The use of lasers for hair
removal has been studied for a number of years. Hair
bearing areas are treated with a focused beam of
concentrated laser light which is selectively
absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft, as well
as in the surrounding hair follicle. This causes
thermal destruction of these anatomical sites and
disrupts the hair follicles ability to regenerate.
This causes permanent hair reduction. Unlike
electrolysis which kills one hair follicle at a time
the laser reaches and treats hundreds of follicles
at a time.
Scientific Evidence
A clinical study evaluated
the use of the LightSheer Diode Laser for hair
removal. Of 92 patients, all had temporary hair loss
and 89% had long-term hair loss. Regrowing hairs
were shown to be thinner and lighter than
previously. The Diode Laser causes permanent hair
reduction without damaging the epidermis, regardless
of skin type.
The Cooling Sapphire
Chill Tip
An integral part of the
LightSheer Diode Laser is The Chill Tip. This
contact cooling handpiece protects the skin by
actively cooling the skin before, during, and after
the laser light is transmitted. It also actively
draws off heat from the skin surface. In addition
the compression of the skin brings the hair
follicles closer to the skin where they can be more
effectively targeted and disabled.
Hair Physiology
Hair is in one of 3 stages
of growth at any given time; Anagen, Catagen or
Telogen
The laser treatments are
most effective when hair is in the active or anagen
phase when melanin, the target of the laser light is
abundant.
There are no known
permanent complications of these treatments. However
patients with the following conditions should be
cautious:
Tanning within the
preceding 6 weeks.
A history of keloid
scarring.
Active infection or a
history of herpes simplex in the treatment area.
Waxing, or plucking
within the preceding 6 weeks.
Hypersensitivity to
bleaching agents, if applicable
Use of Accutane within
the preceding 6 months.
Before Treatment
Use sunscreen daily: Any
amount of sun tan will interfere with effectiveness
of the treatment and increase adverse reactions.
Do not wax, pluck, or have
electrolysis for at least six weeks prior to
treatment. Shaving does not affect the treatment
result.
Skin pretreatment with
bleaching agents is required in patients with tan or
darker skin tones. Our physician needs to see
unwanted hairlines before treatment.
Day of Treatment
At home, shave unwanted
hair as closely as possible without damaging the
skin surface.
If topical anesthetic has
been requested, apply 45 minutes prior to treatment
and cover with plastic wrap. This wrap will be
removed by the technician before your treatment.
Immediately after the
treatment, transient redness, swelling, itching, and
burning sensations may be experienced. These will
disappear within 24 hours to 48 hours but if desired
over the counter hydrocortisone cream may be used.
After treatment
Immediately after
treatment apply iced compresses every 3-4 hours for
15-20 minutes for about 48 hours.
Treated areas should be
washed gently twice a day with cool water and a mild
soap, such as Dove.
Treated areas should be
protected from direct exposure to sunlight to
prevent skin color change. Sunscreen with SPF
greater than 15 should be used all the time, as well
as wearing a hat.
Hair will fall out of the
follicles within the next 1 to 3 weeks. You may rub
the treated area with a dry towel to pull the hair
out of the follicles at this time. Do not shave, it
will prolong hair from falling out.
Treatment should be
repeated within one to three months, whenever
necessary.
