How Should the Hair Be for Laser Epilation?


Laser epilation works by targeting the color pigment called melanin at the roots of the hair. The laser light is absorbed by this pigment, turns into heat and the hair root is destroyed. Therefore, the type, color and length of the hair play a major role in the success of the treatment.

Hair Should Not Be Too Short or Too Long
The ideal length of the hair before laser epilation should generally be around 1-2 mm. This is a length that has been shaved but slightly protrudes from the skin surface. If the hair is too long, the laser light is wasted on the hair and cannot reach the root sufficiently. If it is too short (for example, freshly shaved), although the light reaches the root directly, the risk of skin irritation may increase. Therefore, it is most appropriate to shave one day before the application.

Hair Color and Thickness
Laser epilation gives the best results on dark and thick hair. Because the amount of melanin in these hairs is high and absorbs the laser light better. Since the melanin is low in light-colored, blonde, gray or white hairs, the laser light cannot be absorbed and the procedure is not effective.

No Root Removal
Methods that remove hair from the root, such as waxing, epilator or tweezers, should not be used at least 3-4 weeks before the laser session. Such procedures temporarily eliminate the hair root and the root structure, which is the target of the laser, disappears. As a result, the laser cannot be effective. Only shaving should be preferred during this process.

Visible Hair on the Skin is Enough
The hair does not have to be on the skin surface during the application; what is important is that the root is in place. The laser reaches the hair follicle under the skin and shows its effect there. Therefore, the situation of "hair is not visible but the root is inside" before laser epilation does not pose a problem.

In Conclusion
In order to get the maximum efficiency from laser epilation, the hair should be of appropriate length, natural color and not removed from the root. Applications performed under the most ideal conditions provide more permanent results in fewer sessions. Therefore, the condition and preparation of the hair before the procedure is as important as the laser.