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Laser hair removal during transition

In laser hair removal, light of a specific wavelength is absorbed by melanin in the hair root.

Action

In laser hair removal, light of a specific wavelength is absorbed by melanin in the hair root. The heat damages the hair follicle so that hair growth diminishes. It works best on dark hairs on light skin; for light or grey hairs it is less effective.

Treatment course

Effective beard epilation requires multiple sessions — usually eight to twelve — spread over one to two years, because only hairs in the active growth phase respond. The result is a substantial but rarely complete reduction; for permanent removal, additional electrolysis is often used.

Before genital surgery

In preparation for vaginoplasty using scrotal or perineal skin, complete hair removal of the skin to be transplanted is required, to prevent hair growth in the neovagina. This is usually done with electrolysis, sometimes in combination with laser.

Reimbursement in the Netherlands

Beard hair removal may fall under the basic insurance under conditions in cases of established gender dysphoria. Conditions and the number of reimbursed sessions differ per health insurer.