Which option best describes the relationship between laser and hair follicle growth?

The relationship between laser and hair follicle growth is best described by the assertion that laser inhibits hair follicle growth. Laser hair removal works by targeting the melanin pigment in hair follicles with specific wavelengths of light. This energy is absorbed by the pigment, which leads to heating of the follicle, ultimately damaging its ability to produce new hair effectively. Thus, over time and with repeated treatments, the laser effectively reduces hair density and can lead to long-term hair reduction or even permanent removal.

This mechanism relies on the principle of selective photothermolysis, where the laser selectively destroys the hair follicle while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. This contrasts with the other options, which do not accurately represent the effects of laser treatment on hair follicles. For instance, claiming that laser stimulates faster hair growth is fundamentally incorrect, as the process is designed precisely to hinder growth. Stating that there is no effect on hair follicles overlooks the established scientific basis for how laser hair removal works, while suggesting that laser only affects the skin ignores its targeted action on hair follicles beneath the skin surface.