Laser Hair Removal in Maidenhead

Clinical overview

The Alma Titanium is a high-powered diode laser platform designed specifically for hair removal. It uses an 810nm wavelength — the gold standard for targeting melanin in the hair follicle — combined with a large spot size and in-motion technology for fast, comfortable treatment of large areas. The laser energy is absorbed by melanin in the hair shaft, converting to heat that damages the follicle and disrupts future hair growth. Because hair grows in cycles (anagen, catagen, telogen), multiple sessions are needed to target follicles during their active growth phase. Typically 6–8 sessions are recommended, spaced 4–8 weeks apart depending on the body area. The Alma Titanium incorporates ICE Plus cooling technology, which continuously cools the skin surface during treatment. This improves comfort significantly compared to older laser systems and reduces the risk of thermal injury. The system is effective across a wide range of skin types (Fitzpatrick I–V), though very fair or grey hair with minimal melanin may not respond well. Laser hair removal is a medical procedure and should be performed by trained practitioners who understand skin types, contraindications and appropriate energy settings. At Berkshire Aesthetics, all laser treatments are delivered under doctor-led clinical governance.

Key Benefits

• Long-term reduction in unwanted hair growth
• Suitable for face and body — including large areas like legs and back
• ICE Plus cooling technology for improved comfort during treatment
• Fast treatment times — full legs in approximately 30 minutes
• Effective across skin types I–V (Fitzpatrick scale)
• No downtime — return to normal activities immediately
• Reduction in ingrown hairs and folliculitis
• Medical-grade Alma Titanium platform for consistent, safe results

Suitable For

• Adults with unwanted facial or body hair seeking long-term reduction
• Those with dark hair (brown or black) — the laser targets melanin in the hair shaft
• Skin types I–V on the Fitzpatrick scale (fair to olive and light brown skin)
• Patients who experience ingrown hairs, razor bumps or folliculitis from shaving or waxing
• Those wanting to reduce time spent on temporary hair removal methods
• Patients who have realistic expectations about the number of sessions required

Not Suitable For

• Very blonde, red, white or grey hair — these contain insufficient melanin for the laser to target effectively
• Very dark skin (Fitzpatrick VI) without specialist assessment due to increased risk of burns or pigmentation changes
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Those with active skin infections, open wounds or sunburn in the treatment area
• Patients currently using photosensitising medications (e.g., certain antibiotics, retinoids)
• Those who have had recent sun exposure or fake tan on the treatment area
• Anyone with a history of keloid scarring in the treatment area

Final suitability is confirmed during a medical consultation and assessment.

When we don't recommend it

• If your hair is very fair, grey, red or white — the laser cannot effectively target hair with minimal melanin. We will be honest about this at consultation rather than take payment for treatment unlikely to work.
• If you have a recent tan or significant sun exposure — treatment must be delayed to reduce the risk of burns and pigmentation changes.
• If you are on photosensitising medication — treatment needs to be postponed until an appropriate washout period has passed.
• If your skin type carries a higher risk and the treatment area is particularly sensitive — we may recommend test patches or alternative approaches.
• If hormonal conditions are driving hair growth (e.g., PCOS) — we will explain that results may require ongoing maintenance and set realistic expectations.

What Happens During Treatment

1. 1Initial consultation to assess skin type, hair colour, medical history and suitability
2. 2Test patch on a small area (usually required before first full treatment)
3. 3Treatment area is shaved — the laser targets the follicle, not the surface hair
4. 4Protective eyewear provided for both patient and practitioner
5. 5Laser handpiece is passed over the treatment area using in-motion technique with continuous cooling
6. 6Soothing gel or aloe vera applied after treatment
7. 7Aftercare instructions provided and next session scheduled

Downtime & Aftercare

• No downtime — you can return to normal activities immediately
• Mild redness or warmth in the treated area (similar to mild sunburn) typically resolves within a few hours
• Avoid sun exposure and apply SPF 30+ to treated areas for at least 2 weeks
• No hot baths, saunas, steam rooms or intense exercise for 24–48 hours
• Avoid waxing, plucking or threading between sessions — shaving is fine
• Do not apply fake tan, perfumed products or harsh chemicals to the treated area for 48 hours
• Hair may appear to continue growing for 1–2 weeks post-treatment as treated hairs shed naturally

Results Timeline

• After session 1: treated hairs begin shedding over 1–2 weeks.
• After sessions 2–3: noticeable reduction in hair density and growth rate.
• After sessions 4–6: significant reduction — regrowth is finer and sparser.
• After full course (6–8 sessions): 80–90% permanent reduction in treated area.

Individual results vary. View our results and photography standards

Risks & Side Effects

Common, Usually Temporary

• •Redness and mild swelling around follicles (perifollicular oedema) — resolves within hours.
• •Mild warmth or tingling in the treated area.
• •Temporary skin sensitivity.

Frequently Asked Questions