ALL ABOUT LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Laser hair removal aims to permanently reduce hair regrowth, up to 98% of hairs removed with Studio Fauve's laser technology , offering a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. By directly targeting the hair follicle, this method achieves long-lasting results adapted to each type of skin and hair. Our guide explores in detail how laser hair removal works, the types of skin and hair for which it is effective, everything you need to know before choosing this hair removal method.

Laser hair removal is based on the principle of selective photothermolysis: using a light beam that targets melanin (the pigment in hair) to destroy hair follicles at the root. By absorbing the light energy from the laser, the melanin heats up and eventually destroys the follicle without damaging the surrounding skin. This significantly reduces hair regrowth.

Melanin is the pigment that gives hair and skin its color. During a laser hair removal session, the beam is absorbed by the melanin in the hair, causing it to be destroyed. This is why dark hair on light skin is the easiest to treat: the contrast between the color of the hair and the skin allows the laser to focus only on the melanin in the hair. The concentration of melanin in the skin changes with the seasons and can influence the results of laser hair removal, so it may be wise to choose the right time to start a protocol .

Laser hair removal offers long-lasting hair reduction, but it is rare to talk about permanent hair removal. On average, the Alphaline technology used at Studio Fauve reduces hair regrowth by 80 to 98% , depending on the density and type of hair. The laser targets the melanin in the hair follicle to eliminate it, but some very fine or light hairs, containing little melanin, may not absorb enough energy to be completely eliminated. This is why maintenance sessions may be necessary to maintain the results over the long term.

The hair system is directly influenced by the hormonal system, which means that any hormonal imbalance can impact hair regrowth. In some cases, additional sessions or regular maintenance will be necessary to maintain results. Here are some factors to consider:

• Hormonal changes related to weight variation, changes in contraception (IUD, implant, pills), or periods of high emotional stress.
• Medical conditions such as anorexia or alopecia, as well as taking certain medications or dietary supplements that stimulate hair growth.
• Topical products used to treat acne for example.

Laser treatment is particularly effective when hairs are in the active regrowth phase ( anagen phase ) where melanin is most present. Since hairs in the resting phase are devoid of melanin and the hairs are not all synchronized, a complete laser hair removal treatment requires several sessions to adapt to the hair life cycle and be effective. Each session is generally spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart, and it takes between 6 and 8 sessions to obtain optimal results.

Not all hair grows at the same rate. At any given time, only 15-20% of hairs are in the active growth phase. Spacing out the sessions helps target the hairs in this phase and ensures that all hair follicles are destroyed as they grow.

The treatment is particularly effective for dark hair on light skin, due to the contrast between the hair colour and the skin colour. However, modern technologies also allow all phototypes to be treated, including darker skin, with a suitable laser.

• Light skin and dark hair : The high contrast between skin and hair allows the laser to effectively target melanin in the hair follicle.

• Dark skin and dark hair : Specific lasers are designed to treat darker skin safely. The laser technology at Studio Fauve can treat dark skin.
• Light, gray or red hair : The results of the laser protocol on blond and downy hair are unpredictable. Laser hair removal is ineffective on white hair and true red hair.

Although laser hair removal is a safe method for most people, there are some contraindications that should be considered before starting treatment:

• Pregnancy and lactation : it is recommended to postpone treatment until after childbirth and lactation as a precautionary measure.
• Very tanned or recently sun-exposed skin : Tanned skin is at increased risk for burns or pigmentation changes because the laser can target melanin on the surface of the skin.
• Certain medications : Photosensitizing medications, such as some antibiotics or acne treatments, can increase the risk of burns or skin reactions. It is essential to report any medications you are taking to your practitioner.
• Skin conditions : People with certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, or active skin infections, should avoid laser hair removal on the affected areas until healed.
• Tattoos : The laser may affect tattoos by altering their color or causing burns. It is recommended to avoid tattooed areas.

Before any session, a thorough diagnosis will ensure that the treatment is suitable and safe for your skin type and state of health.

There is no minimum age for laser hair removal, but it is recommended to wait until the end of puberty for a better result. Before this period, hormonal development can still influence hair regrowth. Parental authorization may be required for a minor patient.

Laser hair removal can be performed on almost any area of ​​the body, whether for aesthetic or practical reasons. Some of the most commonly treated areas include:

• Face (lips, chin)
• Armpits
• Legs
• Swimsuit (classic or full)
• Back, torso (for men)

Laser hair removal can cause some mild discomfort, often described as a tingling or warm sensation. However, modern systems, such as the one used at Studio Fauve, include cooling devices to soothe the skin during the session. Depending on individual sensitivity and the area being treated, the discomfort is usually quite bearable.

Laser hair removal is a safe method when performed by qualified professionals. At Studio Fauve , each treatment is preceded by a personalized diagnosis to adapt the protocol to the client's skin and hair type.

Side effects are rare, but temporary redness or irritation may occur after a session. These reactions generally disappear within a few hours. In rare cases, superficial burns or changes in pigmentation may occur, especially on tanned skin or skin exposed to the sun too soon after the session.

Unlike laser, intense pulsed light (IPL) uses a more diffuse, less targeted light than a laser beam. This makes IPL less effective for long-lasting hair removal. Laser, on the other hand, offers more precise and long-lasting results because it specifically targets the melanin in the hair. This is why laser is often preferred for long-lasting hair removal.

Studio Fauve offers a personalized approach to laser hair removal. Each client benefits from an initial skin diagnosis to verify compatibility with laser hair removal and which then allows us to determine the routine best suited to their skin and hair for effective results. Learn more here .