ü HOW THE HAIR REMOVAL LASER WORKS ALEXANDRITE:
o PRINCIPLE OF SELECTIVE PHOTOTHERMOLISIS:
The Alexandrite laser emits a focused beam of light at a specific wavelength (typically 755 nanometers). This wavelength is highly absorbed by the melanin present in hair follicles. Melanin is responsible for hair coloring and also plays a critical role in hair growth. When the laser is directed at the skin, the melanin in the hair shaft and hair follicles absorbs the laser energy. The surrounding skin has relatively less melanin, so it is not affected by the laser. This selective absorption of laser energy by the follicles is the key to effective hair removal.
o HEAT DAMAGE:
As the melanin in the follicles absorbs the laser energy, it is converted into heat. This local heat destroys the hair follicles inhibiting their ability to regrow hair. The heat generated during the process is carefully controlled to prevent damage to the skin.
o PHASES OF HAIR GROWTH:
Hair grows in cycles and not all hair follicles produce hair at the same time. Laser hair removal is most effective when the hair is in an active growth phase (anagen phase of the hair). Since only a percentage of hair follicles are in this phase at any given time, several timed sessions are needed to target as many follicles as possible.
o AFTER THE SESSION:
After the laser session, the targeted area may experience mild redness, swelling (perifollicular), itching, which usually persists from a few hours to a day after the session. It is especially important to follow the pre-session protocol after being briefed by the professionals in the field.