Cosmetic dermatologists use lasers or xenon flash lamps to remove hair. This process is based in the idea that darker areas, such as the follicle (the area of the skin where a hair is produced), absorb radiation more readily than lighter areas. The laser destroys the follicle, resulting in long term (though not permanent) hair growth elimination. Boca Raton laser hair removal centers must provide several treatments to completely eliminate unwanted hair, because not all follicles on the skin are active at a given time. Also, the treatment doesn't work on patients with dark skin, for reasons explained above. Side effects of laser hair removal may include discoloration of the skin, swelling around the destroyed follicles, and purpura. Check out our laser hair removal Community Partners listed below.