you.
Advantages
- Research has proven that it is also a safe and effective method for tattoo removal.
- It is considered safe when performed properly by an experienced provider.
- Light-skinned, dark haired consumers experience best results.
- Re-growth is often lighter with finer texture.
- Because the laser method is quicker than electrolysis, it is especially useful for large areas of hair removal in one sitting.
Disadvantages
- The procedure requires eye protection.
- The procedure can be expensive.
- It is not as effective on darker skin tones or on persons with gray, red, or blonde hair.
- Improper treatment or overexposure to laser light can cause burns, lesions, and long-lasting skin discoloration.
- Re-growth can be patchy or patterned.
- Because regulations vary, inadequate control methods to ensure competent practitioners exist.
- Some persons find the treatment painful.
- Some persons, even those determined to be a good candidate, do not respond well to treatment.
Disclaimer:
This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician
