Abstract: An apparatus and method for hair depilation using a beam of light, preferably a scanned continuous output diode laser beam, operating primarily in a range of wavelengths from 650-1000 nanometers is disclosed. The beam of light is focused by a handpiece such that the power density and energy density of the beam is sufficient for selective coagulation of dermal melanosomes and destruction of hair follicles adjacent to melanosomes. The beam is directed over the treatment area by any type of motorized mirror and lens-based scanning device such that the duration of exposure to the treatment area is limited to a fixed time interval according to the velocity of the beam moving across the treatment area, or a specified dwell time whereby the scanned beam is held at each position in the scan for a specified time duration, preferably in a pseudo-random sequence. The scanner connects to a contact member, at least a portion of which is held in contact with the skin, to provide a fixed focus and surface contact cooling.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for laser-assisted hair transplantation preferably utilizes a CW mode CO.sub.2 laser, which may already have been installed in a surgeon's office, and a flashscanner to scan the laser over the area of holes to be drilled, thereby minimizing thermal necrosis on the recipient walls or slits. Optionally, a computer controls the laser/flashscanner assembly to redirect the beam from hole to hole, so as to rapidly drill a plurality of uniformly spaced holes. Advantageously, the time duration of the laser procedure is not limited, but depends instead on the CW laser power level parameters and the focal length selected for the procedure, thereby affording the surgeon significant flexibility in choosing appropriate treatment parameters.