All the Secrets of Laser Hair Removal: Is It Safe? Are the Results Permanent? What’s the Difference Between Photoepilation and Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal has carved out an exceptional place among hair removal techniques, largely due to its long-lasting results. That’s why we’ve delved deeper into this method to clarify things for anyone considering a laser hair removal treatment.
To shed light on the topic, our director and founder, Dr. Fernando Motta Mafla, helps us better understand the technique. Don’t miss it!
For someone unfamiliar with the subject, the variety of names and sometimes misleading advertising can create confusion. Do you think it’s essential to rely on a doctor’s opinion and recommendations?
Not only are a doctor’s recommendations essential, but ongoing medical oversight is too. Both laser hair removal and non-invasive aesthetic medicine require continuous medical supervision to avoid jeopardizing the patient’s health. Nowadays, many establishments offer hair removal or even facial fillers without medical oversight, which can seriously harm patients and lead to permanent negative consequences.
Today, laser hair removal is performed in medical-aesthetic centers, beauty salons, and even hairdressers or gyms. Do you think clearer regulations are needed to prevent potential issues?
Absolutely, regulation is necessary. Patients entrust their bodies, skin, and health to the person performing the laser treatment. If it’s done by someone untrained and lacking medical knowledge, severe and often irreversible injuries can occur.
Alongside growing demand, complaints about minor side effects (like burns) or unmet expectations are also on the rise. What’s the root of the problem?
The main issue lies in the use of equipment by non-professionals without medical supervision. If the person performing the treatment isn’t certified to operate the equipment, it can result in burns or other injuries to the patient.
Every patient is unique, so before starting laser hair removal, a doctor must examine the patient’s skin, review their medications, and more. The best way to avoid these issues is to ensure the staff operating the equipment is certified and a doctor is involved.
Speaking of the technique itself, are the results permanent?
The results are permanent as long as the patient follows the recommended session schedule based on the hair growth cycle. Skipping sessions or waiting too long between them can delay results. While the outcome is 100% effective, we recommend an annual maintenance session after completion to address any fine, blonde hair that may occasionally appear.
Is it a safe method?
When performed by certified professionals under medical supervision, it’s completely safe—and highly effective.
Which areas is it especially recommended for?
All areas. There’s no part of the body where laser hair removal isn’t suitable. It can be used on any skin type and any area.
How much do skin tone and hair color affect it?
With the Harmony XL Pro and Soprano Ice Platinum lasers from Alma Lasers, skin tone and hair color have no impact. They’re especially ideal for darker skin tones or blonde hair.
What’s the ideal profile for a laser hair removal session?
Anyone over 14 years old, male or female. The only conditions are that it’s been at least 15 days since their last sun exposure and that the skin has no wounds.
Is it still painful? Have techniques improved in this regard?
Technology has advanced significantly here. With these lasers, hair removal is nearly painless, though sensitivity varies by individual. Pain is minimal, if present at all.
When do results become noticeable?
From the first session, you’ll notice some hairs growing back and falling out. With each session, hair-free areas increase until all hair is gone. Following the recommended intervals between sessions ensures maximum effectiveness.
What are the latest innovations in laser hair removal?
The Harmony XL Pro and Soprano Laser represent the latest advancements in laser hair removal.
What precautions or care should you take once you start laser sessions?
Above all, inform the doctor if you have any skin injuries, are pregnant, or have started new medications. These factors matter because skin can change, and the doctor is best equipped to determine if treatment can proceed.
Which areas do women most commonly treat?
Nowadays, all areas are treated. The most popular are underarms, bikini line, and legs, but others like the linea alba and facial hair are also very common.
Alexandrite, Diode, Ruby, Nd:YAG lasers… who’s who in the laser world? Could you give us a clear, simple summary of each type and who they work best for?
The difference lies in wavelength: Alexandrite is mainly used for dark hair and medium skin tones; Diode works on darker skin and all hair types; Ruby is ideal for light skin and dark hair; and Nd:YAG, with the longest wavelength, suits all skin types but may require one or two extra sessions. At our clinic, we offer all four technologies.
Do you choose the most suitable laser type for each person based on their characteristics?
Absolutely. Before starting sessions, we offer a free medical consultation where the doctor examines each client and determines the best treatment for them.
Many readers still don’t know the difference between photoepilation and laser hair removal. Could you explain it simply?
Laser light travels in a straight line and is absorbed with greater precision, targeting only melanin and protecting surrounding tissue—it goes straight to the hair root. Photoepilation uses light that scatters in all directions, making it less precise. It affects all areas of the skin, not directly targeting the hair follicle.
Is laser hair removal also for men? Are more men visiting laser hair removal centers? What areas do they request most?
Today, there’s almost no gender divide in hair removal. Our clinic sees nearly equal numbers of men and women. Men recognize their right to self-care and are increasingly doing so. Like women, they treat all areas, but favorites include the chest and back, followed by underarms.
For more information about Dr. Fernando Motta Mafla, visit his official website: www.drfernandomotta.com
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