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What Is Selective Photothermolysis?
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What Is Selective Photothermolysis?

Selective photothermolysis is a scientific concept that forms the basis for laser hair removal and various other cosmetic laser procedures. It involves using light energy to specifically heat and damage targeted areas, such as hair follicles or pigmented lesions, while leaving the surrounding tissue intact.

How Does Selective Photothermolysis Work in Laser Hair Removal?

In the context of laser hair removal, the laser produces a focused beam of light that is absorbed by the melanin (pigment) present in the hair shaft and follicle. This absorption transforms light into heat, which damages the follicle and hinders its ability to generate new hair. The accuracy of selective photothermolysis ensures that only the intended follicle is impacted, while the adjacent skin remains unharmed.

Since hair grows in cycles, several sessions are required to effectively treat follicles during their active growth phase (the anagen phase), when they have the highest melanin content and are most responsive to laser energy.

The choice of laser wavelengths plays a crucial role in the effectiveness and safety of laser hair removal, as it must be tailored to each person’s skin type. SEV Laser employs high-quality dual-wavelength lasers machines, the Candela GentleMax Pro and Cynosure Elite iQ, which utilize both Alexandrite (755 nm) and Nd:YAG (1064 nm) wavelengths.

The Alexandrite laser (755 nm) is particularly effective for individuals with lighter skin tones (Fitzpatrick I-III) due to its strong absorption by melanin. Conversely, the Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) is more suitable for darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) because its longer wavelength can penetrate deeper, past the melanin-containing layers of the skin, minimizing the risk of hyperpigmentation or burns. This level of precision allows SEV to safely and effectively treat all skin tones while optimizing hair reduction.

Other Aesthetic Treatments Using Selective Photothermolysis

Beyond laser hair removal, selective photothermolysis is also utilized in other cosmetic laser treatments, including:

  • Tattoo removal – Targets ink pigments to break them down for natural elimination.
  • Pigmentation correction – Addresses sunspots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation.
  • Vascular lesion treatment – Reduces visible blood vessels, such as spider veins or broken capillaries.

Why SEV Laser?

SEV is committed to providing state-of-the-art laser hair removalwith industry-leading technology and highly trained specialists. Whether you’re looking for smooth skin or another advanced laser procedure, our expert team ensures safe, effective treatments at fair, transparent pricing.SEV Selective Photothermolysis lhr