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Laser hair removal is a procedure in which a concentrated beam of light (laser) is directed at the hair follicles. The energy is absorbed by the melanin in the hair, heats the follicle, and destroys it, thereby reducing hair growth

The treatment utilizes the principle of selective photothermolysis: light energy is absorbed by the pigment melanin in the hair follicle and converted into heat. This thermal damage destroys the matrix-forming cells in the follicle, thereby inhibiting hair growth. The epidermis is protected through the selection of appropriate wavelengths, pulse durations, and cooling techniques.

Hair goes through three phases:
• Anagen (growth phase): The hair follicle is active; laser effectiveness is at its peak.
• Catagen (transition phase): The follicle shrinks, and the laser’s effectiveness is reduced.
• Telogen (resting phase): The hair follicle is inactive, and the laser is ineffective.
Only anagen hairs can be permanently treated, so multiple sessions are necessary to target all hairs in the anagen cycle.

• Alexandrite laser (755nm): High melanin absorption, effective for fair skin types.
• Diode laser (800–810nm): Medium penetration depth, suitable for fair to medium skin types.
• Nd:YAG laser (1064nm): Deeper penetration, low melanin absorption, suitable for dark skin types.
• Ruby laser (694nm): Rarely used, high melanin absorption, risk of hypopigmentation.

The wavelength determines the depth of penetration and the selectivity for melanin. Short-wavelength light is absorbed more strongly by melanin but can cause more damage to the epidermis. Longer wavelengths penetrate deeper, are safer for darker skin types, but are less effective on very fine hair.

The pulse duration should correspond to the thermal relaxation time (TRT) of the follicle.
• Short pulses: high intensity, risk of epidermal damage
• Long pulses: uniform heating, lower risk of burns
Optimal adjustment increases effectiveness and safety.

• Erythema and edema: a physiological response to heat, usually temporary.
• Hyper-/hypopigmentation: caused by a melanin reaction or an inflammatory response.
• Paradoxical hair growth: rare, likely due to local stimulation of telogen hair follicles.

People with dark hair and fair skin are the best candidates, as the melanin in the hair absorbs the laser energy. Modern devices also allow for the treatment of darker skin types.

According to the Fitzpatrick scale (types I–VI):
• Types I–III: maximum effectiveness
• Types IV–VI: Nd:YAG laser recommended; lower risk of pigmentation issues
Light-colored hair (blonde, gray, white) contains little melanin and responds poorly to treatment.

Fine, light vellus hair often responds less well to laser treatment. Dark, thick hair responds most effectively to treatment.

• Hair color and thickness
• Skin type
• Treatment interval and number of sessions
• Laser type, wavelength, energy, and pulse duration
• Practitioner’s experience

The laser emits light pulses that are selectively absorbed by the melanin in the hair. This energy is converted into heat and destroys the hair follicle, while the surrounding skin is largely spared. This is known as selective photothermolysis.

Almost all areas of the body can be treated, including the legs, arms, underarms, face, back, chest, and bikini area.

The sensation is often described as a brief, sharp jolt, similar to a light snap of a rubber band. Many devices have built-in cooling systems that significantly reduce the pain.

• Do not epilate or wax: Shaving is permitted, as the hair follicle must remain intact.
• Avoid sun exposure: Sunburned or heavily tanned skin cannot be treated.
• Do not use self-tanners: These interfere with the laser treatment.

The duration depends on the treatment area:
• Face: 10–20 minutes
• Underarms or bikini line: 15–30 minutes
• Legs or back: 30–60 minutes

On average, 6–8 sessions spaced 4–8 weeks apart are required, depending on the hair growth cycle, body area, and skin and hair type.

Laser hair removal results in permanent hair reduction, not always complete hair removal. After several sessions (usually 6–8), 70–90% of the hair can be permanently reduced. Some hair may grow back over time.

• Apply cooling and, if necessary, soothing creams.
• Use sunscreen for 2 weeks to prevent pigmentation issues.
• Avoid hot baths, saunas, and exercise for 24–48 hours.

Possible side effects include:
• Redness (erythema) and mild swelling (perifollicular edema)
• Temporary changes in skin pigmentation (hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation)
• Rarely, minor burns if used improperly

Not recommended. There are insufficient studies on safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The cost varies depending on the device, the area of the body, and the number of sessions. Typically, it ranges from €50 to €500 per session, with larger areas costing more.

Yes, men can have any area of their body treated, including the back, chest, shoulders, and face. Men’s hair is usually thicker, so the treatment may be more intense.

When used correctly, only localized thermal damage to the hair follicle occurs. The epidermis and surrounding tissue remain intact. Modern devices with cooling systems minimize the risk of thermal skin damage.