Laser Hair Removal
Kenneth Beer, MD. PA's office uses the Candela GentleLASE to safely and permanently remove unwanted hair. The GentleLASE uses a pulse of high energy alexandrite light beam that passes through the skin to the hair follice, where the energy is absorbed. Once the energy is absorbed, it is converted to heat, which disrupts the hair follicle while leaving the surrounding skin unchanged. The GentleLASE is unique among present hair removal lasers because it utilizes a cooling device to protect the skin and minimize any discomfort.
Why use a laser to remove hair?
Standard methods of hair removal including waxing, shaving and electrolysis are temporary, time consuming and may be painful. The GentleLASE can remove hair in a short amount of time and can result in a permanent reduction or removal of hair. This allows you to spend your valuable time doing other, more enjoyable activities.
Who is a good candidate for the GentleLASE?
The ideal candidate for the laser is a fair skinned person with dark hair. In these individuals, the light beam travels to the hair follicle without any absorption by the skin. Darker skinned people, people with light hair and people with dark tans are less ideal for the treatment. A consultation at the Esthetic Center will help decide if this is the right treatment for you.
What precautions do I need to observe when I am treated?
Avoid the sun for six weeks before and after the treatment. Do not wax, bleach, pluck or get electrolysis on the areas to be treated. If you have a history of cold sores, let the staff at the Esthetic Center know.
What happens during the procedure?
After you put on goggles to protect your eyes, the area to be treated will be trimmed of excess hair. The laser will then be used to deliver a series of pulses. Since a jet of cold is hitting the skin prior to each pulse, there is minimal discomfort. In the unlikely event that the discomfort level is high, a topical anesthetic may be applied. The procedure can take as little as five minutes (for a lip) or as long as an hour (for a back).
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on the individual and the area being treated. Since hair grows in cycles, not all of the hair in an area will be effectively treated at once. Treatments are repeated between four and six weeks apart. Most people need between three and six treatments to accomplish significant hair reduction.
How is this different from other hair removal systems being advertised?
The GentleLASE is a laser. Most of the other systems being advertised are "photoepilation" systems. These are bright lights. The laser delivers more energy to the hair follicle and is a true medical device approved by the FDA for hair removal. Although there are many centers springing up, few are using actual lasers. When considering permanent hair removal treatments and the costs of these treatments, it is very important to find our if they are really lasers, if they are approved for hair removal and whether they are supervised by board certified dermatologists who specialize in skin treatment.
Call today for an estimated cost of Laser Hair Removal at 561.655.9055.
