The Place and Importance of Laser Epilation in Hirsutism Treatment?
Ankara Life Polyclinic Specialist Dr. Fatma Yıldız Explains
Hirsutism is the appearance of terminal hair in areas where it should not normally be seen in women—especially in androgenic areas such as the chin, cheeks, chest, back and upper abdomen. This condition, which can be a symptom of many hormonal and systemic reasons, not just cosmetic, requires a comprehensive evaluation and a multidisciplinary treatment plan.

Ankara Life Polyclinic Specialist Dr. Fatma Yıldız draws attention to the contributions of laser epilation to both the physical and psychosocial healing process in patients with hirsutism. Saying, “Laser treatment also has an important place in terms of aesthetic relief and self-confidence gain, in addition to the medical approach,” Dr. Yıldız emphasizes that successful results are obtained especially in idiopathic hirsutism (cases with an unclear cause) and hair growth caused by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Laser Epilation Effect Mechanism
The basic principle on which laser epilation is based is selective photothermolysis. The laser beam is absorbed by the melanin pigment in the hair root and turns into heat, thus causing damage to the hair follicle and preventing hair regrowth. This effect damages the target tissue but does not harm the surrounding tissues. However, for a successful application, technical parameters such as wavelength, pulse duration, energy level, cooling system and spot size must be selected appropriately.

Which Lasers Are Used?
The laser systems applied at Ankara Life Polyclinic offer technologies customized according to skin type and hair color:

Alexandrite Laser (755 nm): Effective in patients with light skin. It provides successful results in terminal hairs on the face in women with PCOS.

Diode Laser (800–810 nm): Effective in both light and wheat skin. It can penetrate deeper and is effective in thick hair.

Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm): The safest option for individuals with dark skin. However, its effectiveness is slightly lower than other types of lasers.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): Although not as focused as laser, it can be an effective alternative in certain cases.

Risk of Paradoxical Hypertrichosis
Although rare, paradoxical hypertrichosis may develop in some women, especially in the facial area and in low-energy laser applications — that is, hair growth may occur in the area where the application is made. This condition is more commonly observed in darker-skinned individuals and in low-energy sessions. Specialist Dr. Fatma Yıldız emphasizes the importance of performing the application with appropriate doses, experienced hands and reliable devices to reduce this risk.

Realistic Expectations in Hirsutism Treatment
Laser epilation provides permanent hair reduction. However, the expectation that all hair will disappear completely or will never grow back is unrealistic. Regular follow-up and repeat sessions may be required, especially in patients with ongoing hormonal imbalances. It has been scientifically proven that an average of 50% permanent reduction is achieved with Alexandrite and Diode lasers within 6 months.

Why Ankara Life Polyclinic?
Ankara Life Polyclinic is one of the centers that stand out with its personalized treatment plans, state-of-the-art devices and expert staff for patients with hirsutism. Laser epilation applications carried out under the leadership of Specialist Dr. Fatma Yıldız have high standards in terms of patient safety, effectiveness and satisfaction.