In this week's episode, Mike and Lisa look into the intriguing relationship between waxing and laser hair removal treatments. They explore the traditional belief that waxing should be avoided before laser treatments due to the risk of removing the hair target, but Mike presents a compelling argument based on the biology of hair growth phases. They discuss the importance of melanin in targeting hair follicles and suggest that waxing may actually enhance the effectiveness of laser treatments by reducing pain and minimizing harmful plume exposure for operators.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Traditionally, it has been advised not to wax before laser treatments because waxing removes the hair, which is the target for laser energy. However, recent discussions suggest that waxing may not be as detrimental as previously thought, and could potentially be beneficial.
The hair growth cycle consists of three main phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting). Only hairs in the anagen phase can be effectively targeted by laser treatments, as they contain melanin, which is necessary for the laser to work.
Melanin is the target chromophore for laser hair removal. While it is typically found in the hair shaft, significant amounts of melanin are also present at the base of the hair follicle, which can be targeted even if the visible hair is not dark or fully developed.
Waxing can reduce pain during laser treatments by removing visible hair that could generate heat and discomfort. Additionally, it minimizes the amount of plume (burnt tissue) released into the air, which can be harmful to both clients and operators.
There is speculation that waxing may help synchronize hair growth cycles, leading to more effective laser treatments. However, more research and real-life examples are needed to confirm this theory and determine the best protocols for combining waxing and laser treatments.
BEST MOMENTS
"So the interesting thing that I realised while studying all this was that the new hair shaft is growing or starts to grow in anagen 3. It's not fully melanised until late in anagen 3."
"So, any hair we can see that's not in catagen or telogen must be in late anagen. And that's good for us."
"If you hit those with laser IPL light, it makes no difference. If it's an anagen, it means the follicle is already in the subcutis, in the fatty tissue."
"If you wax them before you do the treatment, then immediately after the treatment, there's no visible hairs at all."
"So I suspect that if you were to wax and then treat with laser IPL, you'd probably have a hair-free environment for quite some time."
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru.
Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.
Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining
https://mikemurphyblog.com
https://www.dermalasetraining.com