In the early seventies the first laser-like devices selectively targeted individual follicles by delivering energy through a wire-thin fiber optic probe. These devices were marketed illegally as painless and permanent until the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) acted and proved they were ineffective for permanent hair removal. Similarly the early argon lasers were proven to be ineffective around this time.

Laser hair removal - First effective laser
In the UK the effective use of ruby laser light to remove unwanted hair was first discovered by Professor Marc Clement at the Swansea Institute in 1976. Professor Clement and his research associates investigated the use of lasers in plastic surgery to reduce hair re-growth in hirsute donor skin. The tests were successful.

The type of laser was named the Chromos 694 Ruby Laser and is manufactured by SLS Biophile Ltd. After extensive clinical trials Chromos 694 ruby laser was introduced into hospital environments within the NHS.

Laser hair removal - Several laser devices rushed to market
In 1997 the FDA cleared several types of devices that targeted melanin within the hair. However as with the earlier devices many were rushed to market without sufficient testing.

Since 1997 small design improvements to reduce pain and side effects have been made such as epidermal cooling. The publication of clinical testing conditions and results have led to further optimization.

Laser hair removal - Permanent hair reduction not removal
In 1998, the FDA began allowing some manufacturers of hair removal lasers to use the term "permanent hair reduction." FDA points out this is different than "permanent hair removal":

The FDA defines permanent hair reduction as:

The long-term, stable reduction in the number of hairs re growing after a treatment regime. The number of hairs re growing must be stable over a time greater than the duration of the complete growth cycle of hair follicles, which varies from 4-12 months according to body location. Permanent hair reduction does not necessarily imply the elimination of all hairs in the treatment area.

Laser hair removal - Still in the early stage of understanding
Currently the understanding of lasers and their long-term effects on hair and other skin structures is still in the early stages.