What Is The History of Laser Hair Removal?

How long has laser hair removal been around? A quick look at its evolution

Laser hair removal is one of the most popular methods for removing unwanted hair, but did you know that its technology has only been around since the 1960s? Here’s a brief look at how modern laser hair removal came to be and how it has evolved into the effective, safe procedure we know today.

When were lasers first invented?

The idea of using lasers for hair removal started back in 1960 when physicist Theodore Maiman invented the first laser designed to destroy hair follicles. This laser, known as a ruby laser, wasn’t nearly as sophisticated as the technology we use today, but it was a crucial step forward. Maiman’s invention was based on Albert Einstein’s theories and an earlier device called the maser (Microwave Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation).

While Maiman’s ruby laser showed promise, it wasn’t perfect. The technology was slow, inefficient, and caused severe skin burns. Plus, it could only target a small number of hair follicles at a time, making the process incredibly tedious.

The rise of other laser types

Over the years, laser technology improved. In 1964, researchers Joseph E. Geusic and Richard G. Smith developed the YAG laser, which was FDA-approved for hair removal. While it helped reduce hair growth, it didn’t create permanent results. Then, in the 1970s, the alexandrite laser was developed. It was safer than the ruby and YAG lasers, but it still didn’t destroy hair follicles effectively, as it couldn’t heat them enough for long-term removal.

Throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, scientists also discovered that certain lasers worked better on different skin tones. This led dermatologist Dr. Thomas B. Fitzpatrick to develop a skin color classification system still used today to determine the most suitable laser treatments for different skin types.

Breakthroughs in the 1980s

In 1983, scientists finally made a breakthrough: they developed a laser with a pulse duration that could target hair follicles without harming the surrounding skin. This was a significant advancement, paving the way for more effective and safer treatments. Still, it wasn’t until the early 1990s that laser hair removal technology saw real improvements.

The modern era of laser hair removal

Enter Dr. Richard Rox Anderson and Dr. Melanie Grossman, who conducted groundbreaking research on laser hair removal at Harvard Medical School. In the early ’90s, they perfected the ruby laser’s intensity and duration, making it safer and more effective. Their work led to the FDA approving the ruby laser for hair removal in 1997.

Laser hair removal today

Modern laser hair removal technology is a world away from the early versions. Today’s lasers, like the Cynosure Apogee Elite used at LaserAway, can reduce hair growth by up to 80% and provide longer-lasting results. They’re also much safer, with lasers like the ND:YAG making it possible to treat patients with darker skin tones—something earlier lasers couldn’t do. Thanks to more precise and controlled pulse rates, the treatment is less painful, and there’s a lower risk of damage to the skin and surrounding follicles.

What’s more, laser hair removal has become more affordable and accessible than ever before. And while it’s important to choose an experienced provider, like LaserAway, who uses only the most advanced technology, the results are well worth it.

Why choose LaserAway for your hair removal treatment?

When it comes to laser hair removal, experience counts. LaserAway offers consultations to discuss your goals, and we use only the most innovative laser technology, ensuring the best possible results for all skin types. With our Cynosure Apogee Elite, we can help you achieve smooth, hair-free skin safely and effectively.

Laser hair removal has come a long way, and if you’re ready to say goodbye to shaving and waxing, we’re here to help. Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation with us today!

References

1. “Beauty and the Geek: The Engineering Behind Laser Hair Removal,” Illumin Magazine, November 26, 2012.
2. “Comparing Traditional and in Motion Nd:YAG Laser in Hair Removal: A Prospective Study,” Medicina, September 2, 2022.