Laser hair removal has become one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures in Australia, offering a long-term solution to unwanted hair. Unlike temporary methods such as shaving or waxing that only address hair at the surface level, laser hair removal targets the root cause by destroying hair follicles with precise light technology. This medical-grade treatment delivers permanent hair reduction for most patients, with results that improve progressively over the course of treatment.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a medical aesthetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to reduce hair growth. The laser device emits light at a specific wavelength that penetrates the skin and is absorbed by melanin the pigment responsible for hair color—within the hair follicle.
When this light is absorbed, it converts to thermal energy, which damages the follicle’s structure at a cellular level. This disruption gradually reduces hair growth, leading to finer regrowth until hair production eventually stops in many follicles.
The effectiveness of treatment depends on the hair growth cycle. Hair is most vulnerable during the Anagen phase, the active growth stage when melanin concentration is highest. Since only a portion of hair is in this phase at a time, multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart are necessary to target all follicles.
How Laser Hair Removal Works
Laser hair removal works using selective photothermolysis, a technique that allows lasers to target hair follicles without harming surrounding skin. The laser emits light at wavelengths typically between 694nm and 1064nm, which melanin in the hair absorbs.
The light energy travels down the hair shaft into the follicle, converting to heat that reaches 60-70°C. This heat destroys the follicle’s stem cells and blood supply, preventing new hair growth. Advanced cooling systems protect the skin while the follicle is disabled.
Hair Growth Cycle and Treatment Effectiveness
Understanding hair growth cycles is key for optimal results. Hair grows in three stages:
- Anagen (Growth Phase): Hair is actively growing, deeply rooted, and rich in melanin. This phase is most responsive to laser treatment.
- Catagen (Transition Phase): Hair detaches slightly from the follicle. Laser is partially effective.
- Telogen (Resting Phase): Hair is dormant and minimally responsive to laser.
Most patients require six to eight sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to ensure all follicles are treated during their growth phases.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Laser hair removal is safe when performed by trained professionals using medical-grade equipment. Treatments have been widely used for decades and millions of procedures are performed globally each year.
Common side effects are mild and temporary, such as redness, swelling, tenderness, or slight itching. Some patients may feel a sensation similar to a snap on the skin during treatment, which modern cooling systems minimize.
Rare effects include temporary skin darkening or lightening, especially with darker skin tones or recent sun exposure. Burns or blistering are extremely rare, emphasizing the importance of qualified practitioners.
Types of Laser Technology
Australian clinics use several laser technologies:
- SHR (Super Hair Removal): Rapid, low-energy pulses gradually heat the dermis, suitable for all skin types and fine hair.
- Candela GentleLASE (Alexandrite): Wavelength 755nm, ideal for fair to medium skin, effective on coarse dark hair.
- Candela GentleYAG (Nd:YAG): Wavelength 1064nm, safe for darker skin tones, penetrates deeper for effective treatment.
- IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): Broad-spectrum light, less effective than lasers for permanent hair reduction.
- Diode Lasers: 800-810nm, suitable for various skin types, effective on dark hair with fast treatment capability.
Treatment Process
Initial Consultation: Assessment of skin type, hair color, medical history, and expectations. Small test patch may be done.
Pre-Treatment Preparation: Shave the area 1-2mm, ensure skin is clean, avoid tanning and caffeine, wear comfortable clothing.
During the Treatment: Eyes are protected, cooling gel may be applied, laser pulses delivered over the area. Sensation is warm with slight snaps. Treatment duration varies: upper lip 5-10 minutes, underarms 10-15, Brazilian 20-30, legs 45-90, back/chest 30-60.
Immediate Post-Treatment: Area may appear pink, similar to mild sunburn. Soothing creams and aftercare instructions are provided. Next appointment scheduled 4-8 weeks later.
Hair Shedding Phase: Hair gradually pushes out over 1-3 weeks. Gentle exfoliation may help. Avoid plucking or waxing.
Between Sessions: Shaving is allowed, but avoid hair removal methods that remove the follicle.
Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
- Long-Term Hair Reduction: Most patients experience 70-90% permanent hair reduction after completing their sessions.
- Smoother Skin: Skin becomes refined, eliminating stubble and uneven texture caused by shaving or waxing.
- Reduction of Ingrown Hairs: Follicles are disabled, preventing painful ingrown hairs and bumps.
- Time and Cost Savings: Reduces the need for frequent shaving, waxing appointments, and depilatory products over time.
- Precision: Modern lasers target coarse hair without damaging surrounding skin.
- Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Less irritation compared to repeated shaving or waxing.
Advanced Hair Removal Device
Many clinics, including Aesthetics Consult, use devices like the TriLux FAC SHR, which combines advanced Super Hair Removal technology with comfort and efficiency. This medical-grade system uses rapid, low-energy pulses to gradually heat the dermis, effectively disabling hair follicles with minimal discomfort.
The device is suitable for all skin types and can safely treat multiple areas including legs, arms, underarms, and Brazilian regions. Patients benefit from consistent results across sessions, reduced side effects, and shorter treatment times, making it a reliable option for professional hair removal.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is a medically proven method for long-term hair reduction, suitable for a wide range of skin types and body areas. By targeting melanin in the hair follicle through selective photothermolysis, the procedure effectively reduces hair growth over multiple sessions. Modern devices, including SHR, GentleLASE, GentleYAG, and the TriLux FAC SHR used by Aesthetics Consult, have expanded the possibilities for safe and efficient hair removal. Choosing a qualified clinic and following recommended treatment schedules ensures optimal results and a smoother, hair-free experience.