How does hair color impact the efficacy of laser hair removal?

The effectiveness of laser hair removal is significantly influenced by hair color due to the principle of selective photothermolysis. Darker hair contains higher concentrations of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for the color of the hair. When a laser is applied, the energy emitted is absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicles. Therefore, darker hair absorbs more laser energy, allowing for more effective destruction of the follicles during the treatment. This increased absorption translates to better outcomes in terms of hair reduction and longer-lasting results compared to lighter hair, which contains less melanin and absorbs less energy from the laser. The specific wavelengths of lasers used for hair removal are precisely calibrated to target the melanin, optimizing the procedure for patients with darker hair.