Laser hair removal uses light treatments to heat and destroy hair follicles. The laser uses a specific wavelength of light aimed at the hair follicle. This light damages the melanin in the hair follicle, making it less able to grow.
Laser hair removal works best for dark and coarse hair. But it may also work on some types of lighter hair.
Laser hair removal is used to remove body hair wherever it isn't wanted, such as from the face, legs, and underarms.
Lasers have been used for many years to remove hair. While they can permanently reduce the number of body hairs, they aren't able to permanently remove all hair. Sometimes the hair follicles can still grow hair, but the new hair will be finer and lighter than the original hair. Usually several treatments are needed.
Risks of laser hair removal include skin irritation and changes in the color of the skin (pigment changes).
If you are thinking about getting laser hair removal, choosing the right doctor is important. You can see a dermatologist or a doctor who is board-certified in cosmetic surgery. Choose someone who has experience doing laser hair removal. Sometimes the doctor's assistant or nurse gives the treatment under the doctor's guidance. Sometimes laser hair removal is done at spas or salons by people who might not have proper training. In these cases, the risk for long-term problems is greater.