How does it work?
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The powerful light emitted by the laser
is absorbed primarily by the pigment located in the hair follicle. The laser is
pulsed, or "turned on", for only a fraction of a second. The duration of each pulse
is just so long that light is absorbed by the follicle, thereby damaging it, but
not long enough that excess heat is transferred to the skin surrounding the hair
follicle. The result is safe and effective hair removal.
Who can have the treatments?
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Generally safe and effective for all
skin colors and pigmented hair which is great news for both men and women who want
to get rid of excess hair.
What causes excess hair?
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Hair grows in cycles and many factors
influence its growth. Age, ethnicity, medications, hormone levels, time of the year,
and even body site all influence the length, coarseness, and color of body hair.
How much hair you see depends on how many hairs are in their active growth cycle
and how long that cycle lasts.
Is it permanent?
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The laser works by disabling hairs that
are in their active growth cycle at the time of treatment. Since other hairs will
enter their growth cycles at different times, additional treatments will be necessary
to disable all of the follicles in a given area. The number of treatments required
depends on several factors related to skin types, color, thickness and density of
hair. Recent studies have shown that from 5 to 8 treatments are needed to
destroy the majority of hair in any given area, but patients are often happy with
results after fewer treatments, as their hair tends to become thinner and lighter
with even 3 treatments. A realistic goal is 50% - 75% permanent reduction.
Does it hurt?
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Some people experience a sensation described
as “the snap of a rubber band” during treatment. Local anesthesia with a cream can
be used for sensitive areas.
Are there any side affects?
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Most people experience no side effects
at all, though a few exhibit some short-term local reddening of the surrounding
skin. You can return to your regular activities immediately after treatment. You
will review all of your concerns in your personal consultation with one of our technicians.
How much does it cost?
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Costs vary based on the area to be treated.
Laser can be more economical, in the long run compared to other hair removal methods.
The cost of your treatment can be determined at your personal consultation.
How do I know if I am a good candidate?
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Avoid tanning (use SPF 30), no tweezing,
waxing, threading or electrolysis for 4 weeks prior to first treatment.
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The pigment of the hair should be darker
then pigment of the skin for best results.
Do I have to let the hair grow out?
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The hair has to be a growing target
in order for the laser to heat it and the follicle up, therefore no waxing, plucking
or electrolysis. It is best if you come for treatment clean shaven, so there
is no target (hair) above the skin.
Hair removal fact: Shaving will
NOT make the hair grow back in faster, darker or thicker! This is just an "old wives
tale".
What to expect?
The length of a laser treatment may last anywhere from a few minutes to an hour
or more, depending on the size of the area being treated. It is important
to know that the hairs in an active growth phase (anagen phase) are most affected
by the laser. As all hairs are not in this phase at the same time, more than one
treatment will be necessary to achieve the best results.
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