What anatomical structures are targeted during laser hair removal?

During laser hair removal, the primary anatomical structures targeted are the hair follicles, specifically the bulb and bulge regions. The laser emits light that is absorbed by the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicles, converting the light energy into heat. This heat then damages the hair bulb, where hair growth begins, and the bulge area, which contains stem cells that are responsible for hair regeneration. By specifically targeting these areas, the laser can inhibit future hair growth effectively.

The hair shaft is not the target since the shaft is already above the skin and does not impact the growth cycle of the hair after being treated. Similarly, only the skin surface would not be sufficient for hair removal, as it does not address the roots where hair grows. Targeting the dermis and epidermis layers means treating deeper skin tissues, but these layers do not directly contribute to hair growth, making them less relevant in the context of effective hair removal. Thus, focusing on the follicle's bulb and bulge ensures that the treatment effectively disrupts the hair growth cycle.