The long-pulsed Alexandrite laser treats unwanted, dark hair on fair skin (phototype 1 to 3) with a view to permanent hair removal. It is a laser hair removal which also allows the reduction of the impact of hairs in different dermatological diseases such as ingrown hairs, hirsutism, pilonidal cyst or suppurative hidrosadenitis.
During treatment, the light beam, which emits at 755 nm, will be aimed at the areas where hair is to be eliminated. The hair needs to be dark, present, and short. The energy released selectively destroys the melanin pigment around the roots of the hair. The cells are heated and selectively destroyed without affecting the surrounding tissue. The procedure usually takes place without a local anaesthetic. The duration of the treatment and the number of sessions depends on the nature, size, and location of the hair-covered areas.
Hair should not be removed between sessions. Immediately after the session, skin will be red. This redness will last two to three hours, sometimes two to three days. Hairs will fall out after the session. This can sometimes take three or four weeks. Before any treatment, a test is carried out on the area to be treated. Skin should not be tanned. Sun exposure can resume two weeks after the treatment using an SPF50 sunscreen.
Prior consultation with a dermatologist is compulsory. Together, you and your doctor will assess which treatment is best suited to your needs and what the possible side effects might be. Based on this discussion, the doctor will also provide a quote.