Laser Hair Removal: Separating Fact from Fiction.

The assertion that laser hair removal is painful is a misconception that deters many people from trying the technique. Like all other hair removal methods, it is clear that laser hair removal does cause some discomfort.

The intensity of the perceived discomfort depends on the sensitivity of the patient and the area to be treated. The thinner the skin, the more unpleasant the sensations, particularly in the bikini area.

However, there are techniques designed to reduce the sensation of burning. The use of cool air flow and numbing cream are, in particular, common practices.

Following the session, it is also recommended to hydrate the skin and to protect it imperatively from the sun. To do this, Typology offers you the body moisturising cream with 10 ingredients, of which 99% are of natural origin. To protect yourself from the sun's UV rays, choose one of our body sun creams, one with a SPF 30 and the other with a SPF 50.

True. Laser hair removal is indeed a practice intended for everyone, without distinction of sex, or skin colour. However, it does not work on blonde, very light or even white hair, because these simply lack melanin and the laser is not sensitive to it.

The claim that it is unsuitable for darker skin tones is incorrect. Laser hair removal can be performed on all skin types, provided the appropriate device is used. This is indeed why this method of hair removal requires a certain level of knowledge.

In order to identify the appropriate laser technique and intensity for your skin tone, institutes typically conduct a preliminary diagnosis where your phototype is determined. This classification categorises individualsbased on their skin's reaction to exposure to the sun's UV rays. There are six categories, ranging from the lightest to the darkest. Once the individual's phototype has been identified, professionals are able to determine the type of laser to use, the number of sessions required, the cost of the treatment, and so on...

Caution! Laser hair removal is not recommended for individuals suffering from skin diseases (herpes, lesions, infections...), as well as those under photosensitising treatment (roacutane, cortisone, antibiotics…).

Indeed, budget also influences whether laser hair removal is accessible to everyone or not. At first glance, it is clear that this technique is expensive. One must anticipate approximately 150 to 180 euros per session for half-legs, 60 to 80 euros for underarms, and 50 to 130 euros for a classic or full bikini line.

However, laser hair removal can be viewed as a long-term investment. Ultimately, this procedure costs about the same, if not cheaper, than regular purchases of wax strips or waxing sessions at a beauty salon.

Yes and no. Laser hair removal is typically carried out over 5 to 8 sessions to eliminate even the finest hairs. In principle, it is a permanent technique. However, there are certain exceptions. The hormonal fluctuations can affect the operation. Indeed, it is possible that hair may reappear in the event of pregnancy or at the stage of menopause.

Furthermore, it is also recommended to only resort to this technique for women over the age of 20 - 25, once the menstrual cycle has stabilised. For men, 30 years is theage at which it is ideal to undergo laserhair removal. Below these ages, it is possible that the hair may not have reached its maturity and could therefore easily regenerate.

Yes and no. Indeed, if improperly calibrated, laser hair removal can lead to depigmentation and skin burns. Therefore, appropriate machine settings are essential to prevent skin injuries.

However, at present, no research has demonstrated a link between laser hair removal and melanoma or skin cancer. Exposure to the laser beam occurs over a short duration and poses no danger.

True. Even though laser treatment poses no risks to the development of the foetus, it is not essential to the patient's health during pregnancy. Moreover, due to hormonal fluctuations associated with this period, laser hair removal during pregnancy can promote the appearance of varicose veins and hyperpigmentation, and even cause burns and scars.

As a precautionary principle, it is advisable to postpone sessions until after childbirth.

• I. Catoni, J.R. Manciet, Laser and Lamp Hair Removal, Cosmetology and Aesthetic Dermatology, (2017).

• Dr Bernard COHEN, Laser Hair Removal, (2011).

• Piyu Parth Naik, Laser hair removal - Mechanisms and complications, Clin. Pract. (2021)