Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal
Candela GentleLase Pro-U: Alexandrite laser hair removal for face and body.
- Session duration
- 10–45 minutes, depending on the area
- Recovery time
- None; temporary redness and mild swelling around the follicles for a few hours
- When results become visible
- Gradual thinning from the first sessions; treated hairs shed within 1–3 weeks
- Number of sessions
- Usually 6–8 sessions, every 4–8 weeks, plus maintenance sessions where needed
- Anaesthesia
- Not required; integrated DCD cooling
What it is
Alexandrite laser hair removal targets the melanin in the hair: the laser energy is absorbed by the pigment, converted into heat and disables the hair follicle without injuring the surrounding skin.
The clinic uses the Candela GentleLase Pro-U, one of the most established laser hair-removal platforms, with a 755 nm Alexandrite laser and an integrated Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD) that protects the epidermis with every pulse.
Treatment parameters are set by the doctor according to skin phototype, hair thickness and area. Because follicles respond only during their growth phase, a course of sessions is needed.
Technology / material: Candela GentleLase Pro-U — 755 nm Alexandrite laser with a DCD dynamic cooling system. Certified medical equipment, used exclusively within a medical protocol.
Who it is for
- Adults with unwanted hair on the face or body
- Mainly light to medium phototypes (I–IV) with dark hair; for darker skin, suitability is assessed at the examination
- People with frequent irritation or ingrown hairs from other hair-removal methods
What it can address
- Upper lip, chin, cheeks
- Underarms
- Bikini and deep bikini
- Legs and arms
- Back, chest, abdomen
What it aims to improve
- Long-term hair reduction
- Smoother skin, without irritation from shaving or waxing
- Improvement of folliculitis and ingrown hairs
How it is performed
- 1
Examination of the area, recording of phototype and history; a test pulse where needed.
- 2
The area is shaved 1–2 days before, so that the energy reaches the follicle and not the hair above the skin.
- 3
Protective eyewear is fitted. The doctor sets the laser parameters.
- 4
The pulses are delivered: before each pulse, the DCD system sprays a cryogen that momentarily cools the epidermis.
- 5
A soothing cream and sunscreen are applied. Daily activities can resume immediately.
Before, during and after treatment
Before
- Avoid sun exposure and sunbeds for 2–4 weeks; no tan or self-tanner.
- Do not wax, tweeze or epilate for 4 weeks; shaving only.
- Shave the area 1–2 days before. Tell the doctor about medicines, especially photosensitising ones.
During
- You wear protective eyewear throughout.
- With each pulse you feel a brief hot pinch, softened by the cooling.
After
- Use high-protection sunscreen on the area every day.
- Avoid hot baths, sauna and intense exercise for 24–48 hours.
- Treated hairs fall out on their own within 1–3 weeks; do not pull them.
Why Dr Maria Polykarpou
- The treatment is planned and supervised by a dermatologist — not an operator
- Medical assessment of phototype and history before the first session
- Candela GentleLase Pro-U: an established platform with built-in protection of the epidermis
- Realistic information about the number of sessions and the expected result
Contraindications & important considerations
- Pregnancy (treatment is postponed)
- Recent sun exposure, tan or self-tanner on the area
- Photosensitising medication or isotretinoin in recent months
- Active infection, herpes or inflammation in the area
- History of keloids or photosensitive conditions
- White, grey or very light hair does not respond to the method
- Final suitability is assessed by the doctor at the consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Does laser hair removal hurt?
You feel a brief hot pinch with each pulse. The DCD cooling system of the Candela GentleLase Pro-U reduces the sensation considerably, so a numbing cream is not needed.
How many sessions will I need?
Usually 6–8 sessions at 4–8 week intervals, as the laser only affects hairs in their growth phase. The exact number depends on the area, your phototype and hormonal factors.
Is the result permanent?
The correct term is "permanent hair reduction". After the course, hair growth is reduced significantly and lastingly; some fine hairs may reappear over the years and need maintenance sessions.
Is it suitable for my skin?
The 755 nm Alexandrite performs best on light to medium phototypes with dark hair. For darker skin or light hair, the doctor will tell you at the examination whether the method is indicated.
Can I have laser in summer?
Yes, as long as the area is not tanned and is strictly protected from the sun before and after the session. For exposed areas, the cooler months are often preferred.
What should I do before a session?
Shave the area 1–2 days before, avoid waxing and tweezing for 4 weeks and sun exposure for 2–4 weeks, and tell the doctor about any medication you take.
Is the method safe?
It is an established medical method using certified equipment. Side effects such as temporary redness or, more rarely, pigment changes are minimised when the treatment is planned by a doctor and the instructions are followed.
Indications, the number of sessions and the protocol are determined individually, after medical assessment. Results vary from person to person.
The right treatment begins with the right diagnosis.
Your first visit includes a dermatological examination, a discussion of your goals and a personalised plan, with no obligation to proceed with treatment.
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