Laser and photoepilation: causes of complications and side effects

The presence of unwanted hair is a problem for many people who are not satisfied with the long-standing methods of removing it (shaving, waxing and chemical depilation, electrolysis) due to short-term results, or severe pain, or frequent complications (for example, scarring after electrolysis). The invention of selective photothermolysis and the creation of various laser systems with different wavelength ranges have made effective and long-term hair removal possible. Today, several types of laser and photosystems are used for hair removal: ruby ​​laser (694 nm), alexandrite laser (755 nm), diode laser (800 nm), IPL systems (590-1200 nm), Nd: YAG laser (1064 nm).

Epilation occurs as a result of the destruction of the hair follicle, where the main pigment is melanin, which acts as a chromophore - a substance that absorbs laser radiation with a certain wavelength. With the optimal selection of energy flow density and pulse duration, the melanin in the hair follicle heats up and the hair bulb is destroyed. The surrounding tissues are not damaged.

Full version of the access article in Ukrainian