Permanent laser hair removal

Laser therapy for the treatment of unwanted hair is a technology that, through the emission of light energy at a specific wavelength, targets the desired structure (the melanin in the hair) in a selective manner without damaging the surrounding tissues. This mechanism is known as the principle of selective photothermolysis.

In our practice, we use a latest‑generation laser that combines two of the most effective technologies for permanent hair removal: Alexandrite (755 nm) and Nd:YAG (1064 nm). The ability to alternate or combine these two laser sources allows safe and effective treatments even on tanned skin or particularly dark phototypes (IV–V).

The laser is very safe and effective for the permanent removal of unwanted hair on all body areas, including the upper lip, chin, legs, bikini area, and underarms. In men, it is also suitable for larger areas such as the back, chest, and nape. Multiple body areas can be treated during the same session.

• The hairs contain a pigment (melanin) that absorbs the emitted light and converts it into heat. The hair shaft acts as a conductor, transmitting this heat to the follicle and permanently altering its structure, thereby preventing the growth of new hair.

Initially, the eyes are protected with special goggles. No anesthesia is required, as the treatment is well tolerated and generally causes only mild discomfort or a slight burning sensation. After carefully assessing the skin type and hair characteristics, the practitioner treats the desired area using an applicator of approximately 2 cm in surface area, which allows for fast and safe procedures. The sensitivity of each hair to the laser energy varies depending on its stage in the hair growth cycle: **anagen** (growth phase), **telogen** (resting phase), and **catagen** (regression phase). For effective permanent hair removal, the laser must target the hair during its anagen phase. Since the hairs in any given body area are not all in the same phase at the same time, multiple sessions are required every **4–6 weeks (28–40 days)** to eliminate all hairs that enter the anagen phase in that specific region. Results may vary from patient to patient depending on skin color, the area being treated, and the color and thickness of the hair. Up to **8 sessions** may be needed to achieve a progressively permanent reduction of hair. It is not not effective on light‑colored or white hair..

It is essential **not to remove hair with waxing, tweezers, or epilators** during the **4 to 6 weeks** before the treatment, because the hair must be present inside the follicle for the session to be effective. Shaving with a razor is allowed, but only **up to 3 days before** the session. It is also crucial to **avoid direct sun exposure and UVA lamps** for **30 days before and 30 days after** the treatment, to prevent overstimulation of melanin and the possible formation of post‑treatment pigmentation spots. For this reason, it is important to protect the skin by using a **sunscreen with SPF higher than 30**.

After the treatment, the skin becomes more sensitive and red, symptoms that disappear spontaneously within a few hours.

È rara ma possibile la formazione di minuscole macchie scure o chiare residuali post-laser, ma che si risolvono spontaneamente nel tempo.

It is  possible to apply makeup immediately after the treatment.

Yes. Pregnancy and any active infection in the area to be treated. 

Since many medications are photosensitizing, meaning they increase the skin’s absorption of light, it is essential to inform the practitioner if you are undergoing any medical therapy.