Laser hair removal is an effective way of getting rid of unwanted hair for the long term. A laser beam is used to destroy the hair follicles so that the hair does not grow back. Here are answers to the questions we are asked most often:
Is it permanent? Yes — laser hair removal gives permanent results after a course of sessions.
Does it hurt? Most people describe a prickling sensation, but the discomfort is entirely bearable. The latest-generation lasers used at Dr Ghali’s centre incorporate a cooling system, which makes the session more comfortable still.
How long does a session take? A session usually takes no more than 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
How many sessions are needed? The number varies with the area and the skin type, but 4 to 8 sessions on average are needed for results that last.
Can it be used anywhere on the body? Yes — laser hair removal suits almost every part of the body, including the face, the legs, the underarms and the bikini area.
Are there side effects? The usual side effects are mild, temporary redness or irritation, and they settle very quickly.
Does it work out cheaper in the long run? It calls for an initial outlay, but over time it costs less than buying hair removal products again and again.
In short, laser hair removal is a practical and lasting way to be rid of unwanted hair.
Introduction and initial discussion: we start by talking through what you are hoping for and your medical history.
Assessment of your skin and hair: your skin type and the pigmentation of the hair are assessed precisely, so that the treatment can be set up for you.
A full explanation of the procedure: we take you through how laser hair removal works, and you can ask whatever you want to ask.
Preparing the area: the area is prepared carefully, including shaving, so that the laser works as it should.
Setting the laser: the laser parameters are adjusted precisely to your particular characteristics.
Aftercare: we go through how to look after your skin after the session.
Costs and treatment plan, stated plainly: we set out clearly what each session costs and draw up a treatment plan for you.
Informed consent: the potential risks are discussed in full before your consent is sought.
In short, the laser hair removal consultation is conducted so that you understand the process and what you can expect from it.
Dr Ghali’s centre is equipped with current-generation machines, able to carry out safe and effective hair removal on every skin type, from the fairest to the darkest.
The Alexandrite laser, suited to skin types 1, 2 and 3, emits a wavelength of 750 nm. It generates intense heat on contact with the melanin in the hair, which destroys the follicle.
The Nd:YAG laser, with a wavelength of 1064 nm, is less intense than the Alexandrite, which makes it the safe choice for olive to black skin (types 4, 5 and 6).
Each machine has an air-cooling system, which keeps the treatment comfortable.
Laser hair removal uses laser pulses to destroy the hair follicles and prevent regrowth. The light emitted is absorbed by the melanin in the follicles, which damages them and stops the hair growing.
That depends on individual tolerance and on the area being treated. Most people describe a light prickling or burning sensation, which is usually eased by the cooling system built into the laser.
That depends on the size of the area being treated, but a session generally takes no more than 30 minutes. Several sessions are needed to get the best out of the treatment.
Laser hair removal is regarded as permanent, since it damages the follicles and prevents regrowth. A few hairs may remain, and a short annual top-up session is sometimes needed.
Before a session, limit your exposure to the sun and to sunbeds, avoid creams or skincare products containing acids, and tell the practitioner about any medication you are taking. After a session, simply apply sun cream for 48 hours.
4 to 8 sessions on average are needed for permanent laser hair removal.
€40 for the upper lip or the chin, around €115 for the full face, €330 for the legs and €105 for the bikini area.
Shave the areas to be treated 24 to 48 hours before each session. Shaving helps the laser target the pigment (melanin) in the follicle selectively while sparing the surface of the skin, which limits the risk of a burn or of damage.
Sun exposure after a session is not advised: UVA and UVB rays can stimulate the deeper tissue of the dermis and cause changes in it. Avoiding the sun altogether is important if the treatment is to work without complications.
Aesthetic medicine and laser — Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Registered with the French Medical Council (Ordre des médecins).
Page last reviewed 8 September 2026.
The consultation is where we examine your skin, make sure nothing rules the treatment out, and tell you whether this technique is the right answer to what you are asking for.
