Asklepion / Your problems / Body hair
Body hair
Our body is covered with about five million hairs. The hair on the scalp is frequently lost against our will, but those on the body are difficult to get rid off. The suffering is specifically bad in those with an excess of hair, related to genetic predisposition, hormonal dysfunction or use of specific medicines. Hairy skin, especially if really excessive is considered as a cosmetic handicap at the present time.
The laser removal of body hair is the most effective and lasting method which presently exists. In comparison to, for example previously used electrical needle techniques, it is much more gentle and effective. Thanks to most modern lasers and machines (GentleLASE, GentleYAG, and Ellipse), the method of laser depilation is the most frequent laser procedure performed in Asklepion.
GentleYAG, GentleLASE and Ellipse work according to similar principles. The rays are absorbed by the hair pigment, progresses through the top layer of skin and is caught in the follicle of hair which is thermally destroyed. The purpose of depilation is hitting the hair in the growing phase. On the human body there is about 30–40 % hair at this stage at any time and this is the reason that the treatments have to be repeated in each client. Usually this is necessary 4-5times, but in certain patients with hormonal problems it can be 8 or more times.
GentleLASE is very effective specifically for black or brown hair, it is worse with light hair, and ineffective for grey hair. Ellipse is not as effective as GentleLASE but on the other hand is able to remove light hair and also grey hair and the treatment is quicker. GentleYAG is the specialist for darker and pigmented skin (including black people), where it is very safe.
We recommend not removing the hair totally about 3–5 weeks before the procedure, but it can be shaved or cut. For one month after treatment, protection from exposure to the sun is essential for example by use of Photoderm.
The discomfort of the procedure is individual. GentleLASE and GentleYAG freeze the treated place at the moment of laser shot by a special fluid, which makes the procedure gentler and more comfortable. Small areas can be treated without any local anaesthetic, bigger areas with the local desensitisation, such as local creams.
On the face sensitive skin can redden for a few days, there can be formation of small scabs, which heal quickly and drop off. In the majority of patients in one or two hours there is no evidence that they underwent this procedure.