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How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal has quickly become one of the most popular options for long-term hair reductionâand for good reason. Unlike shaving or waxing, which offer only temporary results, this treatment uses concentrated light to target hair follicles at the root, helping to reduce regrowth over time. The result? Smoother skin with fewer maintenance sessions.
In this article, weâll break down how laser hair removal works, what the process involves, the benefits you can expect, and how to prepare before and after your appointments.
Key Takeaways
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive procedure that reduces unwanted hair by using concentrated light energy to target hair follicles. The laser emits a specific wavelength that is absorbed by melanin (the pigment in hair), converting light into heat. This heat damages the follicle, slowing down or preventing future hair growth.
While the treatment significantly reduces hair regrowth, multiple sessions are typically needed for long-term results.Â
Both women and men can achieve effective hair removal in various common areas where unwanted hair tends to grow. The following list highlights popular treatment areas for both genders:
At the heart of this technique lies laser technology, which emits light at specific wavelengths that can be absorbed by target substances like melanin, the pigment found in hair. When the laser light is directed at the hair, the melanin absorbs the energy, converting it into heat. This heat damages the hair follicle, inhibiting its ability to regenerate hair. The treatment is most effective during the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, when follicles are actively producing hair.
The success of the procedure depends on selecting the appropriate laser device. Different lasers are designed with varying wavelengths, which penetrate the skin to different depths and have varying affinities for melanin.Â
For example, the Alexandrite laser, emitting light at 755 nm, is best suited for lighter skin tones, while the neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser, with a wavelength of 1064 nm, works effectively on darker skin.Â
The right choice of laser ensures that dermatologists can provide safe and effective treatment across a wide range of skin and hair types. As demand for these personalised treatments grows, the global laser hair removal market is projected to reach USD 1.58 billion by 2025, reflecting both technological advancements and increasing consumer interest in long-term hair reduction solutions.
At the Institute of Medical Physics, we offer a scientifically advanced approach with our exclusive Laseinfinity⢠Super Laser Hair Removal treatment. This cutting-edge technology utilises six full-spectrum lasers, delivering optimal results for all skin types, hair colours, and body areas. This revolutionary approach maximises effectiveness while minimising any damageâeven for the most stubborn hair.
The laser hair removal process involves a series of steps both before and after the treatment. Hereâs what you can expect during the procedure:
Before beginning any laser hair removal treatment, a thorough consultation is important to assess your skin type, hair colour, and overall suitability for the procedure. During this session, the dermatologist will review your medical history, answer any questions, and create a personalised treatment plan.
To enhance the precision of your treatment, we utilise our cutting-edge BHBR⢠technology. This groundbreaking polymetabolic screening technique provides a detailed, clear picture of your unique biology, offering valuable insights into your hair growth patterns. With this information, we can optimise each session to ensure the most effective and personalised results for you.
Before your first treatment session, avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least four to six weeks, as tanned skin increases the risk of side effects, and refrain from waxing or plucking for at least six weeks, as these methods can make the laser hair removal less effective. Shaving is acceptable, but avoid irritating skin products like retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids, as they can increase sensitivity and the risk of irritation or redness following your laser treatment.
On the day of treatment, the targeted area will be thoroughly cleansed, and protective eyewear will be provided. The hair in the treatment area will be trimmed to a shorter length to improve the effectiveness of the procedure. The skin should be free of any abrasions, redness, or inflammation before the treatment begins.
The practitioner will use a handheld device to deliver laser pulses to the hair follicles. Each pulse lasts a fraction of a second. Most patients experience mild tingling or a warm sensation during the treatment, which is generally well-tolerated.
After the treatment, a soothing cream or probiotic spray is applied to the skin to promote healing and reduce any potential side effects. Multiple sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results, as laser hair removal only targets hair in the active growth phase. Dermatologists recommend spacing these sessions at intervals of three to eight weeks.
While significant hair reduction may not be immediately visible after the first session, most individuals begin to notice changes after several treatments. Hair shedding typically occurs days to weeks following each session, providing a clearer picture of the treatmentâs effectiveness over time.
