Laser hair removal is one of the most effective long-term solutions for reducing unwanted hair. With today's advanced devices and improved treatment protocols, it is now possible to achieve more consistent results compared to earlier years. When performed correctly, laser hair removal can significantly reduce unwanted hair growth in many areas of the body.
Many patients, especially those considering Alexandrite laser hair removal, report high satisfaction with their results. This is because the success of the procedure is closely related to the quality of the device used, correct settings, and proper patient selection.
If you would like to learn more about laser hair removal treatment in Tekirdag, Turkey (near Istanbul) and request a consultation, you can contact us using the information on our communication page.
What Is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser is a concentrated beam of light produced by stimulated radiation. Laser technology has been used for many years in both medicine and aesthetic dermatology, offering long-term solutions for various concerns. The use of laser for unwanted hair reduction has a history of approximately 25 years.
Laser hair removal has become increasingly popular due to several key advantages such as applicability to multiple body areas and long-lasting reduction. The core aim of laser epilation is to target and weaken hair follicles. The laser energy creates controlled heat in the follicle, which helps reduce regrowth over time. As a result, the treated area becomes progressively smoother with repeated sessions.
Types of Laser Hair Removal Devices
Today, there are several different laser systems used for hair removal. The main differences are related to wavelength and the depth of energy penetration. The most suitable device can be chosen based on factors such as skin tone, hair thickness, and hair color.
Below are the most commonly used laser types:
Ruby Laser
Ruby laser systems are generally effective on very fine and short hair, and they are most often used on small areas such as the upper lip. These systems typically operate at a wavelength of 694 nm and tend to perform better on lighter skin tones.
Alexandrite Laser
One of the main advantages of Alexandrite lasers is that they can selectively target hair follicles while minimizing impact on surrounding tissues. These systems operate at 755 nm and can be applied quickly to wider body areas due to their larger spot size.
Alexandrite lasers are especially successful for dark hair, as the melanin pigment is effectively targeted. Devices with advanced cooling systems may also improve comfort during the procedure.
Diode Laser
Diode laser devices usually work at around 800 nm. They are known to be effective for certain hair types, including finer hair structures. These systems are often used close to the skin surface and typically require cooling gels or integrated cooling technologies for better comfort.
Some diode systems allow manual setting adjustments, making them suitable for a wider range of skin types.
Nd:YAG Laser
Nd:YAG laser systems can be more uncomfortable compared to other laser types for some patients. However, they have the advantage of being effective for both lighter and darker skin tones. These systems operate at 1064 nm and use longer pulse durations. They may also provide benefits for finer hair in selected cases.
Alexandrite Candela Laser Hair Removal
One of the most commonly preferred laser systems in recent years is Alexandrite Candela, operating at 755 nm. Its compatibility with different skin tones and advanced cooling features make it a comfortable option for many patients.
This laser system is widely used internationally and has become a well-known choice in clinical practice. Proper assessment and device settings are essential in order to achieve safe and effective outcomes.
Which Body Areas Can Laser Hair Removal Be Applied To?
Laser hair removal is not limited to the arms or legs only. It can be applied to many areas of the body to support long-term reduction of unwanted hair. Common treatment areas include:
- Arms
- Legs
- Chest
- Back
- Face
- Neck (including nape area)
- Bikini / genital area
- Under the chin and jawline
A detailed evaluation helps determine whether a specific body region is suitable for laser hair removal.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Laser hair removal can be used by both women and men. A frequently asked question is how many sessions are needed for long-term results. Session numbers vary from person to person and depend on multiple factors such as:
- Hair density and thickness
- Hair color and melanin level
- Hormonal profile
- Body area being treated
In many cases, satisfactory reduction can be achieved in approximately 4 to 6 sessions. However, some individuals may require fewer sessions, while others may require more sessions for optimal results. Also, certain body areas respond faster, while others may need longer treatment plans.
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
Some people avoid laser hair removal because they worry that it will be painful. However, modern laser systems are far more comfortable than older devices. Today, many devices include integrated cooling technology, which helps reduce discomfort.
For individuals with a low pain threshold, a topical numbing cream may be applied before treatment. This can make the procedure significantly more comfortable.
Is Laser Hair Removal Harmful?
There have been misconceptions for years suggesting that laser hair removal might be harmful. Scientific evaluations indicate that laser hair removal is generally safe when performed correctly by qualified professionals using appropriate devices and settings.
Laser energy reaches only a limited depth in the skin-mainly the area where hair follicles are located. It does not penetrate into deeper layers of the body.
It is also important to clarify that there is no established evidence showing that laser hair removal causes cancer. Such claims are not supported by clinical research.
Who Should Not Have Laser Hair Removal?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for laser epilation. The procedure may not be recommended in certain situations, including:
- Open wounds or skin infections in the treatment area
- Active dermatological conditions (e.g., eczema flare-ups in the area)
- Certain oral medications that increase skin sensitivity
- Epilepsy (in some cases)
- Use of a pacemaker or specific medical devices
- Diabetes (requires physician consultation)
- White hair or "peach fuzz" (very light hair may not respond well)
If you have an underlying health condition or are using regular medication, it is recommended to inform your doctor before starting treatment.
Treatment Process
People who are having laser hair removal for the first time often wonder what the treatment process is like and how they should prepare. In general, laser epilation is a straightforward procedure and does not require a long recovery period. The most commonly asked points can be summarized as follows:
- Laser hair removal is usually well tolerated, and the procedure is not as painful as many people expect.
- For best results, you should avoid removing hair from the root (waxing, epilator, tweezing) in the treatment area for at least 15 days before your session, as the laser targets the hair follicle.
- On the day of treatment, you should not apply moisturizers, body oils, perfume, or similar skincare products to the area being treated.
- Hair-bleaching products should not be used before laser epilation, as they may affect how the laser targets the hair.
- Starting at least one month before treatment, it is recommended to avoid tanning methods that darken the skin such as sunbathing and solarium, since changes in skin tone may increase sensitivity and reduce treatment efficiency.
- In general, it is best to avoid activities that significantly alter skin color or cause skin irritation before sessions.
- From 15 days before the session, peeling products and aggressive exfoliants that may cause skin shedding or irritation should not be used on the treatment area.
- No complex or special preparation is required; a simple clinical assessment is usually sufficient.
- Laser hair removal does not require rest afterward, and most patients can return to their normal daily routine immediately after the procedure.
If you would like to get more detailed information about laser hair removal treatment in Tekirdag (close to Istanbul) and the most appropriate preparation steps for your skin type, you can contact us and request an appointment.
Aftercare
After laser hair removal, most people can return to daily life immediately. However, there are a few important points to know in order to protect the skin and support an optimal outcome:
- Mild redness may occur due to the effect of the laser energy on the skin.
- This redness is completely normal and typically disappears on its own within a short time; no special intervention is usually needed.
- There is no restriction on showering after the session.
- Until the next session, you should avoid hair-removal methods that pull the hair from the root (such as waxing, tweezing, or using an epilator), as the laser treatment targets the hair follicle.
- For 48 hours after each session, perfume, deodorant, or fragranced products should not be applied to the treated area.
- If laser epilation is performed on the face, cosmetic products such as foundation should be avoided for two days.
- Laser hair removal does not typically cause pain, cramps, or similar discomfort.
To learn more about laser hair removal in Tekirdag (near Istanbul) and to permanently reduce unwanted hair safely, you can contact us and request an appointment.
