Overview Of Laser Hair Removal Treatment Procedure
Are you one of thousands who are relegated to daily plucking of unwanted facial hair? Ladies, do you dread getting the razor out for the beginning of bathing suit season? Guys, are you embarrassed to take off your shirt because of excessive back hair? At Dermatology Consultants, you can lay down all that stress and dread with hair reduction treatments.
The latest technology in laser hair removal is at Dermatology Consultants.
We’ve tested, and used many types of lasers in our office. Most recently we have found the StarLux 500 IPL device to be at the top of the list of effective and safe treatment options. A series of five treatments, done at 4 to 6-week intervals, is recommended, and the best time of year to start these treatments is the Fall/Winter because skin color is the lightest during those months. This keeps the safety of laser hair removal very high, and also assures a more successful treatment series. Touchups are usually required, and are solely based on the desires of the individual.
Put the tweezers down and back away slowly! Call one of our expert patient coordinators today to find out more on the latest in laser hair removal technology.
Laser Hair Removal FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What areas can you treat with the laser?
The GentleLASE can successfully treat just about any area on the body. Delicate areas (such as shaping the eyebrows) are difficult to treat because of the size of the laser beam.
Does the treatment hurt?
Most people who have had treatment with the GentleLASE describe the sensation as grease splattering or a rubber band popping on their skin. Of course, there are certain factors that increase the discomfort, such as sensitive areas on the face or thicker, more densely populated areas. A cooling device is used with the laser that blows cool air in the skin and greatly reduces the stinging sensation.
How long does a treatment take?
This too depends upon the area desired for treatment. Usually treatments range from 10 to 30 minutes, and longer if treating the back or legs.
How does the laser work?
The GentleLASE targets melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle, and generates energy in the form of heat at the root of the hair. When multiple treatments are done on the same area, the follicles are damaged so their ability to grow a normal hair is affected. Since individual responses may vary, treatment plans may need to be extended, but in most cases touch up treatments will be necessary to maintain the level of reduction desired.
How many treatments will I need?
We are encouraging our patients to go through at least 5 treatments in order to achieve the most positive results. Occasionally more will be recommended.
How often is treatment necessary?
The optimum treatment plans are at 1-month intervals. Waiting longer than 5 weeks between treatments reduces the efficiency, which will affect the response level and ultimately could result in requiring additional treatments.
How long will the results last?
Of course this also varies from person to person, but reports have indicated that a patient can enjoy the results obtained anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. The hair that does grow back is likely to be much lighter in color and texture than the original hair.
Is the laser safe for darker skin types?
The GentleLASE laser has been shown to be safe for most skin types. Naturally, caution is exercised when treating darker skin, to avoid unwanted reactions on the skin.
Will sunlight affect the treatments?
Exposure to UV light from the sun or tanning bed affects the reactions on the skin, and definitely can affect results from the treatment. It is strongly recommended that during treatment cycles, patients use extreme caution concerning their exposure to UV light.
Will I look bad after the treatment?
No, the majority of the time the skin shows very little reaction. Immediately following the treatment you may see a little swelling directly around the hair follicle (we call this “follicular edema”) and slight redness around the area treated. This reaction usually disappears within a few hours, and can be covered with makeup. Occasionally, a more intense response may be seen, in which case “bumps” appear like chigger bites and last a day or two, or the swelling may last a little longer. This more severe reaction is more likely to be seen in areas such as legs or bikini.
I am waxing or plucking now. Is this okay to continue if I want to have treatment with the GentleLASE?
Waxing and plucking should be discontinued for at least 3 to 4 weeks prior to the first treatment and throughout the process. If it is unreasonable for you to stop all methods of hair removal, you can shave the areas to be treated. Shaving the area the morning of the treatment day is recommended so the laser can focus the energy to the proper depth. Cream depilatories can leave the skin extra sensitive, so they too should be avoided.
What if shaving makes my hair grow back thicker or darker?
This common belief is a fallacy. Shaving the hair does not affect the pattern of growth. It could appear to be thicker simply because the hair is thicker at the point closest to the actual follicle, which is where it is usually shaved.
What is the cost of treatments?
Discounts are offered when purchasing treatment packages or multiple area packages. Individual treatments can be purchased, but are discouraged since multiple treatments are almost always required. Prices start as low as $120 per treatment (package price).
How much is the consultation?
The initial consultation is free of charge and is done by the technician who performs the actual laser procedure. A doctor is always on site when treatments are done, and will come in to meet you at the time of your consultation.
