Laser hair removal center in Basel/Saint-Louis : Doctors who are experts in the permanent removal of unwanted hair for soft, smooth skin.
The clinic is a reference center for laser hair removal treatments in Basel/Saint-Louis, carried out by a highly qualified team of doctors and nurses using the Clarity II (Alexandrite -Nd-Yag).
Biolaser, a medical centre specialising in permanent laser hair removal, differs from conventional beauty salons. Unlike those who use pulsed light, Biolaser uses the most advanced laser technology, approved by CE medical/FDA. This modern approach effectively addresses all hair types and phototypes, eliminating up to 90-95% of unwanted hair in just 6 to 8 sessions.
The combination of cutting-edge technology and the professional expertise of experienced doctors and nurses makes Biolaser the first choice for laser hair removal in Saint-Louis in Alsace (France), located on the border with Basel and easily accessible to residents of lörrach, Weil-am-Rhein, freiburg im breisgau, Zurich and Lucerne.
Understanding the hair cycle :
The hair cycle comprises several key elements:
The hair follicle : Hairs grow from hair follicles, the small structures in the skin responsible for hair production.
Hair colour : Each hair has its own colour determined by melanin, the pigment responsible for the pigmentation of skin, hair and body hair. Melanin is also the target of treatment during laser hair removal.
Types of hair : Hair can vary in depth and thickness. We generally distinguish between down (fine and superficial), intermediate hair and terminal hair (thick and deep).
The hair cycle : Each hair follows a life cycle made up of different phases. The length of the hair cycle varies depending on the area of the body, generally from 5 to 18 months. The main phases of the hair cycle are anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase) and telogen (resting phase). Laser hair removal is more effective on hair in the anagen phase, as it contains more melanin and is more receptive to treatment.
Hair growth cycle: understanding the process for optimal results.
1. Anagen phase : active hair growth phase
This is the phase of active hair growth. During this phase, the cells at the base of the hair follicle divide rapidly, promoting hair growth. The hair grows actively towards the surface of the skin. Hairs in the anagen phase contain large quantities of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair colour. The laser specifically targets this melanin, absorbing the light emitted by the laser and converting it into heat. This heat is transmitted to the cells surrounding the hair follicle, causing their selective destruction. Because of the abundance of melanin, hair in the anagen phase is more sensitive to laser treatment, making it more likely to be removed effectively.
2. Catagen phase : transitional phase
During this period, the hair follicle shrinks and stops actively producing new hair. The duration of this phase is generally short, ranging from a few days to a few weeks. Hairs in the catagen phase have a reduced amount of melanin, which limits their absorption of the light emitted by the laser. Consequently, laser treatment is less effective on hair in the catagen phase.
3. Telogen phase : hair’s resting phase
During this period, the hair remains inactive and prepares to fall out. Hairs in the telogen phase are completely separated from the hair follicles and have a low melanin content. As with the catagen phase, laser treatment is less effective on hair in the telogen phase due to its limited absorption of laser light.
4. Independent hair cycle
It is important to note that not all hairs in a given area are in the same phase of the life cycle at the same time. Hairs follow a cycle that is independent of each other, with different periods of growth, transition and rest. This is why several laser hair removal sessions are necessary. The sessions are generally spaced out to allow the hair to move from the telogen or catagen phase to the anagen phase, where it will be more sensitive to the laser treatment. By targeting the hair in the anagen phase during each session, the laser achieves optimal results in removing unwanted hair.
In summary
In short, the laser is most effective on hair in the anagen phase due to the high presence of melanin, which effectively absorbs laser light and generates heat to destroy the cells responsible for hair growth. The catagen and telogen phases have less melanin, which reduces the effectiveness of laser treatment on these hairs. This is why several sessions are needed to target hairs in different phases of the life cycle and achieve optimal results.
How laser hair removal works : selective photothermolysis
The permanent removal of unwanted hair by laser is based on an ingenious scientific process called selective photothermolysis. Discover the key stages in this mechanism, which guarantees long-lasting results:
Stage 1: Converting light energy into heat energy
- The laser emits concentrated, coherent light at a specific wavelength, targeting the melanin (chromophore) present in the hair.