Hair reduction generally becomes noticeable after the third or fourth session. Factors like hair type, skin tone, and the treatment area can influence the timeline, and individual results may vary.Â
On average, most individuals need between 6 and 8 sessions to achieve significant long-term hair reduction. However, the exact number of sessions may vary depending on several factors:
Over time, hair density and regrowth decrease, leading to smoother skin and fewer maintenance sessions. Patience and consistency are key, as the cumulative effects of each treatment session contribute to overall success.
Laser hair removal is often marketed as a long-term solution for permanent hair reduction but itâs important to understand that it isnât always permanent. While laser treatment significantly reduces hair growth, it doesnât guarantee the complete and permanent removal of all hair.
Factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, and individual variations in how your body responds to the treatment can influence the results. For most people, laser hair removal provides a substantial reduction in hair density and regrowth, with many experiencing smooth, hair-free skin for months or even years after completing their sessions.
While laser hair removal is generally considered safe and effective there are some risks and side effects that potential patients should be aware of before undergoing treatment. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision and ensure a positive experience. Some of the potential side effects include:
To reduce the likelihood of these side effects, it's important to choose a reputable clinic or practitioner with a proven track record in performing laser hair removal. High-quality laser devices and proper calibration are crucial for ensuring safety. A skilled practitioner will consider the patient's skin type, hair colour, and medical history to determine the most appropriate laser settings.Â
Achieving effective laser hair removal depends on various factors, including hair colour, skin tone, and the specific technology utilised. Traditionally, individuals with lighter skin and darker hair have experienced the best outcomes due to the contrast that allows lasers to target hair follicles more precisely. However, advancements in laser technology have broadened the range of treatable skin and hair types.â
At the Institute of Medical Physics, the Laseinfinity⢠Super Laser Hair Removal system exemplifies these advancements. This system incorporates six specialised lasers, each tailored to address different skin tones and hair colours. This versatility enables the customisation of treatments to enhance both safety and efficacy.â
For personalised advice and to explore how Laseinfinity⢠can be adapted to your specific needs, consider scheduling a consultation with the specialists at the Institute of Medical Physics.
The Institute of Medical Physics, founded by Dr. Emanuel Paleco, is at the forefront of Medical and Aesthetic Laser Science, with a flagship clinic in King's Cross and locations across North London and Essex. Our mission is to provide cutting-edge treatments rooted in science and guided by patient wellbeing.
Our exclusive Laseinfinity⢠treatment represents the next generation of laser hair removal. By combining six advanced laser technologies into one comprehensive system, Laseinfinity⢠allows for precise, safe, and effective treatment across all skin types and tones. Whether targeting fine facial hair or larger body areas, this system is designed to deliver lasting results with minimal discomfort.
At the Institute of Medical Physics, we are committed to innovation, safety, and personalised careâempowering you to feel confident in every treatment you choose.
The treatment removes hair by using concentrated light energy to target the pigment (melanin) in hair follicles. The laserâs energy is absorbed by the melanin, damaging the follicle and inhibiting its ability to produce hair. Over multiple treatments, this leads to a permanent reduction in hair growth, effectively removing unwanted hair and providing long-term results.
Yes, laser hair removal is especially effective on dark hair. The laser targets the melanin in the hair, and darker hair absorbs more light than lighter hair, making it easier for the treatment to work. This makes laser hair removal a highly effective method for dark hair, leading to permanent hair reduction.
Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results with a permanent reduction in hair growth after multiple treatments. It provides precision by targeting only the hair follicles, minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. It is also a relatively quick and comfortable treatment option compared to traditional methods like plucking or waxing.
While the treatment may cause a mild discomfort, it is generally well-tolerated by most individuals. The sensation is often described as a slight snapping or stinging feeling, similar to the sensation of a rubber band being snapped against the skin. Most people find the discomfort minimal, especially compared to other hair removal methods.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
Laser hair removal has quickly become one of the most popular options for long-term hair reductionâand for good reason. Unlike shaving or waxing, which offer only temporary results, this treatment uses concentrated light to target hair follicles at the root, helping to reduce regrowth over time. The result? Smoother skin with fewer maintenance sessions.
