Factors Affecting Laser Hair Removal Success

Hair can vary widely in width, color and depth. Therefore, the level of laser energy applied during laser hair removal on one skin area might not be as effective as on another area.

Those with little skin melanin, which gives skin its color, are better candidates for laser hair removal because their hair is more prominent. Those with more skin melanin are less suitable for laser hair removal because their hair and skin are dark. Lighter colored hair follicles and gray, red or blonde hair also makes laser hair removal difficult because the hair may be too light.

Diet generally won’t interfere with laser hair removal except for Beta-Carotene. Beta Carotene, found in vitamin A supplements and vegetables like carrots and squash, produces a subtle orange or yellow skin color. During laser hair removal, these colors absorb laser energy preventing it from reaching the hair follicle. Beta Carotene should be avoided for laser hair removal treatments because it persists for months after ingestion

Other factors affecting the success of laser hair removal:

· Pulse Width – Studies have shown that longer laser pulse widths during laser hair removal may be more effective and have fewer side effects. While not demonstrated in published studies, very long or super long pulse lasers during laser hair removal are thought to be effective and safe for darker skin.
· Laser Beam Width - Lasers have a width about the size of the little finger. Laser width that is four times as wide as the target is deep is a proper ratio for successful laser hair removal.
· Fluence - The level of laser energy, measured in joules per square centimeter.
· Repetition rate - A slight improvement in the effectiveness of laser hair removal can occur when two or three laser pulses are shot at the same target with a specific delay between pulses.
· Epidermal cooling – Allows for higher laser fluences and reduces pain and side effects during laser hair removal. Types include:
§ Clear chilled gel
§ Contact cooling through a window cooled by circulating water
§ Cryogen spray applied immediately before and after a laser pulse
§ Air cooling
· Skin Depth – The deeper the target, the more skin the laser must travel through. The laser scatters as it travels deeper into the skin making it less effective. The upper skin can be overheated the deeper the laser must travel during laser hair removal.