Permanent Laser Hair Removal (FOTONA)

Permanent hair reduction using the FOTONA 4D Nd:YAG laser, which selectively targets melanin in hair follicles to disable their growth capacity without damaging surrounding skin. The Nd:YAG wavelength (1064 nm) is effective across a broad range of skin tones, including darker skin types where some other laser wavelengths carry higher risk. AE Derm offers hair removal on face, underarms, bikini line, legs and other body areas, with treatment spaced to match the hair growth cycle.

Laser hair removal works on the principle of selective photothermolysis: the laser emits a wavelength that is preferentially absorbed by the melanin pigment in the hair shaft and follicle. When the light energy is absorbed and converted to heat, the follicle is damaged or destroyed sufficiently to prevent regrowth, while the surrounding skin — which contains far less melanin — absorbs minimal energy and is not injured. To be destroyed, the follicle must be in the active growth phase (anagen), which is why multiple sessions are required: at any given time only a proportion of hairs in an area are in anagen, so a series of treatments over time addresses successive cohorts. At AE Derm MUDr. Helena Závodská uses the Nd:YAG 1064 nm mode of the FOTONA 4D system. Nd:YAG is notable for its deeper penetration compared to shorter wavelengths, allowing it to reach bulb-depth follicles even through a longer light path. It is also the preferred wavelength for tanned and darker skin tones, as its lower melanin absorption coefficient reduces epidermal heat build-up that can cause hyperpigmentation in those skin types. For patients with very light, grey or red hair — which contain little eumelanin — the treatment is less effective, and this is discussed at consultation. Sessions are spaced four to eight weeks apart depending on the body area and the hair growth cycle there. Face and upper lip cycles run faster than legs or back, so intervals differ. Most areas reach significant permanent reduction — typically 80 to 90 per cent fewer hairs — after six to eight sessions, with occasional annual maintenance thereafter. Immediately after treatment the skin may appear red and follicle swelling is common; this settles within hours. Sun avoidance and SPF use are essential in the weeks before and after each session to prevent transient pigment changes. Shaving (not waxing or plucking) is required in the days before each appointment so that the energy is directed at the follicle rather than the surface shaft.