Facial laser hair removal is one of the most widely used treatments to reduce or permanently remove unwanted hair. The presence of facial hair can be uncomfortable for women, men, trans, and non-binary people alike. Laser technology can target hair on the beard, between the eyebrows, cheeks, sideburns, upper lip, nose, and even the forehead. In this article, we’ll explain what laser or IPL hair removal is and what it can achieve for facial hair removal.
What is laser hair removal and how does it work?
Laser hair removal is a highly effective treatment for eliminating unwanted hair. Facial laser hair removal uses a concentrated beam of light that is directed and absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicle. The heat damages the follicle and reduces its ability to produce new hair.
The laser only works on hair in the active growth phase, which is why several sessions (depending on the person) spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart are necessary to achieve good results. While permanent hair reduction is achieved, in some cases an annual maintenance session may be recommended. It’s also important to note that laser hair removal is not effective on very light or white hair.
This type of hair removal is the most effective and long-lasting when it comes to removing facial hair or beards in trans women, especially when the hair is dark and the skin is light.
Types of facial hair removal lasers and IPL
There are different types of lasers for facial hair removal, and the choice depends on skin type, hair type, and personal characteristics. Each one uses a different wavelength, which determines its affinity for melanin and how deeply it penetrates the skin.
Alexandrite Laser (755 nm)
Emits a medium wavelength light, effective on dark hair and light skin. This type of laser usually requires fewer sessions than other systems.
Diode Laser (800–810 nm)
Has a longer wavelength, allowing deeper penetration. It is versatile and used on different skin phototypes, including lighter and darker tones.
Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm)
This wavelength is the longest used in hair removal, which allows deeper penetration and less absorption by skin melanin. This makes it useful for darker skin types.
Ruby Laser (694 nm)
One of the first laser devices used for hair removal, emitting a deep red light. Today, it is rarely used. Works best on light skin with dark hair.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Although not a laser, IPL uses a broad spectrum of light that, when filtered, can act on hair melanin. It is less specific than a laser but can be useful for treating different hair types and larger areas.
What effects does hormone therapy have on facial hair?
In trans women starting hormone therapy with estrogens and anti-androgens, hormones help reduce hair thickness and growth speed on the body. However, they usually do not completely eliminate facial hair or beards if they developed before transitioning. Follicles stimulated by testosterone during puberty remain active and require a specific treatment such as laser hair removal, especially in trans women, for complete removal.
When is facial laser hair removal recommended in gender transition?
For trans women or non-binary people assigned male at birth, laser hair removal is usually recommended when they want to eliminate beard growth that hormone therapy cannot remove. Starting soon after beginning hormone therapy can accelerate aesthetic results and reduce beard shadow.
In trans men, facial laser hair removal may also be recommended to shape the beard or in cases of chronic irritation from shaving.
Pre- and post-laser treatment care
If you are a trans person undergoing hormone therapy, it’s important to inform the specialist before starting facial laser hair removal. You should also avoid root hair removal (waxing, tweezing, or other methods) for 4 weeks before the treatment and avoid sun exposure or tanning beds immediately before and after the session. For some laser types, this restriction may extend to two weeks before and after treatment. After each session, hydrate and protect the treated skin, and avoid using irritating products for the first few days.
Contraindications and precautions with laser
Facial laser hair removal is not recommended in areas with active infections, open wounds, or sunburned skin. It should also be avoided if the skin is very tanned, if you’ve just sunbathed, or if you plan to do so shortly after the session. Additionally, in cases of severe photosensitivity or certain dermatological conditions, it’s best to follow the advice of a medical specialist.
It is essential to undergo treatment in a specialized center with experience in laser hair removal during gender transition. This ensures the protocol can be adapted to each person’s individual needs.
Facial and beard laser hair removal is a safe, effective, and long-lasting treatment for eliminating hair — even in trans people, who may not achieve full removal through hormone therapy alone. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to contact IM GENDER.