- Melanin, the pigment responsible for the hair’s dark colour, absorbs the laser light and converts it into heat (thermal energy).
Stage 2 : Transmission of heat and destruction of hair structures
- The heat generated by melanin is transmitted to the hair’s germinative structures, such as the bulb and bulge.
- The accumulation of thermal energy then causes the selective destruction of these structures, which are responsible for hair production and growth.
- Without the functional bulb, the hair cannot regenerate, guaranteeing long-lasting results.
Precision and safety
- The wavelength of the laser is carefully chosen to specifically target the melanin in the hair, ensuring selective photothermolysis that only affects the hair structure. This preserves the surrounding areas.
- By using this technology at the Basel/Saint-Louis medical laser center, laser hair removal offers a permanent solution for removing unwanted hair. By precisely targeting the melanin in the hair, the laser destroys the structures responsible for its growth, ensuring long-lasting, satisfying results.
Who can benefit from laser hair removal at the Basel/Saint-Louis medical laser center ?
Type of hair : Permanent laser hair removal is effective for all types of hair, more or less dense, thicker or thinner; however, it is not very effective on downy hair (with a risk of stimulation), ineffective on white hair and variable on very light blond/red hair where a preliminary test can be carried out.
Phototype : All phototypes can be treated: the ALEXANDRITE laser can treat light skin and the ND YAG laser can treat dark or black skin with the same effectiveness and the same guarantees of safety for the skin as for light skin
Aesthetic or therapeutic : hair removal is possible for women and men, for all locations, for aesthetic or therapeutic purposes (hypertrichosis, hirsutism, folliculitis, ingrown hairs…). Concerning ingrown hairs, the destruction of the hair follicle by laser hair removal is a radical treatment for this condition present on the bikini line or legs in women and on the beard in men.
Treatable areas : With a wide range of spot sizes, Clarity II treats the entire body: underarms, bikini area, legs, arms, face, chest and back.
How many sessions are required at the Basel/Saint-Louis medical laser hair removal center ?
As the laser is only effective on hairs in the growth/anagen phase, which represents around 15-20% of hairs, the protocol involves an average of 6 to 8 sessions in order to treat each hair in this phase at least once.
The exact number of laser hair removal sessions cannot be known because the answers vary according to gender (more sessions for men), skin type, hair cycle, hairiness, age and the area to be removed, but also according to the level of requirement of each patient.
The duration of the laser hair removal treatment corresponds to the duration of a hair cycle. The hair cycle of a woman with mature hair lasts about 15 to 18 months and that of a man with mature hair lasts about 18 to 24 months. This varies from person to person and there is no fixed rule in human biology.
The minimum interval between sessions is 4 weeks to allow time for the skin to recover from the treatment and for the untreated hair to grow sufficiently. This period varies according to the areas to be treated: 4 weeks for the face, 6 weeks (underarms and bikini line) and 8 weeks for the rest of the body. It is advisable to respect the rhythm of the sessions recommended by your laserist doctor to optimise the result of the treatment.
For young patients and men for whom results take longer to obtain, maintenance sessions may be necessary.
Is laser hair removal permanent ?
Laser hair removal : A lasting solution
At the Basel/St. Louis Laser Hair Removal Center, we understand the importance of providing clear information about expected results. The term “permanent hair removal” is officially used by the Food and Drug Administration to describe the results obtained with laser hair treatment. According to clinical and histological studies, in general, 80 to 98% of treated hairs do not grow back after a well-conducted laser treatment. This is why we call this method of hair removal permanent, as the terminal hairs present during the treatment are destroyed.
However, it is crucial to note that although laser hair removal is definitive (the hair destroyed does not grow back), it does not necessarily guarantee the total elimination of all hair. At the end of the treatment, some fine, light-coloured fluff may remain, but this is generally well tolerated. The residual hair takes on the appearance of miniaturised hairs.
Individual Influencing Factors
There are five independent categories of causes that influence the success of “permanent hair removal”, its failure or the worsening of hair growth:
- Genetic causes : such as skin colour, which can influence the response to laser treatment.
