When you go for laser hair removal, there are plenty of things you should look into. One is the type of laser used, but you should also ask about the particulars of the laser and how it is going to work. Even if you do not know a lot about laser hair removal, learning how it works can put you at ease as you learn just how safe this procedure is. The clinic you talk to will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Some other things that you should ask about when you are with a laser hair technician are:

1. Pulse width: This is the length of the pulse width or wavelength used on you. Studies have found that if longer pulse widths are used, it is safer for darker skin than lighter skin. Short wavelengths are also the most effective at removing hair. Therefore, if you have light skin, they will use a shorter pulse width and it will not take as long to remove the hair. The longer pulse width is safer for darker skin, but will take longer to work.
2. Spot Size: This is the width of the laser beam. The most ideal beam width will have a width that is four times as wide as the target is deep. Most laser hair removals will have a spot size of about eight to 18 millimeters. The larger the spot size is, the more efficient it is and the faster the laser hair removal treatment will work.
3. Energy Level: This is the energy of the laser measured in joules per square centimeters. The higher the energy level, the more damage that is done to the follicle and the quicker it is going to fall out, which then shortens the length of time between treatments.
4. Repetition Rate: This is how fast pulses are shot at a target. The faster the pulses, the higher the kill rate on follicles. Most laser hair removal systems will shoot about two to three pulses in a row before a delay.
5. Cooling System: This is very important because the cooling system is what keeps your skin from being burned. There are several types of cooling systems that clinics use, including:
   1. Clear Gel: This is cold gel applied to your skin to act as a buffer, but it limits the effectiveness of the laser hair removal.
   2. Contact Cooling: A window of circulating water is in front of the laser to cool the beam before it hits your skin.
   3. Cryogen Spray: This is used before and after each pulse and can add a lot of time to your laser hair removal treatment session.
   4. Air Cooling: This is the forced cooling of the laser beam by shooting it through -34 degree Celsius air. This is the most effective option because the air does not impede the laser, only cools it.

Asking these questions about laser hair removal can put you more at ease when you are worried about the process. Your technician will be more than happy to answer them for you.

Make sure to read our FAQs and laser hair removal articles before going for a laser hair removal session.