How is Laser Hair Removal Done?
Laser hair removal has become a widely used method for the permanent reduction of body and facial hair. It's an almost painless procedure that can benefit almost all skin types, even during summer, provided that certain rules are followed, including the necessary use of sunscreen.
It is based on the selective destruction of the hair follicle by the energy emitted by the laser machine. This energy is emitted at a specific wavelength (in nanometers) that is selectively absorbed by the melanocytes of the hair follicle, as the melanin they contain is the target for the wavelength of the machine.
Because the hair is darker than the surrounding skin and therefore has more melanin, the hair burns while the skin only heats up. This is where attention must be paid to tanned skin, as dark skin can also be a target and can lead to a superficial but annoying burn. In the case of tanning, reduced energy is required for safety, which often results in reduced effectiveness.
What is the recommended laser hair removal method?
Research has shown that Alexandrite (755nm) and Diode (Diode 808nm) lasers are the most effective, while Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is the least effective (Bibliography: Dermatology 2nd edition Bologna et al 2008, Chapter 137 Laser therapy, page 2015).
Some even question whether IPL leads to permanent hair removal. Greater effectiveness translates to fewer sessions and a more economical result. In our clinic, we have two state-of-the-art German-made laser hair removal machines, an Alexandrite (755nm) and a Diode (Diode 808nm), which allow us to choose the most suitable one for each case and to combine treatments.
Laser Hair Removal with Alexandrite
The Alexandrite laser is widespread and well-established in the Greek market and impresses with its ease in hair vaporization, bringing extremely fast results. Due to its shorter wavelength, it acts more superficially on the skin and is superior on lighter-colored skin and hair.
Laser Hair Removal with Diode Laser
The Diode laser, although widely used in America, is not as well known in Greece. The main reason we chose it, in addition to its excellent effectiveness, is its safety profile, as its longer wavelength allows it to act deeper, 'avoiding' melanin in the epidermis.
For this reason, it is safer compared to Alexandrite, especially in brunettes and during sunny periods. This allows us to continue hair removal even in the summer and to take on darker skin tones. Finally, especially in the bikini area and armpits, where the hair is usually darker and the follicles are deeper, the results are remarkable. Because it is an advanced technology, it hurts less than older Diode lasers and also achieves hair vaporization, something that no other Diode laser on the market achieves.
Another characteristic of our Diode laser is its high speed, allowing us to do hair removal on a back in just 10 minutes. Also, unlike other lasers, it has no consumables. These two factors contribute to low operating costs, allowing us to have very affordable prices for the results we provide.
In which cases is it recommended?
The use of lasers has revolutionized by providing a permanent solution to the problem of unwanted hair growth, which has been a concern for both women and men. We can now achieve permanent hair reduction on both body and face with controlled results. However, the effectiveness of treatments depends on certain factors, and when assessing each case, any hormonal disturbances should be taken into account, along with a realistic assessment of the expected outcome, explaining to the interested party that:
- The darker and thicker the hair, the more impressive the result, especially when combined with lighter skin tones.
- The lighter the hair color, the more challenging it is to achieve the desired result.
- The "peach fuzz" that occurs during laser hair removal can be activated by the machine and can become hair before the follicles are destroyed. If there is a hormonal problem, this is almost certain to happen.
- No new hair is created; rather, for some reason, these hairs synchronize their cycles and appear together.
- Repeat sessions will lead to a reduction in the number of hairs and achieve the desired goal.
- Package deals should be approached with caution, as the effectiveness of the machine, the settings, and the skill and thoroughness of the operator are factors that are not taken into account.
In which areas can it be applied?
Laser hair removal can essentially be applied to all areas of the body and face with absolute safety. However, it is characteristic that it is more effective in specific areas. For example, the underarms usually show the most significant response, while generally, the body responds better than the face, which often has more stubborn hair growth.
Is local anesthesia required?
The short answer is no. However, in some cases and in more sensitive areas, such as the bikini/genital area, the application of anesthetic cream 15 minutes to half an hour before laser treatment may be necessary.
Before Laser Hair Removal
Ideally, you should shave the area 1-2 days before our session. This way, all of the laser's energy is used to destroy the hair root, and it is not "wasted" on the shaft. Also, this causes less irritation to the area, as the hairs are not "singeing" on the skin. Thus, we achieve better results with less irritation. In areas where shaving is not used, such as the face, you can use depilatory creams. We trim the hair (with a trimmer) shortly before our session. Also, for maximum results, we advise against waxing 10 to 15 days before our session. Sun exposure should be avoided before the session, and if exposure is unavoidable, extensive use of sunscreen is necessary.
What should I watch out for after application?
Any irritation usually lasts for 2-3 days and often subsides on the same day. We recommend a shower with lukewarm-cool water in the area to lower the temperature, followed by the application of moisturizing and soothing creams frequently. Of course, sun exposure should be avoided, and if exposure is necessary, extensive use of sunscreen is essential.
What is the cost?
Current legislation for medical services does not allow the publication of application costs. We strive to provide services of the highest quality at very competitive prices. The space we provide for hair removal is isolated from the waiting area and also has a toilet/bathroom for your convenience.
Book a free consultation for information, evaluation, and price quote, for effective, safe, and economical hair removal, under the supervision of Dermatologists who set your parameters and readjust them after some sessions when necessary for the best results.
