VancodermadminScience and Technology of Laser Hair Removal
Unwanted Hair Reduction requires understanding of optical and physiological (hair cycle) properties of skin. Selective-photothermolysis ensures laser absorption only by the target chromophore and subsequent microscopic damage to the concerned tissue.
The colour of skin and hair as well as hair shaft characteristics play a role in successful laser hair reduction. Laser platforms used in hair reduction include Ruby, Alexandrite, Diode, long pulse Nd: YAG as well as non-laser machine, Intense Pulse Light sources.
The treating technician should be aware of the terms:
Thermal damage time, thermal relaxation time of the target tissue and wavelength, pulse, pulse duration, spot size and fluence of the laser in use.
The choice of laser depends upon the skin type and availability of the laser machine.
References:
1. Ohshiro T, Maruyama Y. The ruby and argon lasers in the treatment of naevi. Ann Acad Med Singapore. 1983;12:388-95
2. Patil Uddhav A, Lakshyajit D. Dhami. “Overview of Lasers.” Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery: Official Publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India 2008; 41. S101–S113.
3. Goldberg DJ. LASERS and the LAW: what the dermatologist needs to know. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2013;32:205-8