Laser-assisted hair removal
Laser-assisted hair removal is a method available to achieve permanent reduction of unwanted hairs. The various lasers now most commonly available for hair removal are the alexandrite laser (755 nm), diode laser (810 nm), and Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm). These lasers target melanin and subsequently produce selective photothermolysis of the hair follicles. The longer wavelengths, such as with the 1064-nm Nd:Yag laser, are safer for darker skin types IV-VI. The risk for adverse events such as dyspigmentation, blistering, crusting, edema, and scarring is greater with darker skin types.
Intense pulsed light (IPL) sources for hair removal
Intense pulsed light (IPL) sources use the same principle of selective photothermolysis used with lasers to target melanin in hair follicles; however, a noncoherent filtered flashlamp that emits wavelengths ranging from 500-1200 nm is used in this process, rather than one wavelength. Different cutoff filters are used to select the appropriate wavelength for each patient;
Studies have shown that the hair removal efficiency rate (ie, percent of the number of hairs present compared with baseline counts) is best after 1-3 treatments. Adverse effects are minimal, and the hair removal efficiency rate achieved was 76% after a mean of 3.7 treatments.
Laser and IPL devices are also capable of treating a variety of conditions in addition to hair removal, including treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions, warts, wrinkles, and even acne.
Combined IPL RF technology
IPL (intense pulse light) and Rf (radio frequency) are technologies used in administering various medaesthetic treatments such as unwanted hair removal, getting rid of skin blemishes, improving the overall skin tone, feel and look (achieving healthier, younger looking skin) and much more.
Unlike IPL, RF is not attracted by melanin. IPL is used to act as a "path creator" for the RF energy allowing it to effectively reach the tissues it is directed at and deliver its warming effects.
When the water molecules in the dermis (underlying layer of the skin, below the top layer called the epidermis) are heated collagen production is stimulated resulting in tighter, younger looking skin.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis, also termed electrology, is an effective method for permanently removing hair, especially in small areas. Electrolysis involves the insertion of a small, fine needle into the hair follicle, followed by the firing of a pulse of electric current that damages and eventually destroys the hair follicle. Multiple treatment sessions are required to achieve a clinically significant result.