What is the typical wavelength range for effective laser hair removal?

The typical wavelength range for effective laser hair removal falls between 755 nm and 1064 nm. This range is significant because it encompasses the wavelengths commonly used in various laser systems tailored for hair removal procedures.

Different wavelengths target the melanin in the hair follicles, which is essential for the laser's effectiveness; the longer wavelengths penetrate deeper into the skin, making them suitable for a diverse range of skin types while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissues. For instance, the Alexandrite laser operates at approximately 755 nm, which is effective for lighter skin tones, while the Nd:YAG laser at around 1064 nm is favored for darker skin tones due to its deeper penetration and lower absorption by melanin in the epidermis.

Wavelengths outside this range, such as those proposed in the other options, either do not penetrate the skin effectively or do not target the melanin sufficiently for effective hair removal. This makes the selected range the most effective for a variety of skin types and hair colors in laser hair removal treatments.