In this article, weâll break down how laser hair removal works, what the process involves, the benefits you can expect, and how to prepare before and after your appointments.
Key Takeaways
Laser hair removal is a non-invasive procedure that reduces unwanted hair by using concentrated light energy to target hair follicles. The laser emits a specific wavelength that is absorbed by melanin (the pigment in hair), converting light into heat. This heat damages the follicle, slowing down or preventing future hair growth.
While the treatment significantly reduces hair regrowth, multiple sessions are typically needed for long-term results.Â
Both women and men can achieve effective hair removal in various common areas where unwanted hair tends to grow. The following list highlights popular treatment areas for both genders:
At the heart of this technique lies laser technology, which emits light at specific wavelengths that can be absorbed by target substances like melanin, the pigment found in hair. When the laser light is directed at the hair, the melanin absorbs the energy, converting it into heat. This heat damages the hair follicle, inhibiting its ability to regenerate hair. The treatment is most effective during the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, when follicles are actively producing hair.
The success of the procedure depends on selecting the appropriate laser device. Different lasers are designed with varying wavelengths, which penetrate the skin to different depths and have varying affinities for melanin.Â
For example, the Alexandrite laser, emitting light at 755 nm, is best suited for lighter skin tones, while the neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser, with a wavelength of 1064 nm, works effectively on darker skin.Â
The right choice of laser ensures that dermatologists can provide safe and effective treatment across a wide range of skin and hair types. As demand for these personalised treatments grows, the global laser hair removal market is projected to reach USD 1.58 billion by 2025, reflecting both technological advancements and increasing consumer interest in long-term hair reduction solutions.
At the Institute of Medical Physics, we offer a scientifically advanced approach with our exclusive Laseinfinity⢠Super Laser Hair Removal treatment. This cutting-edge technology utilises six full-spectrum lasers, delivering optimal results for all skin types, hair colours, and body areas. This revolutionary approach maximises effectiveness while minimising any damageâeven for the most stubborn hair.
The laser hair removal process involves a series of steps both before and after the treatment. Hereâs what you can expect during the procedure:
Before beginning any laser hair removal treatment, a thorough consultation is important to assess your skin type, hair colour, and overall suitability for the procedure. During this session, the dermatologist will review your medical history, answer any questions, and create a personalised treatment plan.
To enhance the precision of your treatment, we utilise our cutting-edge BHBR⢠technology. This groundbreaking polymetabolic screening technique provides a detailed, clear picture of your unique biology, offering valuable insights into your hair growth patterns. With this information, we can optimise each session to ensure the most effective and personalised results for you.
Before your first treatment session, avoid sun exposure and tanning for at least four to six weeks, as tanned skin increases the risk of side effects, and refrain from waxing or plucking for at least six weeks, as these methods can make the laser hair removal less effective. Shaving is acceptable, but avoid irritating skin products like retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids, as they can increase sensitivity and the risk of irritation or redness following your laser treatment.
On the day of treatment, the targeted area will be thoroughly cleansed, and protective eyewear will be provided. The hair in the treatment area will be trimmed to a shorter length to improve the effectiveness of the procedure. The skin should be free of any abrasions, redness, or inflammation before the treatment begins.
The practitioner will use a handheld device to deliver laser pulses to the hair follicles. Each pulse lasts a fraction of a second. Most patients experience mild tingling or a warm sensation during the treatment, which is generally well-tolerated.
After the treatment, a soothing cream or probiotic spray is applied to the skin to promote healing and reduce any potential side effects. Multiple sessions are usually required to achieve optimal results, as laser hair removal only targets hair in the active growth phase. Dermatologists recommend spacing these sessions at intervals of three to eight weeks.
While significant hair reduction may not be immediately visible after the first session, most individuals begin to notice changes after several treatments. Hair shedding typically occurs days to weeks following each session, providing a clearer picture of the treatmentâs effectiveness over time.
