Laser hair removal: GentleMax pro® treatment (Alexandrite and Nd YAG lasers)

The motivations for laser hair removal are varied. Most commonly, it is sought for aesthetic reasons. Athletes, such as cyclists and swimmers, also choose laser hair removal for aerodynamic benefits. Additionally, it is recommended for individuals who experience infections, folliculitis, or cysts due to traditional hair removal methods.

At the Antibes clinic, Dr. Virginie Aimé uses the GentleMax Pro, a state-of-the-art laser combining Alexandrite and Nd:YAG technologies. Alexandrite is renowned for its rapid, minimally painful treatments requiring fewer sessions. For darker or tanned skin, the Nd:YAG laser is preferred.

Laser hair removal relies on thermal effects that target and destroy hair follicles. Each laser type features a specific wavelength designed to destroy hair pigment (melanin) without damaging surrounding tissues. Effective lasers for hair removal include :

• Alexandrite Laser (755 nm)
• Diode Laser (800 nm)
• Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm), ideal for darker skin tones

The GentleMax Pro, used by Dr. Aimé, treats all skin types, from light to dark.

Yes, laser hair removal is a medical procedure. Only physicians are authorized to use laser devices. Treatments must be conducted in a medical clinic or center.

Dr. Aimé is highly trained in laser technology, holding a European Inter-University Diploma in Medical Lasers. With over 15 years of experience in her Antibes practice, she ensures safe and effective treatments.

Laser hair removal is effective for both men and women on the face and body. It targets pigmented hair in various areas, excluding the eye contour for safety reasons.

• Women’s Common Areas : Bikini line, underarms, legs, thighs, face, arms.
• Men’s Common Areas : Back, chest, shoulders, arms.

Before starting, you’ll have a consultation to review the treatment plan, assess the area, and estimate the number of sessions required. A detailed quote and consent form will be provided.

Important Pre-Treatment Steps :

1. Avoid sun exposure for at least three weeks before the session. Use SPF 50+ sunscreen.
2. Stop using tanning activators or self-tanners two weeks before treatment.
3. Shave the area the day before the session. Avoid waxing, plucking, or bleaching hair during the treatment period.

During the session, you’ll feel mild warmth or pinching as the laser targets the hair follicle. The GentleMax Pro uses a Zimmer cooling device to minimize discomfort.
Treatment times vary by area :

• Underarms : 3–5 minutes
• Bikini line : <10 minutes
• Legs : 15–20 minutes
• Back : ~15 minutes

After the session, you may experience minor redness or a warm sensation, which typically subsides within hours. For larger areas, like legs, itching may occur—hydrate the skin thoroughly.

Use SPF 50+ sunscreen to protect treated areas. Avoid mechanical hair removal methods (waxing, plucking) between sessions.

Within three weeks, treated hair will fall out. Gentle exfoliation can help this process. Most patients see an 80–90% permanent reduction in hair. Maintenance sessions may be required for optimal results.

Laser hair removal is not effective on fine, light-colored, or white hair. It is contraindicated for :

• Pregnant women (due to hormonal changes)
• Patients using photosensitizing medications
• Areas with tattoos
• pacemakers

Laser hair removal pricing depends on the area treated and the number of sessions required. Initial consultation includes a tailored quote.

Is Laser Hair Removal Different for Men ?

Due to the thickness and pigmentation of male hair, men are ideal candidates for laser hair removal.
The principle of permanent hair removal for men is the same as for women; only the treated areas differ. For men, laser hair removal typically targets the back, shoulders, and chest.

Laser Hair Removal for Dark and Tanned Skin :

Laser hair removal for dark and tanned skin requires specialized laser equipment to minimize the risk of burns and hyperpigmentation. For skin types V and VI, your doctor uses the ND:YAG laser. Although it requires more sessions than the Alexandrite laser, it eliminates 60–90% of hair.

Precautions Before ND:YAG Laser Hair Removal :

• Avoid traditional hair removal methods for one month before laser treatment.
• Do not pluck hairs in the treated area between sessions.
• Avoid sun exposure and tanning for one month before your session.
• Inform your doctor about your current medications and medical history during your first consultation.

The Fitzpatrick Classification table below can help determine your skin phototype.

Extreme Cases Where Laser Hair Removal Is Recommended

1. Hirsutism :
   • Caused by hormonal imbalances, it refers to excessive hair growth in male-pattern areas (chin, umbilical line, etc.) in women, often due to hyperandrogenism.
   • Common causes include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), anorexia, obesity, or other rare endocrine disorders.
   • At menopause, chin and upper lip hair may develop due to a relative increase in androgens.
   • It is essential to address the underlying causes before starting laser hair removal.
2. Hypertrichosis :
   • This is an excessive amount of hair in normal patterns, typically hereditary or ethnic, without hormonal influence.
3. Iatrogenic Hypertrichosis :
   • Triggered by certain medications, such as anabolic steroids, first-generation progestins, cyclosporine, minoxidil, or prolonged corticosteroid use.
4. Pseudofolliculitis :
   • Hair inflammation, often caused by shaving or waxing.

What Is the Hair Growth Cycle ?

To understand how lasers achieve permanent hair removal, it’s essential to know that the hair growth cycle has three phases :

1. Anagen Phase (Growth) :
   • The hair matrix nourishes the hair bulb, which is rich in melanin and located 3–7 mm deep in the dermis, depending on the area.
   • This phase lasts 1–3 months, shorter for facial hair and longer for areas like the pubic region and underarms. Hair on the scalp remains in this phase for years, explaining its length.
2. Catagen Phase (Transition) :
   • The hair detaches from the matrix, ceasing growth, and melanin in the bulb decreases. This phase lasts about three weeks.
3. Telogen Phase (Rest and Shedding) :
   • The hair ascends and sheds, replaced by new growth. The laser is ineffective during this phase, which lasts 3–6 months.

The laser destroys hair only in the anagen phase when melanin concentration is high.

Why Are Multiple Sessions Necessary ?

Hair in a single area is in different stages of the growth cycle. Multiple sessions, spaced regularly, are needed to target all hair in the anagen phase.

• Treatments should be spaced 4–5 weeks apart at minimum and 11–12 weeks at maximum.
• The total duration of the hair cycle varies from 6 to 18 months, depending on the area, age, gender, and hereditary, hormonal, and metabolic factors.

Areas like the thighs and back typically require more sessions (minimum 10 on average) compared to the underarms, bikini line, and lower legs (6–8 sessions on average).