Laser Hair Removal
                               explained

Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated light energy to target the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle. The light converts to heat, which damages its ability to grow hair. The more pigment present within the hair, the more heat created. Thus the darker the hairs, the more effective this procedure is. The purpose of laser hair removal is to achieve long-lasting or permanent hair reduction.

The amount of sessions required for optimum results depends entirely on the hair growth cycle and will differ per person.

 

For hair follicles to be successfully treated they must be in the anagen growing stage. We are unable to identify which growth cycle hairs are in at any present time. The majority of hairs are in the resting phase, therefore multiple sessions are required for best results. We recommend beginning with 8 sessions starting at 4-6 weeks apart. The time between appointments will extend as the hair growth begins to reduce and slow down. This allows the technician to try and target hairs more likely to be in the anagen stage. Each treatment plan is catered to the patient individually based on results seen. Clients can expect to see that the hairs in the treatment area are reduced, become finer and less pigmented. Permanent removal of all hairs cannot be guaranteed, and results vary depending on skin type, hair colour, hair thickness, hormones, consistency of treatments, and treatment area. Very light, red, grey, or fine hair may not respond to treatment at all. Although all skin types can be treated, typically laser hair removal works best on fair skin and darker hair.

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A consultation and patch test is required before full treatment can be commenced. At patch test, laser hair removal treatment will be carried out on a small area. This gives an indication of any adverse reactions which may occur.

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Expected benefits:

• Long-lasting reduction in hair density and thickness.

• Reduction in ingrown hairs, irritation and shadowing caused by shaving or waxing.

• Smoother skin with less visible hair regrowth, compared to other temporary hair removal methods.

• Possible improvement in skin texture.

 

At the laser full treatment treatment, the skin will firstly be prepared and any moles, tattoos, or open wounds will be suitably covered. These cannot be treated over. Both the client and technician will apply some laser protection glasses. Ultrasound gel will then be applied to the area, this helps to protect the skin during treatment and keep it cool. Treatment with the laser light will then begin. Once this has been completed, the remaining ultra sound gel is removed and aloe Vera lotion is applied to the area to help soothe the skin.

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The duration of appointment is dependent on the area being treated. The average time per smaller areas is between 5-10 minutes. For medium to large areas average treatment time is between 15-30 minutes.

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The AW3® diode laser hair removal machine hosts crystal freeze technology. The tip of the laser is iced over during treatment. This numbs the area being treated continuously and helps to keep pain levels to a minimum. Small zaps of heat and some discomfort may be felt, however it should never be unbearable.

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The possible risks of the procedure include but are not limited to:

• Discomfort - Many patients may experience mild discomfort during and after this procedure.
  During the procedure small sharp zaps of heat may be felt.

• Follicular oedema - temporary swelling and small raised bumps around follicles.

• After treatment, localised swelling, redness, bleeding, bruising, tingling, warmth, and mild tenderness or irritation can occur in the treatment area, but these are usually temporary.

• Blisters or burns - Although uncommon, treatment may cause blisters or light burns to the surface of the skin.

• Scarring - There is a small chance of scarring following blisters or light surface burns on the skin.

This could include large scars and, very rarely, abnormal raised scar formations called keloid scars.

• Infection - including bacterial, fungal, or viral. Cold sores (herpes simplex) can be triggered, even without a previous history.

• Hypo/hyper pigmentation - The treated area may heal with changed pigmentation or colour, especially in individuals prone to this. Such a change usually occurs with darker skin, after pregnancy, or when the related area has been exposed to sunlight. With some patients these changes may occur despite adequate protection from UV rays. The changed pigmentation which may include more or less colour usually reverts to its original appearance within 3 to 6 months.
  However, occasionally a pigment change may be permanent.

• Crust formation - scabbing/ crust formations can be seen for up to 10 days after treatment.

• Allergic reaction - Although very rare, it is possible to experience hives, a severe itchy rash which may appear intensely red and the skin warm in the treatment area. It is also possible to have an adverse reaction to any of the lotions used on the skin before and after the procedure.

• Paradoxical hypertrichosis (rare increased hair growth) - in or near treated area(s). A rare adverse effect of energy-based hair removal treatments like laser, where instead of removing hair, the treatment stimulates finer, lighter hairs to become thicker, darker, and more prominent. This is usually temporary but may require additional treatment.

• Eye injury - lasers can cause serious eye damage if protection is not worn. You will be given protective goggles and must keep them on throughout treatment.

• Minimal or no results - although uncommon, some clients may not respond to treatment at all, or may see only partial reduction in hair growth.

Compliance with the aftercare guidelines is crucial for healing.