What Laser Is Used for Hair Removal?

by Rebecca Laskowitz

Overview

Managing hair growth is a growing concern for men and women.

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Hair removal is becoming increasingly popular among men and women. Laser hair removal is one way to go about it---but there are certain things to know before spending money on this costly process.
Identification

Laser hair removal uses a pulsating beam of light to destroy hair follicles. The light beam passes through the skin to destroy the unwanted hair.

Function

Melanin is the dark pigment in hair that is targeted by the laser light. The intense heat from the light destroys the hair follicle.
Expert Insight

Because the laser is a prescription device, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says it must be operated by, or under the supervision of, a licensed practitioner.
Side Effects

The laser used in laser hair removal can cause side effects like blistering, swelling and scarring. Sunlight can also exacerbate these negative side effects.
FDA Approval

Laser manufacturers must have their lasers approved and cleared by the FDA. The FDA has set up a database containing the names of all lasers cleared for hair removal. To search the database, you need to know the manufacturer or device name of the laser.