Why is an Nd:YAG laser used in laser hair removal?

The laser emits pulses absorbed mainly by pigment in the hair shaft and follicle. Heat travels into the follicle and can impair its ability to produce a new hair. Nd:YAG light has a longer wavelength than some other hair-removal lasers, so it can be selected when the clinician wants deeper delivery and less absorption by the skin’s surface pigment.

Hair grows in cycles, and only some follicles are in a responsive phase at a given visit. That is why a treatment plan uses repeat sessions rather than expecting every hair to respond at once. Hair colour, thickness, hormonal factors, skin tone, and recent tanning all affect the plan.

Avoid plucking or waxing for the period advised by the clinic because the follicle needs to remain present for the laser to target it. Tell the clinician about tanning, medicines, pigment changes, cold sores, and previous reactions. After treatment, protect the area from sunlight, avoid irritating products until the skin settles, and follow instructions about shaving and moisturising. Mild warmth or redness can occur; report symptoms that intensify.

Contact the clinic for blistering, crusting, severe pain, spreading redness, or lightening or darkening that is worsening rather than settling. Seek prompt advice for signs of infection such as increasing warmth, swelling, pus, or fever. Eye exposure, visual symptoms, or a severe allergic reaction require urgent medical attention.

Ask why Nd:YAG is suitable for your skin and hair, whether a test spot is needed, how shaving should be timed, what cooling will be used, and how your response will be judged. Ask about sun protection and medicines that may change your sensitivity.