Everything you want to know about permanent hair removal
Curious about permanent hair removal? Here you'll find the answers to all your questions! From minimum age to risks, and from skin types to piercings: I'll tell you exactly what you need to know.
At what age can I start permanent hair removal?
You must be at least 18 years old to start. At that age, your hormone balance is usually stable enough after puberty. Hormonal fluctuations can reactivate dormant hair cells, and we certainly don't want that!
What does permanent hair removal at Miss. Elegance™ entail?
At Miss. Elegance, I use the innovative Diode ICE Laser QuattroWave, available in Alkmaar. This method targets the hair follicles directly and is fast, effective, and virtually painless.
Using skin-friendly temperatures and advanced techniques, I'll treat your skin in a comfortable way. No fuss, just a gentle, professional approach with lasting results.
Which skin and hair types can be treated?
Laser hair removal is a popular method for long-term hair reduction. However, the treatment's effectiveness can vary significantly depending on hair color. Dark hair contains a lot of melanin, the pigment that absorbs laser light and generates heat, damaging the hair follicle. Therefore, dark hair generally responds very well to laser treatments.
Light-colored hair, such as blond, red, or gray, on the other hand, contains much less melanin. As a result, the laser light is less effectively absorbed, and the treatment is often less successful. Even with the use of advanced laser technologies, such as the Nd:YAG laser, which can penetrate deeper into the skin, the effect on light-colored hair remains limited.
It's sometimes suggested to dye light hair before treatment to increase its effectiveness. In practice, this has little impact, as artificial dyes don't penetrate deeply enough into the hair follicle to significantly enhance the laser's effectiveness.
For people with blond, red, or gray hair, electrolysis may be a better alternative. This method uses a gentle electric current to permanently remove individual hair follicles, regardless of hair color.
Miss. Elegance™ always provides honest advice about the expected results of laser hair removal, tailored to your hair color and skin type. During a free, no-obligation phone consultation, Miss. Elegance™ will be happy to discuss the best treatment options with you, so you always choose the one that best suits your needs and skin. ✨
I have very dark skin & black hair
For people with darker skin (Fitzpatrick skin type V–VI), the Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) is the most suitable choice. This laser has a longer wavelength that penetrates deeper into the skin and bypasses melanin in the upper layers. This significantly reduces the risk of skin damage and makes the treatment safer for darker skin types.
⚠️ Please note: risk of hypopigmentation (light spots)
Despite the suitability of the Nd:YAG laser, there is always a risk of hypopigmentation. Hypopigmentation occurs when melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) are damaged or destroyed. This can lead to light spots that can last for several weeks to months, and sometimes even become permanent.
🛡️ How to minimize risks
To reduce the risk of side effects, Miss. Elegance™ recommends:
To choose an experienced and honest specialist who has demonstrable experience with laser treatments on dark skin types.
Always perform a test treatment on a small area of skin to assess skin reaction.
Take careful care of your skin before and after treatment, such as avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen consistently.
🤝 Advice from Miss Elegance™
Laser hair removal for dark skin and black hair can be effective, but deserves extra attention and honesty. Miss Elegance™ sees that many websites make promises that underestimate the risks. Caution is essential for dark skin, because despite using the correct laser, unwanted pigment changes such as hypopigmentation can occur, especially with incorrect settings or lack of experience.
If you're unsure whether laser hair removal is the right choice for your skin type, Miss. Elegance™ recommends considering alternative hair removal methods like waxing. Waxing offers a temporary, yet safe and effective solution without the risk of permanent pigment changes.
📲 Personal advice
Do you have questions or would you like to know what is best for your skin type?
Simply send a WhatsApp message to Miss. Elegance™ at 06 408 32 711. We'll then schedule a phone consultation to discuss your needs, skin type, and treatment options in detail and honestly. This way, you'll always make a well-informed choice that truly suits you. ✨
Can you also laser with blond or gray hair?
Blonde and gray hair contain less melanin, which means laser energy is absorbed less effectively. As a result, laser hair removal is often less successful for these hair colors. In some cases, more treatment sessions are necessary, but even then, the results may be limited. Miss. Elegance™ therefore advises you to be well-informed beforehand and have realistic expectations. During a phone call, Miss. Elegance™ is happy to discuss which hair removal method best suits your hair color.
Can you laser red hair?
Red hair contains mainly pheomelanin and very little eumelanin, the pigment needed to effectively absorb laser energy. Because of this, laser hair removal is generally unsuccessful on red hair. Even with the latest laser technologies, the effectiveness remains very limited. Miss. Elegance™ recommends choosing an alternative hair removal method, such as waxing, for red hair to achieve a smooth and polished result.
Can you laser remove downy hair?
Fine, downy hairs contain very little pigment and are therefore not suitable for laser hair removal. Successful and beautiful results cannot be achieved with them.
What device are you using?
I work with the Diode ICE Laser QuattroWave, the top technology for permanent hair removal.
What is the difference with IPL devices for home use?
At-home IPL only temporarily puts hair follicles into a dormant state. But with the Platinum Diode Laser, hair follicles are permanently destroyed. After your treatment (usually 6-10 sessions), you only need to come in once a year for a maintenance treatment. Say goodbye to razors and stop fiddling around at home!
What should I take into account before and after the treatment?
Here are my tips:
Avoid intensive sunbathing or tanning beds for 4 weeks before and after your treatment.
Waxing, sugaring, or plucking is a no-go in the four weeks leading up to the procedure. Shaving is permitted.
Make sure you shave the areas to be treated thoroughly no more than 24 hours before your appointment. The newer the shave, the better!
