Beverly Hills Aesthetics

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How does the laser remove hair?

The laser works by a principle called Selective Photothermolysis. The laser is pulsed, (turned on) for a millisecond, emitting a beam of light on to the skin. The light energy passes harmlessly through the skin, but is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle and hair shaft. By absorbing this laser energy, the hair follicles are disabled, impairing their ability to grow. The laser is effective on hair follicles in the active growth phase (anagen).

What laser do you use?

We use the LightSheer™ diode laser. This diode array type of laser system has been approved for permanent hair reduction. The LightSheer™ has an 810-nm wavelength light that specifically targets the pigment contained in the hair follicle and shaft. A patented Chill Tip cooling hand piece is incorporated to protect the outer layer of skin, which decreases the surface temperature and prevents thermal injury. The cooling tip also provides a mild anesthetic property allowing areas to be treated as painlessly as possible.

Is it safe?

The LightSheer™ system is FDA approved. It was developed after years of research done at the Wellman Laboratories of Photomedicine (Where Dr. Khatri pioneered Erbium:YAG laser treatments). This institute is one of the world’s leading and most respected medical research facilities. The laser parameters were carefully defined to inhibit re-growth by studying the anatomy of the hair follicle and matching the laser light and pulse duration to the follicle size, depth, and location. This allows for safe and effective hair removal.

Does it hurt?

Most clients describe the procedureas a little uncomfortable – a tingling, stinging sensation during treatment. Because some areas of the body are more sensitive, you may want a topical anesthetic. Usually you apply this anesthetic one hour before treatment to lessen any discomfort.

How long is the treatment?

The treatment time can vary based on the area. The upper lip takes only a few minutes while the back or legs can take up to an hour.

How many treatments does it take?

The laser works by disabling hair in the active growth stage (anagen) at the time of treatment. Because not all hairs are in this stage during treatment, a minimum of three treatments will be necessary to disable all the hair follicles in the area being treated.

Hair coarseness, density and color affect results. People’s hair respond differently, but generally it takes no more than three treatments. Treatments are usually given at intervals of 4-6 weeks, or when new hair growth is noticed. You can discuss your goals with our consultant and they will develop a program based on your goals.

Are the results permanent?

The FDA authorized the users of the LightSheer™ system for permanent hair reduction. This decision was not made lightly, and only after years of reviewing statistical scientific data on the results obtained with the LightSheer™ system. This is a claim very few other lasers in the world are allowed to use. We are happy to offer our clients the best in hair removal technology.

What happens to the skin after treatment?

Within about 30 minutes of treatment, the area may become pink or red. Clients describe it as mild sunburn this reaction usually subsides within a day or so. Because the laser does not damage the skin, no bandages are necessary. However, the doctor may prescribe a topical cream to apply to the treated areas, if necessary.

What should I do after I am treated?

After your treatment, you can return to your normal activities. The treated areas should be handled with care after treatment. Avoid: Retin-A, alphahydroxy acids, glycolic acids, astringents. You may clean the area using mild soap and water. You should avoid tanning and use a sunscreen on any treated areas exposed to the sun.

What should I expect?

Around 3-10 days after treatment hairs will begin to surface. Most of these hairs were treated and are “falling out”. It is not re-growth. The hair follicles need to purge the hairs that remained under the skin. Please refrain from waxing, plucking, or bleaching between treatments (shaving is okay).