ABSTRACT:

Recent clinical trials have underscored the possibility of using light to selectively destroy hair follicles. Although there are many systems in various configurations, at present, the procedure has not resulted in predictable permanent follicular destruction of and entire operative field. Permanent removal that does occur using these systems appears to be a result of multiple treatment sessions. In this article we will examine the biological and physics bases of laser hair removal. The first section gives and overview of the anatomy and biology of the follicle, particularly within the context of designing optimal laser parameters for effective laser hair removal. The second section deals primarily with physical considerations but constantly attempts to relate optical-thermal phenomena of light-base hair epilation to the unique anatomic and physiologic features of the hair follicle.