An Alexandrite laser hair removal session carried out by a certified team

Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal: the complete guide for 2026

Laser Hair Removal By the BFI Team · 12′ read · Updated: July 2026

If you are looking for a permanent solution to hair removal, the Alexandrite laser is almost certainly the technology that specialists will recommend to you — especially if you have a Mediterranean skin type. In this guide you will find everything you need to know before your first appointment: how it works, how many sessions you will need, what you will feel and how to prepare properly.

What the Alexandrite laser is and how it works

The Alexandrite laser emits light at a wavelength of 755nm, which is selectively absorbed by the melanin of the hair. The light energy is converted into heat, destroys the hair follicle and prevents regrowth — without injuring the surrounding skin. Because it targets the root and not just the visible part of the hair, the result is progressive and permanent.

Each pulse covers a small area in fractions of a second, while the integrated cooling system protects the epidermis and makes the session comfortable even in sensitive areas.

Why it is ideal for Mediterranean skin

The combination of a light to medium phototype with dark, dense hair — the classic "Mediterranean profile" — is exactly where the Alexandrite excels. High absorption in melanin means that less energy is needed for the same result, and therefore faster and more comfortable sessions than with other technologies.

"In practice, most of our clients see 20–30% thinning after the very first session. The key is being consistent with the appointments and preparing the skin properly."
— BFI Team

How many sessions you will need

The number depends on the area, the hormonal factor and the growth cycle of the hair — the laser only "catches" hairs that are in the growth phase. As a guide:

AreaSessions (avg.)Duration
Underarms6–8~10′
Legs6–8~30′
Bikini6–8~20′
Face8–12~15′
Back & chest6–8~25′

Appointments are scheduled every 4–8 weeks, so that we "catch" each new hair cycle at the right phase.

Underarm hair removal with the Alexandrite laser — a fast 10-minute session
The underarms are one of the fastest areas — less than 10 minutes per session.

Does it hurt? What you will feel during the session

The sensation is usually described as a momentary "flick of an elastic band" accompanied by heat — and thanks to the cooling of the handpiece, most of the time not even that. The more sensitive areas (bikini, upper lip) can be more noticeable, but the speed of the session makes them entirely manageable.

Before and after the session: practical instructions

  • Before: shave the area 24 hours beforehand — never wax or tweezers in the last 4 weeks.
  • Before: no need to stay out of the sun — tell our team about any recent tanning.
  • After: moisturiser, a mild cleanser and SPF 50 on exposed areas.
  • After: no sauna, hammam or intense exercise for 24–48 hours.

FAQ

Is the result permanent?

Once the programme is complete, the reduction in hair growth is permanent in the vast majority of cases. Hormonal changes can cause sparse regrowth, which is covered by 1–2 maintenance sessions a year.

Can I have laser in the summer?

Yes. Our system does not require you to stay out of the sun, so the programme runs normally all year round. Our team adapts the settings to your skin in every season.

I have waxed recently — when can I start?

About 4 weeks need to pass, so that the root of the hair grows again and the laser has a "target". Shaving, by contrast, is perfectly fine right up to 24 hours beforehand.

BFI
BFI Team Certified professionals with 15+ years of experience in aesthetic medicine and laser hair removal.

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