Hair reduction generally becomes noticeable after the third or fourth session. Factors like hair type, skin tone, and the treatment area can influence the timeline, and individual results may vary.Â
On average, most individuals need between 6 and 8 sessions to achieve significant long-term hair reduction. However, the exact number of sessions may vary depending on several factors:
Over time, hair density and regrowth decrease, leading to smoother skin and fewer maintenance sessions. Patience and consistency are key, as the cumulative effects of each treatment session contribute to overall success.
Laser hair removal is often marketed as a long-term solution for permanent hair reduction but itâs important to understand that it isnât always permanent. While laser treatment significantly reduces hair growth, it doesnât guarantee the complete and permanent removal of all hair.
Factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, and individual variations in how your body responds to the treatment can influence the results. For most people, laser hair removal provides a substantial reduction in hair density and regrowth, with many experiencing smooth, hair-free skin for months or even years after completing their sessions.
While laser hair removal is generally considered safe and effective there are some risks and side effects that potential patients should be aware of before undergoing treatment. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision and ensure a positive experience. Some of the potential side effects include:
To reduce the likelihood of these side effects, it's important to choose a reputable clinic or practitioner with a proven track record in performing laser hair removal. High-quality laser devices and proper calibration are crucial for ensuring safety. A skilled practitioner will consider the patient's skin type, hair colour, and medical history to determine the most appropriate laser settings.Â
Achieving effective laser hair removal depends on various factors, including hair colour, skin tone, and the specific technology utilised. Traditionally, individuals with lighter skin and darker hair have experienced the best outcomes due to the contrast that allows lasers to target hair follicles more precisely. However, advancements in laser technology have broadened the range of treatable skin and hair types.â
At the Institute of Medical Physics, the Laseinfinity⢠Super Laser Hair Removal system exemplifies these advancements. This system incorporates six specialised lasers, each tailored to address different skin tones and hair colours. This versatility enables the customisation of treatments to enhance both safety and efficacy.â
For personalised advice and to explore how Laseinfinity⢠can be adapted to your specific needs, consider scheduling a consultation with the specialists at the Institute of Medical Physics.
The Institute of Medical Physics, founded by Dr. Emanuel Paleco, is at the forefront of Medical and Aesthetic Laser Science, with a flagship clinic in King's Cross and locations across North London and Essex. Our mission is to provide cutting-edge treatments rooted in science and guided by patient wellbeing.
Our exclusive Laseinfinity⢠treatment represents the next generation of laser hair removal. By combining six advanced laser technologies into one comprehensive system, Laseinfinity⢠allows for precise, safe, and effective treatment across all skin types and tones. Whether targeting fine facial hair or larger body areas, this system is designed to deliver lasting results with minimal discomfort.
At the Institute of Medical Physics, we are committed to innovation, safety, and personalised careâempowering you to feel confident in every treatment you choose.
The treatment removes hair by using concentrated light energy to target the pigment (melanin) in hair follicles. The laserâs energy is absorbed by the melanin, damaging the follicle and inhibiting its ability to produce hair. Over multiple treatments, this leads to a permanent reduction in hair growth, effectively removing unwanted hair and providing long-term results.
Yes, laser hair removal is especially effective on dark hair. The laser targets the melanin in the hair, and darker hair absorbs more light than lighter hair, making it easier for the treatment to work. This makes laser hair removal a highly effective method for dark hair, leading to permanent hair reduction.
Laser hair removal offers long-lasting results with a permanent reduction in hair growth after multiple treatments. It provides precision by targeting only the hair follicles, minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. It is also a relatively quick and comfortable treatment option compared to traditional methods like plucking or waxing.
While the treatment may cause a mild discomfort, it is generally well-tolerated by most individuals. The sensation is often described as a slight snapping or stinging feeling, similar to the sensation of a rubber band being snapped against the skin. Most people find the discomfort minimal, especially compared to other hair removal methods.
By -
Dr. Emanuel Paleco, PhD
May 1, 2025