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What is Laser Hair Removal?
Until the last few years, shaving,
plucking, waxing, and electrolysis were the only methods
of removing unwanted hair. In the early 1990's, the
first reports of using laser energy to selectively damage
and disable actively growing hair follicles were published,
and since the mid 1990's, laser hair removal has become
the "Gold Standard" method for hair removal.
How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?
There are several laser hair removal
systems available today, but they all work using the
principal of selective photothermolysis, in which a
carefully timed pulse of laser energy passes through
the skin and is absorbed and converted to heat energy
at the hair follicle. The generated heat energy is designed
to destroy the hair follicle so it cannot grow back.
Who is the Best Candidate for Laser
Hair Removal?
Laser Hair Removal works best in lighter
skinned, darker haired patients. Because the primary
target in hair follicles is melanin pigment, less laser
energy is absorbed by the skin and more by the hair
follicle. Tanned skin also "robs" laser energy
as it passes through the skin to the hair follicle.
Because the pigment in the hair is the target for the
laser energy, gray or white hair (which lacks pigment)
cannot be effectively treated with any laser or light-based
device.
How Many Treatments Are Required?
Multiple laser treatments are necessary
for best results. Laser energy has its greatest effect
on growing, or anagen hair follicles; as the dormant,
or telogen hairs become active, usually within 3 weeks
to 3 months, some new hair growth will be observed.
Usually at least 3 treatments over the course of a year
will be necessary for satisfactory, long-lasting results.
The female face, armpits, and bikini lines are areas
which respond fastest to laser treatments- backs, arms
and legs usually need more treatments over time. The
scalp is very resistant to treatment.
What About Side Effects?
Slight reddening and local swelling
of the skin, similar to a sunburn, may occur in some
clients. These effects typically last 24 hours or less.
In some instances, blistering may occur. Your consultant
will review with you the potential side effects from
Laser Hair Removal.
Before
and After Photos
Photos are of actual patients, but
not necessarily patients at any specific current or
past SKINovative® location.
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