Laser technology has come a long way over the decades, having made
leaps from science fiction to science fact within the medical field,
manufacturing, and even as a "death star" beam
to help unlock the mysteries of the universe. But the latest
laser-enabled concept is something the average consumer can more readily
appreciate. The Skarp Razor may become the first-ever personal shaving
tool powered by a laser.
The common means of hair-removal generally
involves sharp steel blades, a layer of shaving cream, and water to
rinse. Although this method has worked for generations, the team members
behind the Skarp Razor believe it's possible that the same can be done
with lasers. They claim that the Skarp can provide close and smooth
shaves without the scratches, cuts, burns, or skin irritation that
hazard our traditional shaving routines.
Prototypes of the Skarp are constructed out
of 6061 aluminum with the familiar look of shaving razors. But instead
of an edge of steel, the Skarp uses a single fiber optic wielding a
low-power, class 1 laser. Morgan Gustavsson, who is experienced in the
field of medical and cosmetic lasers, states that his reasearch has led
to the discovery of a chromophore in human hair that can be cut/broken
when hit with a particular wavelength of light. The Skarp Razor is
designed to target those specific molecules upon contact, safely
removing the hair without a high-powered laser output or any lasting
effects.
Unlike some other methods of laser hair
removal, the Skarp Razor does not heat up or melt hair, eliminating
burns or offensive smells. It is supposed to work like a blade, cutting
any color of hair against all skin types (e.g. sensitive, acne, uneven)
and pigments, regardless of age, gender, or race. And given how the
Skarp could be equipped and powered by a single rechargeable AAA
battery, it has the potential to greatly reduce the waste associated
with disposable razors, blade cartridges, and shaving cream canisters.
The Skarp Razor is supported by a patent and
given our modern understanding of medical science and technology, it
seems quite possible for it to go from design to reality. But one likely
hurdle will be execution. In order to succeed in the eye of many
backers, the Skarp Razor will have to cut hair with similar speed and
efficacy as of standard steel blades, all with a laser that can safely
operate off a single AAA battery for up to a month of standard use. Some
beards and stubble get pretty darn thick, and it's yet to be seen how
well the Skarp handles such manliness.
The Skarp Laser Razor is currently funding on
Kickstarter, having raised 265 percent of its US$160,000 goal in just
four days, with another 23 days left to go. Those interested in joining
the ranks of backers on this project can pledge $159 for a single Skarp
Razor, which is planned to retail for over $200.
If the tooling, production, clinical testing
(very likely requiring FDA approval if it's to be classified as a
medical device), and quality control go according to schedule, backers
can expect shipments (certain countries only) to start sometime March.
Source: Click here
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