- Lifestyle Causes : Certain lifestyles, such as excessive sun exposure, can impact results.
- Medical causes : Hormonal imbalances or the use of contraceptives can play a role.
- Biological causes : Age, the area of the body to be treated and hair colour can also influence results.
- Technical causes : The technical parameters of the laser, such as wavelength, pulse duration and power, are essential.
An individualized approach
The laser hair removal center is located in Basel/saint-Louis near Weil-am-Rhein we are committed to providing realistic, high-quality results. Our experienced team understands that each person is unique. We personalise our treatment protocols to provide you with a permanent laser hair removal experience that meets your needs and expectations.
Final results will generally be seen approximately 12 months after the last session, and will vary depending on individual factors. Our aim is to help you achieve smoother, hair-free skin that lasts.
Treatment modalities
• Sensation of sunburn : The treated areas are marked by redness (erythema), a sensation of heat, and a discrete swelling at the base of the hairs (perifollicular oedema) which appear immediately after the session and can persist from a few hours to 72 hours: these reactions are normal and often testify to the effectiveness of the procedure. Their importance varies from one patient to another.
• Scabs may appear in the 2-3 days following the treatment; care should be taken not to rub the skin or expose it to the sun. They are transient and flake off within a few days, but may leave a slight change in skin colour (hypo- or hyper-pigmentation disappearing within a few weeks).
• Paradoxical stimulation, which refers to the appearance of hair (rather fine and long) on a non-depilated area of the face or body, but close to the treated area.
• Very rarely a superficial burn (with vesicles) is possible: it will heal in a few weeks, usually under medical supervision. The appearance of permanent scars is exceptional. In the event of the appearance of vesicles (blisters), it is necessary to contact your laser doctor as soon as possible.
• Darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation) marks may appear after the treatment and generally regress within a few weeks to months. They appear in particular on darker skin, in areas of friction or in the event of non-compliance with sun-related instructions.
Specific contraindications to 755nm (Alexandrite) :
• Tanned, tanned skin
• Recent sun/UV exposure (1 month)
Specific contraindication to 1064nm (Nd: YAG) :
• Recent sun/UV exposure (1 week)
General contraindications :
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: this is not a contraindication in itself, but it is not the best time to treat (we wait until after the return from childbirth with hormonal stabilisation).
• Application of self-tanner 2 weeks before the session.
• Application or oral intake of essential oils 2 weeks before the session (deodorants, oils, etc.).
• Medication that induces photosensitivity (vitamin A, all forms of beta-carotene, certain antibiotics, etc.). Stop the medication if possible for 3 to 5 days before treatment: risk of alteration of the pigmentation and/or burning.
• Application of topicals such as fruit acids, retinol 48 hours before the session.
• Sauna / Hammam / Scrubbing / Chemical / mechanical peelings recent (1 week)
• Damaged, dehydrated, weakened treatment area.
• Naevus (> 3 mm) or suspicious lesion or herpes on the treatment area.
• Dyeing of clothing (jeans, tights, etc.)
General precautions :
• The treated area must be perfectly clean and dry.
• Patients suffering from vitiligo must inform the doctor as they risk developing a Koebner phenomenon (appearance of permanent white spots on the areas treated by laser).
• Superficial metallic implants on the area to be treated (pins, screws…) (Delimitation to 5 cm).
• Tattoos – Permanent and semi-permanent make-up (2 cm limit)
• Provide preventive treatment for patients with recurrent herpes for facial treatment.
– Hormonal harmonisation and age : Since hair growth is closely linked to hormones, it is advisable to approach hormonal maturity before considering permanent laser hair removal. Generally speaking, around the age of 25 for women and 35 for men is an ideal time.
– Pre-mature hormonal serenity: Before reaching this stage, hormonal fluctuations may lead to temporary hair regrowth. However, if you opt for an earlier laser hair removal session, it could work well. The exact number of sessions remains to be determined, however.
– A targeted solution : Our approach to laser hair removal at the Basel/Saint-Louis laser hair removal centre targets the annoying consequences of hair growth, without upsetting your hormonal balance. Even if imbalances do occur, they can influence the hair cycle, which could eventually grow back after the sessions are over.