During our consultation I will go through everything with you, so that you are well prepared.
How does sun exposure work?
Sun exposure
Traditional Guideline:
Previously it was recommended to avoid direct sun exposure for 2-4 weeks before and after laser treatment.
Modern technology – Diode ICE Laser QuattroWave
Thanks to the latest generation of laser devices, such as the Diode ICE Laser QuattroWave from Miss Elegance™, with advanced cooling and a safe pulse mode, recovery time is significantly shorter. This often reduces the recommended time off from tanning to about 7 days.
However, caution remains important:
Avoid direct sun exposure or use of tanning beds in the 7 days prior to treatment.
The skin is more sensitive after the treatment: always use an SPF 50 sunscreen and avoid the sun for at least 7 days after the treatment.
Why?
Even with safe, modern laser technology, sun exposure remains a risk. It increases the risk of:
🔸 Hyperpigmentation
🔸 Skin irritation or burning
🔸 Extended recovery
At Miss Elegance™, we always consider your skin type, tan, and treatment area to provide the right advice – safely and effectively.
When can treatment not be performed?
Sometimes there are reasons why I cannot (yet) treat you, for example:
- Diabetes, psoriasis, of acute huidontstekingen.
- Open wounds or dark moles on the area to be treated.
- Use of light-sensitive medicines (such as St. John's wort).
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Are you unsure about anything? Always consult your doctor before we start.
Below is a clear overview of situations in which it is not safe to undergo laser treatment.
While laser hair removal is safe and effective, there are certain circumstances where it's best not to undergo the procedure. This is to prevent complications and ensure your safety.
1. Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Laser hair removal is not recommended during pregnancy due to the changed hormone balance, which can affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
- You can usually receive treatment during breastfeeding, but this should always be done in consultation with a specialist.
2. Active skin problems
- Skin infections: Do not treat areas with active infections, such as wounds, pimples, or abscesses.
- Eczema or psoriasis: Avoid treatments on active areas of eczema or psoriasis, as these areas are extra sensitive.
3. Use of certain medications
Photosensitizing medications: Medications such as antibiotics, retinoids (e.g., Roaccutane), and certain anti-acne medications can make the skin more sensitive to light. Wait at least 6 months after stopping Roaccutane before starting laser treatment.
- Blood thinners: Always consult a doctor if you are taking blood thinners, as the skin may be more sensitive to bruising.
4. Recent sunbathing or use of a tanning bed
Laser treatments should not be performed on skin that has recently been exposed to the sun or a tanning bed (less than two weeks). Tanned skin is more susceptible to side effects, such as sunburn or pigment spots.
5. Skin with tattoos or permanent makeup
Laser hair removal cannot be performed over tattoos or permanent makeup, as the laser can affect the pigment and cause damage.
6. Hormonal disorders
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other hormonal fluctuations can affect hair growth. Laser hair removal can still be effective in these cases, but more sessions are often necessary.
7. Active cold sore (herpes simplex)
Laser hair removal can worsen a cold sore if performed on the face or lips. Wait until the cold sore has completely healed.
8. Cancer or radiation
People who are being treated for cancer or have recently undergone radiation therapy should not undergo laser treatment. Always discuss this with a doctor.
9. Hypersensitivity or allergies
If you are hypersensitive to light (for example due to a medical condition such as lupus), laser treatment may be risky.
10. Implants or metals in the body
If you have metal implants in the area to be treated, such as screws or plates, consult your specialist. The laser can generate heat that may cause discomfort.
What to do when in doubt? Not sure if laser treatment is right for you? Always consult your doctor first.
Are there any risks or side effects?
The Diode ICE Laser QuattroWave is extremely safe.
What does a treatment entail?
This is how your laser appointment at Miss. Elegance™ will proceed:
We start with a relaxed intake interview, where we calmly discuss everything and complete an intake form together.
You'll ensure the area to be treated is shaved short and smooth. This is crucial for a safe and effective treatment.
I disinfect the skin carefully.
I draw small grids on the treatment area with a white marker so that we don't miss any areas.
You will be given protective glasses, I will apply a cooling gel, and then we will start.
The handpiece glides gently over your skin until all grids have been treated.
Afterwards I will care for your skin with a soothing organic Aloe Vera.
You get dressed calmly, and I carefully record all the settings in your file – this way we build on your result step by step.
Does it hurt?
The treatment is painless.
A built-in cooling system ensures that your skin stays nice and cool during the treatment.
After how many treatments will I see results?
You'll often notice the first effects after your first session! Your hair grows in cycles, and only hairs in the active growth phase can be treated. After about 1-3 weeks, these hairs fall out, and you'll already see a difference.
How many treatments do I need?
Typically, you'll need 6 to, in some cases, around 12 treatments, every 4-6 weeks. The final result depends on factors such as your hair growth, skin type, and hormones.
However, most ladies experience wonderful results after 3 or 4 treatments.
Are the results clinically proven?
Absolutely. The Diode ICE Laser QuattroWave technology has been extensively researched and proven over many years.
Diode ICE Laser QuattroWave is the gold standard of all laser equipment.
Is faster hair growth after laser treatment normal?
Yes, this is a known phenomenon within the world of laser hair removal and is considered normal and not undesirable.
Sometimes, especially around the second or third session, a temporary increase in hair growth may be visible. This is due to changes in the hair growth cycle caused by the laser treatment. Normally, hair grows in phases, but after treatment, hairs that haven't yet been destroyed may enter the growth phase more quickly, giving the appearance of increased growth.
This effect is temporary. During follow-up treatments, these hair follicles are still effectively treated, ultimately leading to a minimal and permanent reduction in hair growth.