The Science Behind Laser Hair Removal (And Why It Works):

At Contoured Med Spa, we know that laser hair removal isn’t just about smooth skin — it’s about understanding how and why the technology works so effectively. If you’re curious about the science behind this popular treatment and why it produces lasting results, read on!

Laser Resurfacing

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses bursts of concentrated light to target unwanted hair in specific areas of the body like the underarms, legs, bikini line, or face. Unlike shaving or waxing — which only remove hair temporarily — laser hair removal works beneath the skin’s surface to inhibit future hair growth.

How Laser Technology Targets Hair

At the heart of laser hair removal is a scientific principle called Selective Photothermolysis. Let’s break that down:

🔬 1. Targeting the Pigment (Melanin)

Hair contains a pigment called melanin, which gives hair its color. The laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is absorbed by melanin. Because dark hair has more melanin than surrounding skin, the laser energy is preferentially taken up by the hair, not the skin.

Once the melanin absorbs the light, that energy transforms into heat — a process known as photothermolysis. The heat travels down the hair shaft and into the follicle, where hair growth is triggered.

🔥 2. Heat Damages the Follicle

When enough heat accumulates in the hair follicle, it damages the cells that fuel hair growth. Over time (and with multiple treatments), this damage can permanently reduce the follicle’s ability to grow hair.

Because the laser focuses on pigment, this method works best on darker hair. Lighter hairs have less melanin, which makes it harder for the laser to “see” and absorb the energy. But technology continues to evolve to address a wider range of hair and skin types.

Hair Growth Cycles: Why Multiple Sessions Matter

You might wonder why one session isn’t enough. That’s because hair doesn’t grow all at once. It follows a cycle:

• Anagen (Growth Phase): Hair is actively growing and rich in melanin — ideal for laser treatment.

• Catagen (Transitional Phase): Growth slows and follicles shrink.

• Telogen (Resting Phase): Hair is dormant and not susceptible to laser energy.

Only hairs in the anagen phase are vulnerable to laser treatment. At any given time, only a percentage of hairs are in this stage. That’s why laser hair removal is typically done in a series of sessions spaced over several weeks — to catch as many hairs in the growth phase as possible.

Why Laser Hair Removal Is Long-Lasting

Because the laser directly damages the hair follicle’s ability to produce hair, many patients see permanent hair reduction after a full treatment course. Hair that does regrow is often finer and lighter than before.

Plus, laser hair removal at Contoured Med Spa is customized to your hair and skin type — meaning our skilled professionals choose the best settings and technology for your needs, enhancing both safety and results.

Quick Takeaways: Why Laser Hair Removal Works

✅ Targets hair at the root, not just the surface.
✅ Uses pigment absorption to convert light into heat.
✅ Damages follicle to inhibit future growth.
✅ Works best in the growth phase of hair life cycle.
✅ Most effective on darker hair (though technology continues to improve).

Ready to Experience the Difference?

If you’re tired of daily shaving or painful waxing, laser hair removal at Contoured Med Spa may be your best option for long-lasting smoothness.

👉 Schedule a consultation today and let our team guide you through how laser hair removal works specifically for your skin and hair type. We’ll walk you through your treatment plan and answer all your questions with science-backed expertise.