Laser Hair Removal
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to remove unwanted hair from various parts of the body. We use the EpiLaze Hair Reduction Laser for our Ultimate Solution for Hair Reduction. The EpiLaze contains the 3 “Gold Standard” laser wavelengths (755 Alexandrite, 810 Diode and 1064 nd-Yag) that can permanently reduce and remove unwanted body hair and facial hair on all types of skin.
Procedure:
During laser hair removal, a handheld device emits a laser beam that targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicles. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment, which damages the follicles and inhibits future hair growth.
Indications:
Laser hair removal is suitable for individuals who want to reduce or eliminate unwanted hair on areas such as the face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, back, or chest. It is most effective for individuals with dark hair and light skin, as the laser targets the contrast between the hair pigment and the skin tone.
Contraindications:
Laser hair removal may not be suitable for individuals with certain conditions, including:
1. Pregnancy: It is generally recommended to avoid laser hair removal during pregnancy due to the potential risks to the fetus.
2. Active skin infections or open wounds in the treatment area.
3. Recent sunburn or excessive sun exposure: Tanned skin is more prone to adverse effects.
4. History of keloid scarring.
5. Certain medications: Some medications may increase photosensitivity and make the skin more susceptible to complications.
Side Effects:
While laser hair removal is generally safe, it can have some side effects, including:
1. Temporary skin redness and irritation in the treated area.
2. Mild swelling or discomfort.
3. Changes in skin pigment (hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation) may occur, especially in individuals with darker skin.
4. Rarely, blistering, crusting, or scarring can occur, though these are extremely rare in the hands of experienced professionals.
What to Expect During Treatment:
Before the procedure, protective eyewear is usually provided to shield your eyes from the laser. A cooling gel or a cooling device may be applied to the skin to minimize discomfort.
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During the treatment, the handheld laser device is placed against the skin, and the laser pulses are delivered to the targeted area. The EpiLaze features built-in contact cooling that cools the treatment area before, during and after the treatment. Therefore, most patients experience little to no discomfort during the treatment. However, depending on the thickness of the hair, some patients may feel a warm sting (similar to a rubber band against their skin) as the laser energy penetrates into the hair follicle. The procedure time depends on the size of the treatment area, ranging from a few minutes for small areas to an hour or more for larger areas.
Pain Control:
Most people tolerate laser hair removal well and do not require pain control. However, individuals with sensitive skin or a lower pain threshold may opt for a numbing cream or topical anesthetic before the procedure to minimize discomfort.
Duration of Procedure:
The duration of a laser hair removal session varies depending on the size of the treatment area. Smaller areas like the upper lip or underarms may take just a few minutes, while larger areas like the legs or back may require up to an hour or more.
Recovery Time:
There is typically no significant downtime after laser hair removal. You may experience some redness or mild irritation immediately following the treatment, but this usually subsides within a few hours to a couple of days. You can resume your normal activities immediately, but it's essential to protect your skin from sun exposure and follow post-treatment instructions.
Typical Number of Sessions:
Laser hair removal requires multiple sessions to achieve long-lasting results. The number of sessions needed varies depending on factors such as the individual's hair type, hair color, skin type, and the treatment area. On average, most people require 6 to 8 sessions spaced 4 to 8 weeks apart to achieve optimal results.
Expected Treatment Results:
Laser hair removal provides a gradual reduction in hair growth over time. After each session, you can expect to see a noticeable reduction in hair density and thickness. With each subsequent session, the hair regrowth becomes sparser, finer, and lighter. While laser hair removal can significantly reduce hair growth, some individuals may experience minimal regrowth that is finer and less noticeable.
Post-Treatment Instructions:
After laser hair removal, it's essential to follow these post-treatment instructions:
1. Avoid sun exposure: Protect the treated area from direct sunlight and use sunscreen with a high SPF to minimize the risk of pigmentation changes.
2. Avoid hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms for a day or two following treatment.
3. Avoid harsh chemicals or exfoliants in the treated area.
4. Do not pluck or wax the hair between sessions, but shaving is usually allowed.
5. Follow the recommended treatment schedule and attend all sessions as advised.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a chemical peel?A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure performed by a licensed professional to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck, or hands. It involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the outer layers to exfoliate, revealing smoother, healthier skin underneath.
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How does a chemical peel work?The chemical solution used in a peel causes controlled damage to the skin's outer layers. This stimulates the skin to shed dead cells and prompts the body to produce new collagen and elastin, leading to a rejuvenated and more youthful appearance.
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What skin concerns can be addressed with chemical peels?Chemical peels can help improve various skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, uneven skin tone, pigmentation issues, and mild to moderate acne.
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Are there different types of chemical peels?Yes, chemical peels come in various types and strengths, including superficial, medium, and deep peels. The type of peel used depends on the specific skin concerns being addressed and the desired level of exfoliation.
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How long does a chemical peel procedure take?The duration of a chemical peel procedure can vary depending on the type and depth of the peel being performed. Typically, superficial peels take about 30 minutes, while medium to deep peels may take up to an hour or more.
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Is a chemical peel painful?Most patients experience a mild burning or stinging sensation during the procedure, which subsides relatively quickly. Deeper peels may cause more discomfort, but pain management techniques can be used to minimize any discomfort.
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How long is the recovery period after a chemical peel?The recovery time can vary depending on the depth of the peel. Superficial peels may have little to no downtime, with some redness and peeling that usually resolves within a few days. Medium to deep peels may require a week or more of recovery time, during which the skin may be red, swollen, and peeling.
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Are there any side effects or risks associated with chemical peels?Like any cosmetic procedure, chemical peels carry some risks, such as redness, swelling, irritation, and increased sensitivity to the sun. In rare cases, there might be complications like scarring or infection, especially with deeper peels.
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How many sessions of chemical peels are needed to see results?The number of sessions required depends on the individual's skin condition and the type of peel used. Some people may achieve desired results with a single peel, while others might need a series of peels spaced several weeks apart for optimal results.
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Can anyone get a chemical peel?While chemical peels are generally safe for most skin types, not everyone is a suitable candidate. People with certain skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis, or recent sunburns, may need to avoid chemical peels. It's essential to consult with a qualified professional to determine if a chemical peel is right for you.