– Early start in specific cases : In cases of excessive hair growth, laser hair removal sessions can be considered from adolescence onwards. In this case, parental consent is required. Although the results may not be perfectly satisfactory, we are here to guide you and personalise each stage.
At the Basel/Saint-LouislLaser hair removal center, we’re here to support you with expertise and compassion in your quest for smooth, carefree skin. Our specialists will tailor your sessions to suit your situation, with the aim of achieving results that will restore your self-confidence.
Paradoxical stimulation refers to the appearance of hair (rather fine and long) on a non-epilated area of the face or body, but close to the treated area. It can occur after hair removal with pulsed light, laser, wax, electric epilator, or even after shaving or tweezing.
Paradoxical re-growth is extremely unpleasant for patients as it forces them to extend the treatment time. However, it is quite possible to remove this hair effectively by following a strict protocol.
Certain areas of the human body are more prone to paradoxical regrowth. These are generally areas that are particularly sensitive to hormones:
– In men, it is the upper back and shoulders.
– In women, it is the lower jaw, neck, cheekbones, inner and upper thighs, around the areolas and the umbilical line between the navel and the pubic bone.
To reduce the risk of paradoxical regrowth caused by the spread of the heat emitted by the laser, ice cubes should be used for a few minutes on the area to be treated and the surrounding areas to cool them down. The same step should be repeated at the end of the session.
When paradoxical stimulation occurs, it is important to maintain the consistency of the sessions. At least four initial sessions spaced two to three weeks apart are recommended, followed by a six-week break. This protocol significantly reduces regrowth, making it more manageable and possibly eliminable in subsequent sessions.
The personalisation of laser treatments plays a key role in managing paradoxical stimulation. In collaboration with our team of expert doctors at the Basel/Saint-Louis laser hair removal center, you can anticipate and effectively manage this phenomenon to achieve satisfactory, long-lasting hair removal results.
Laser hair removal differs from pulsed light hair removal in that it is precisely targeted using a single coherent wavelength, offering higher efficacy and increased safety by specifically targeting hair follicles. Unlike pulsed light, the laser effectively reduces hair regrowth, with fewer sessions required and longer-lasting results. Its ability to adapt to different skin and hair types makes it a more reliable option.
In contrast, pulsed light uses a range of inconsistent wavelengths, resulting in less predictable results, increased skin risks and more frequent maintenance sessions, limiting its overall effectiveness compared to laser.
Our expert laser hair removal doctors in Basel/Saint-Louis have undergone university training to enable them to use the latest-generation medical lasers in complete safety.
Here is a detailed list of points to consider regarding the results of IPL hair removal, including the associated risks:
1. Rapid regrowth : The results of IPL hair removal are not as long-lasting as laser hair removal, as hair tends to grow back quickly. Treatments will need to be repeated every 3 or even 2 years.
2. Need for Maintenance Sessions : Due to the rapid re-growth of hair, IPL hair removal often requires frequent maintenance sessions to maintain results.
3. Less precise targeting : Intense Pulsed Light targets hair less precisely than laser, which can lead to uneven regrowth and less consistent results.
4. Longer treatments required : Due to rapid regrowth and less precise targeting, IPL sessions may take longer to achieve results comparable to laser hair removal.
5. Variable effectiveness : Intense Pulsed Light results can vary depending on factors such as hair colour, thickness and skin type.
6. Less Density Reduction : Although Intense Pulsed Light can reduce hair density, laser hair removal generally offers a more significant and long-lasting reduction.
7. High Frequency of Use : Due to rapid re-growth, Intense Pulsed Light devices often need to be used more frequently to maintain results, which can be restrictive in the long term.
8. Less Adaptability : Intense Pulsed Light may not be equally effective on all hair and skin types, limiting its adaptability to different people and situations. The technology is not compatible with dark skin or light-coloured hair.
9. Recurring Uncomfortable Sensations : Due to the need for more frequent sessions, the uncomfortable sensations experienced during Intense Pulsed Light hair removal may become more recurrent.
