The laser emits coherent, very powerful monochromatic light, meaning a single wavelength.
The laser beam is absorbed by black or brown colors: this means only dark hairs can be treated. Currently, no machine can remove blond or gray hairs!
All body areas can be treated.
Hair cycles and sessions
Not all hairs grow simultaneously – you only see some. Others are in resting phase, which can last several months. The session only affects hairs in growth phase (anagen), and to exhaust a zone’s hair potential, multiple treatments over 12-18 months are needed. 6-8 (sometimes 10) sessions may be required to destroy 95% of hairs. Since the bulb is our target, waxing or tweezing is prohibited during treatment. However, skin must be clean – shaved (or depilatory cream) 1-2 days before each session. Post-session, moisturizing or anti-inflammatory cream (Flammazine© or Biafine©) is recommended.
Treatment schedule
Depends on regrowth, treated area and initial hairiness. Typical plan:
- 4 weeks between 1st and 2nd session
- 4-6 weeks between 2nd and 3rd session
- 6-8 weeks between subsequent sessions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a laser?
L.A.S.E.R. stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Laser is light – single color defined by its wavelength. Laser light penetrates epidermis and dermis to target hair melanin (color). When hit, the target absorbs this light converted to heat: this thermal effect destroys the hair. To destroy hair (especially its root/bulb), we must act during growth phase (anagen) when hair shaft is still rooted and melanin concentration is densest. Since hairs aren’t synchronized, multiple sessions are needed.
The laser is medical equipment adjusted per patient’s skin type and hair color. It emits precise light targeting melanin (hair component). This light penetrates skin (protected by cooling system) to reach follicles and impair hair production. Your skin is respected. We use an Alexandrite laser.
Benefits of laser hair removal?
After main treatment, over 90% permanent reduction across body – real life comfort. Some areas (armpits, bikini) often achieve 100% permanent reduction. Remaining hairs become lighter and finer. All facial and body areas treatable for both women and men.
Excellent therapy for ingrown hairs or hypertrichosis.
How many sessions? Frequency?
Each person has unique hair characteristics, so session numbers vary. Typically 6-10 sessions for most areas (more for face!). Intervals vary by person/area: ~4 weeks between 1st-2nd session, 4-6 weeks between 2nd-3rd, then 6-8 weeks.
Contraindications?
Absolute: pregnancy, tanning, children. Caution needed for dark skin and photosensitizing treatments. Laser cannot remove bleached/white hairs. Relative contraindications: wounds, infections, inflammation, photosensitizing medications.
Essential:
Skin must be untanned during each treatment. Specifically, skin MUST NOT BE EXPOSED to SUN or TANNING BEDS for at least 12 weeks before and 4 weeks after each session. Walking, cycling, gardening count as sun exposure! Always protect skin with total sunblock (SPF50+).
Post-treatment effects?
Immediately after: skin reddens slightly with normal minor swelling at each hair base – proof of effective treatment. Lasts few hours, eased by Flammazine/Biafine application.
Laser hair removal is discreet (even on face) – makeup can be applied immediately. Temporary pigmentation changes may occur on dark skin, disappearing with first sun exposure.
Is it dangerous?
Laser cannot cause cancer; however, avoid treating nevi and “brown spots”. Medical lasers have specific uses – main risk is skin burns. Properly calibrated lasers don’t burn skin while remaining effective. Treatment quality depends entirely on the PHYSICIAN’S expertise.
Is it painful?
Treatment involves pulses causing tingling/mild burning sensations – comparable to rubber band snaps. Most tolerate it without anesthesia. Topical anesthetic cream is available. Minutes after, skin turns pink with temporary sunburn-like sensation.
How does laser hair removal differ from other methods?
Laser simultaneously treats large areas quickly, provides longer-lasting results, and progressively impairs hair regrowth.
Who can get laser hair removal?
Anyone meeting above criteria wanting freedom from traditional hair removal or unsightly hairs. Both men and women. Beyond time/money savings, laser effectively solves ingrown hair problems (common in bikini area and male beards).
Is it expensive?
Depends on treatment areas. Consider it an investment.
Contraindications:
- Absolute: children, pregnancy, tanning
- Relative: wounds, infections, inflammation, photosensitizing medications
Aesthetic treatments aren’t covered by social security.
Skin MUST be untanned during each laser session. NO sun/UV exposure (tanning beds etc.) for minimum 12 weeks before and 4 weeks after each treatment. Walking, cycling, sports, gardening count as sun exposure! Always use total sunblock (SPF50+).
Arriving tanned despite these instructions means we cannot treat you. We’d then have to charge 50% of planned treatment cost as compensation for reserved time.
Cancellation policy:
– Under 30min treatments: 72h notice
– Over 30min treatments: 1 week notice
PHOTOS
While treatment result photos are widely available online, their display is now prohibited by the Belgian Medical Association and law. During consultation, we’ll provide personalized visual references to evaluate potential outcomes.
Want customized advice? Schedule a consultation.
