Topical application of chromophores for hair removal

Abstract

A device and method is disclosed for permanent or semi-permanent removal of hair through the activation of microparticles introduced into hair follicles. Microparticles are incorporated into a composition that is topically applied to the skin. These microparticles containing or consisting of chromophores or chemically activated molecules are of a variety of shapes and sizes. Microparticles are within a size range of 1 micron to 70 microns, and preferably between 10 and 50 microns. Microparticles of this size and variety of shapes enter hair follicles on all areas of the skin without entering other areas of the skin, such as the stratum corneum or sweat gland channels. Treatment of the skin with electromagnetic radiation, ultrasonic radiation or chemical means activates the chromophore or chemically activated compounds, thus destroying the hair follicle without damaging other areas of the skin. In another embodiment, microparticles further contain nanoparticles released further into the hair follicle by use of a solvent or other method, allowing chromophores or chemically activated molecules to penetrate deeper into the follicle and avoid structures such as the sebaceous gland.