10. High Maintenance Costs : The more frequent maintenance sessions required with Intense Pulsed Light may result in higher long-term costs compared to laser hair removal.
11. Increased Skin Risks : Intense pulsed light may result in a higher risk of burns, skin irritation and allergic reactions due to its variable efficacy and less precise targeting.
In short, although IPL hair removal can offer a temporary reduction in hair regrowth, laser hair removal remains the preferred method for longer-lasting, consistent results that are less restrictive in terms of treatment frequency, while presenting fewer potential skin risks.
Clarity II has continuous temperature sensing to avoid over-heating during the treatment. It also has built-in cryogen to provide cold air during the treatment to help reduce any pain. Alexandrite -Nd-Yag Laser Hair Removal is much less painful than IPL or Diode. Therefore, numbing medication is not required.
In general, a preliminary test is not required for permanent laser hair removal at the Biolaser centre in Basel/Saint-Louis. However, there are special cases where a test may be recommended to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. These situations include:
– Tanning of the Skin : If you have recently been exposed to the sun or have a tan, it is advisable to carry out a test to assess your skin’s reaction.
– Very Dull or Pigmented Skin : Darker skin types may react differently to laser treatment, so a test will ensure that your skin tolerates the treatment well.
– Fair or light-coloured hair : Hair with little pigmentation may be less receptive to the laser. A test can determine whether the treatment is effective for you.
– Doubts about Skin Reaction : If you have a history of skin reactions, doubts about your sensitivity or questions about how your skin reacts, a test can provide answers.
When a test is carried out, it is used to assess two crucial aspects. Firstly, skin tolerance is monitored for 48 hours after treatment to detect any signs of discomfort such as crusting, burning or bubbling. In addition, the effectiveness of the treatment is assessed by observing hair loss in the treated area around 10-15 days after the test. This personalised approach guarantees optimal results when it comes to permanent laser hair removal.
Using the Alexandrite-Nd-YAG hair removal laser near moles is generally not dangerous. Although hair-removal lasers emit specific wavelengths that mainly target the melanin in hair without harming adjacent tissue, as a precautionary measure, it is recommended to protect or avoid areas containing moles.
Nevae contain melanin, which can react in unexpected ways when exposed to laser light. Potential risks include changes to the colour, texture or even rupture of the nevus. Some professionals may avoid treating nevi directly with the laser to avoid these risks.
The main risks to moles are more related to UV exposure, as hair removal lasers operate at safe wavelengths. However, regular monitoring of moles is essential to detect any changes.
The paradoxical hair regrowth, where hair growth intensifies after laser treatment, can be influenced by several factors, including :
– Skin and Hair Type: Individuals with darker skin or thicker hair may have an increased risk of paradoxical regrowth.
– Hormones: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can play a role in hair regrowth.
– Hirsutism: People with excessive hair growth due to hormonal factors may be more susceptible to experiencing paradoxical regrowth.
– Incorrect Laser Settings: Incorrect laser settings during the initial treatment can contribute to paradoxical regrowth.
– Stimulation of Dormant Follicles: Laser treatment can stimulate follicles that were previously inactive.
– Skin Reactions: Inflammatory reactions to laser treatment can trigger increased hair regrowth.
– Melanin Reaction: Melanin, present in the skin and hair, can react unexpectedly to the laser.
– Genetics: Genetic predisposition can play a role in hair regrowth.
– Use of Inappropriate Equipment: Low-quality or poorly suited equipment can contribute to paradoxical regrowth.
– Individual Factors: Each person reacts differently to laser treatments, and some may be more prone to paradoxical regrowth than others.
To minimize the risk of paradoxical regrowth, it is crucial to consult an experienced professional in laser hair removal, use high-quality equipment, and adopt a personalized approach based on your skin and hair type and medical history.
Laser hair removal only works on dark, melanin-rich hair. In some cases, electrolysis is necessary:
– In case of white, very light or red hair, only electric hair removal is possible.
– In the case of hair that is too fine (such as down).
