Hair removal (Alexandrite laser - Nd-Yag laser)
To remember
Definition : Alexandrite laser 755 nm phototype 1 to 4 and Nd-Yag laser 1064 nm for phototypes 5 and 6.
Action : destruction of the hair bulb.
Contraindications : pregnant or breastfeeding women, sunburn, taking photosensitizing medication, self-tanning, waxing, tweezers or epilators.
Number of sessions : minimum 8 sessions and maintenance once a year.
Social eviction : none.
The different types of lasers used in the office
Alexandrite Laser: precision and effectiveness for light to medium skin
The Alexandrite laser is one of the most popular options for hair removal. It emits a 755 nm wavelength, which is particularly effective for treating dark hair on light to golden skin (phototypes I to IV). This wavelength targets the melanin in the hair follicle, transmitting heat that destroys the hair at its root without damaging the surrounding skin.
Alexandrite is particularly recommended for:
Dark hair on light to medium skin
Common areas : legs, bikini line, underarms, face, back, beard, etc.
Fast and painless hair removal
- Long-lasting results with a minimum of 8 sessions (10 for men) at a rate of 1 per month with a maintenance session per year
Yag laser: solution for darker skin
The Yag laser emits a deeper wavelength of 1064 nm, which is better suited for treating darker skin phototypes (phototypes IV to VI). This is because darker skin contains more melanin, which could lead to a risk of burns with shallower lasers like Alexandrite. The Yag laser is therefore a safer and more effective option for people with dark or tanned skin, as it penetrates deeper into the skin, targeting hair follicles while minimizing the risk of skin irritation.
The Yag laser is particularly recommended for:
Dark to very dark skin (phototypes IV to VI)
Thick, dark hair
Sensitive areas : back, chest, bikini line, etc.
- Safe hair removal : it allows the skin to be treated without the risk of burns or post-treatment pigmentation.
How does a laser hair removal session take place?
- Preliminary consultation : Before any session, a consultation is necessary to determine your skin phototype and your specific needs. The practitioner will then choose the most suitable type of laser (Alexandrite or Yag) and explain the protocol to follow.
- Treatment : On skin that has been shaved for 48 hours (hair removal is prohibited), the laser will be passed over the area to be treated. The light beam targets the hair follicle, and a slight sensation of heat is felt.
- Duration : A session lasts between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on the area to be treated. Larger areas, such as the legs or back.
- After the session : After the session, there may be slight redness or swelling, but this usually disappears within a few hours. It is advisable to avoid sun exposure for a few days and apply a soothing cream if necessary. The hair will not fall out until 6 to 10 days after the session.
Indications and results
Laser hair removal is effective on many areas of the body and face, and is suitable for all hair types, whether fine, medium or thick:
Face : chin, lips, cheeks, eyebrows, etc.
Body : armpits, legs, bikini line, arms, back, chest, etc.
- Specific areas : abdominal line, hands, feet, etc.
The results of laser hair removal are visible from the first sessions, but several sessions are necessary to achieve lasting results. Indeed, the laser only destroys hairs in the active growth phase, which explains the need for several sessions to treat all the hairs. On average, 8 sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart are necessary, depending on the area to be treated and skin type.
Results are long-lasting, with permanent hair reduction. However, annual maintenance may be recommended to maintain smooth, hair-free skin.
Contraindications
Laser hair removal is not recommended in certain cases:
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Very tanned or extremely dark skin (not indicated for the Yag laser)
Skin infections in the area to be treated
- Use of photosensitizing drugs