1. What is laser hair removal?
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Laser hair removal is the permanent reduction of unwanted hair on the body for all types of skin.
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| 2. How is it done? |
It is a procedure performed with intense pulsed light that is picked up by the pigment in the hair, targets the hair follicle and destroys it. These controlled flashes of light penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the hair follicles. The potential for re-growth is minimized.
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| 3. What are the advantages of laser hair removal? |
There are many reasons besides the luxury of not having to shave. Some people are very self-conscious of their hair growth on different parts of their bodies. This is true for both male and female. At times, shaving can be a very painful process especially if it involves folliculitis (infection of the upper portion of the hair follicle). Some individuals also have a condition which causes an increased hair growth particularly on the face, and laser hair removal helps to minimize the problem.
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| 4. It it painful? |
You may feel some pain or discomfort. It is often referred to as the snap of a rubber band or stinging. We use a topical anesthetic to minimize the discomfort. Every patient responds differently and has a different opinion about the level of discomfort they feel.
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| 5. How permanent is it? |
Laser hair removal causes a reduction in the amount of hair. The follicles that are destroyed are gone permanently, but the hair density of a particular area and the hair growth cycle plays a significant role. Studies have shown a final clearance of 70 to 100% depending on the site.
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| 6. Are all the hairs gone after the first treatment? |
No, some will be removed during the treatment, but the majority of the mature cycle hairs will fall out on their own 10 days after a treatment.
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| 7. How many treatments will I need? |
Treatments are very individualized. The number of procedures required is different for each person. It depends on many factors: color of hair, type of skin, and level of clearance you desire. It usually begins with a series of four sessions.
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| 8. What are the side effects after the proceedure? |
There might be a slight swelling or redness of the area. This condition is temporary and will subside. At completion of treatments, the skin is usually smooth and silkier.
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| 9. What precautions are necessary while having the treatment? |
It is important to avoid any type of sun exposure. It is important that you not take any medication that is light sensitive during your treatments. Tanning beds and self tanners must be avoided.
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