When speaking of laser hair removal, there are basically only two kinds
. Both types employ heat that is generated by a high intensity light source. First, is the IPL or Intense Pulsed light model. It uses a xenon tube to generate high intensity light. Then there are the actual lasers that use diode laser light emissions to generate the light. Both styles are referred to as laser because they use light as their energy source. They perform the same function of using light to generate heat that is repeatedly applied to the hair follicle. The repeated heating disables the follicle resulting in permanent hair removal.
We've had laser hair removal since the 1970's. Modern technology has decreased their size making them small enough for home use. The modern laser is referred to as the personal laser hair remover. Personal laser hair removers are considered safe by physicians and have the same rate of success as the large units when it comes to permanent hair removal.
Photothermolysis or heating through light energy is the principle behind laser hair removers. The laser light specifically acts upon the hair follicle by passing through the skin. By re-applying the laser, the heat from the light will inhibit the follicle resulting in permanent hair removal. Light skinned, dark haired users are the ideal candidates as the laser more easily penetrates the skin to act on the follicle. Men and women alike have successfully used laser hair remover on most parts of their bodies.
Repeated re-applications of the laser are required for permanent hair loss. As all users are different, the number of treatments will vary. Most users can see visible results within the first 2 or 3 treatments and permanent hair loss is seen with as few as 5 treatments with the laser hair remover. You will have to wait 4 to 5 weeks between each treatment depending on your skin tone and hair color. Few users report discomfort with the usual side effect being redness, itching or swelling.
The cost of the device can range from $200 to $1000 and will vary with the type and number of accessories (replacement lamps etc.) included in the set. The size of the application area will also vary with the larger lamps costing more as they can treat a larger area decreasing the time required for each treatment.