– In case of dark but isolated hair on the face (especially upper lip, cheeks, sideburns) to avoid paradoxical regrowth.
– Electric hair removal is done hair by hair, hence the difficulty in treating large areas.
PRICES – LASER HAIR REMOVAL
Facial laser hair removal :
| Areas | Prices |
|---|---|
| Eyebrows | 70 € |
| Between the eyebrows | 30 € |
| Upper lip | 60 € |
| Cheeks | 80 € |
| Chin | 60 € |
| Neck | 90 € |
| Back of the neck | 90 € |
Laser Hair Removal – Full Body :
| Areas | Prices |
|---|---|
| Breast areolas | 70 € |
| Strict Subumbilical Midline | 70 € |
| Enlarged midline (belly) | 90 € |
Upper Body Laser Hair Removal :
| Areas | Prices |
|---|---|
| Underarms | 90 € |
| Full Arms | 240 € |
| Forearms | 160 € |
| Seasonal Forearms (Hair Bleaching) | 150 € |
| Back of Hands | 50 € |
Lower Limb Laser Hair Removal :
The feet and knees are included in the price for full legs, half legs, and thighs: you don’t need to add anything.
| Areas | Prices |
|---|---|
| Half legs | 240 € |
| Quarter thighs: 1 area (e.g., back of thighs) | 140 € |
| Half thighs: 2 areas (e.g., back of thighs + inner thighs) | 190 € |
| Full thighs > 2 areas | 240 € |
| Full Legs | 390 € |
Laser Hair Removal for Bikini and Buttocks :
| Areas | Prices |
|---|---|
| Intergluteal Fold | 50 € |
| Buttocks | 150 € |
| Classic or high-cut bikini wax | 110 € |
| Brazilian or full bikini wax | 150 € |
Laser Hair Removal for Men’s Face :
| Areas | Prices |
|---|---|
| Nose or ears | 70 € |
| Beard outline | 120 € |
| Neckline | 65 € |
| Full Beard | 160 € |
| Nape of Neck | 120 € |
Laser Hair Removal for Men’s Body :
| Areas | Prices |
|---|---|
| Underarms | 90 € |
| Shoulders | 150 € |
| Upper back | 150 € |
| Lower back | 150 € |
| Full Back | 290 € |
| Chest | 250 € |
| Abdomen | 250 € |
| Buttocks | 180 € |
| Intergluteal Fold | 90 € |
| Men’s bikini line | 180 € |
Laser Hair Removal Package for Women
Facial Package :
| Package | Prices |
|---|---|
| Upper lip + chin | 90 € |
| Upper lip + chin + cheeks (= face) | 150 € |
| Face + Neck | 190 € |
Bikini Package :
| Package | Prices |
|---|---|
| Classic or High-cut Bikini + Underarms | 160 € |
| Brazilian or Full Bikini + Underarms | 190 € |
Half Leg Package :
| Package | Prices |
|---|---|
| Half Legs + Underarms | 290 € |
| Half Legs + Classic or High-cut Bikini | 320 € |
| Half Legs + Brazilian or Full Bikini | 340 € |
| Half Legs + Classic or High-Cut Bikini + Underarms | 370 € |
| Half Legs + Brazilian or Full Bikini + Underarms | 390 € |
Full Leg Package:
| Package | Prices |
|---|---|
| Full Legs + Underarms | 450 € |
| Full Legs + Classic or High-cut Bikini | 480 € |
| Full Legs + Brazilian or Full Bikini | 500 € |
| Full Legs + Classic or High-cut Bikini + Underarms | 540 € |
| Full Legs + Brazilian or Full Bikini + Underarms | 560 € |
Men’s Laser Hair Removal Package
| Package | Prices |
|---|---|
| Full Back + Shoulders | 450 € |
| Full Back + Shoulders + Arms | 590 € |
| Full Back + Chest + Abdomen | 590 € |
| Chest + Abdomen | 390 € |
| Buttocks + Intergluteal Fold | 260 € |
| Bikini + Intergluteal Fold | 220 € |
| Buttocks + Bikini + Intergluteal Fold | 320 € |
| Underarms + Bikini | 240 € |
