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Laser Hair Removal : FAQ |
Is laser hair removal permanent?
Damage to the hair follicle can remove unwanted hair permanently. Due to the nature of hair, the differences in colour and texture, and the many factors that influence its growth, the results are variable. Most people with darker and coarser hair will experience a permanent 20% to 30% reduction in hair growth with each laser treatment. The effect of repeated treatments is cumulative. In addition to permanent hair reduction, the laser treated hair may become lighter in colour and/or finer in texture, which make the hairs much less noticeable. In fact, most people experience a significant long-term esthetic improvement by eliminating or reducing the amount of undesired hair with each treatment.
Is it painful?
No treatment to remove unwanted hair is completely painless, if it is to be effective. Patients, who have undergone repeated waxing or hours of electrolysis, can attest to the pain caused by commonly used methods of epilation. The laser systems at The Cole Clinic are fast and effective, which reduces treatment time. The cooling systems help reduce discomfort while protecting the skin surface from thermal injury during delivery of the pulse of the laser light energy. If large or sensitive areas with unwanted hair are to be treated, a topical anesthetic cream such as EMLA may be applied to the site one hour prior to treatment to further reduce any discomfort.
How long does the procedure take?
The amount of time required depends on the type of laser used and the size of the area requiring treatment. For example, the upper lip and bikini line may require only 5-15 minutes of treatment, while an hour or more will be required to treat the back or legs. We prefer to use the fastest and most effective lasers for your hair and skin type. |
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| What will the treated area look like after the procedure?
Immediately after treatment, the site will be somewhat swollen, appear slightly red or pink in color, and will feel like mild sunburn. This reaction subsides over a few hours, and then the treated sites usually return to their normal appearance. The amount of discomfort after this procedure is usually minimal and does not limit most normal physical activities. There is no need to apply a bandage and wound care is generally not required.
What other complications have been associated with treatment?
In addition to transient epidermal injury (discomfort, pinkness, slight swelling and occasional blistering), transient hypo-pigmentation, hyper-pigmentation, and transient textural changes (crusting or scabbing) have been observed in some patients treated with laser hair removal if a recent tan is apparent. Proper patient selection and pre-treatment tests can help minimize these complications. Patients who carry the herpes simplex virus (cold sores) and receive treatment on their upper lip, chin, or lower cheeks may have a "flare-up" of their condition. The risk of this complication can be reduced if the patient takes an antiviral medication like Valtrex for a few days before and after each treatment. Dr. Cole and the nurses can ensure that this happens.
Is it safe?
As with any medical treatment, the use of hair-removal lasers might have some side effects, however, these side effects are usually minor and manageable. The precise laser parameters used for our lasers were carefully defined by studying the anatomy of the hair follicle and then precisely matching the color of laser light and the pulse duration to the size, depth, and location of the hair follicle. This research has resulted in safe protocols that are effective and eliminates the risk of scarring and substantially reduces most other complications following treatment.
How do I prepare for a laser hair removal session?
Please avoid waxing, plucking, electrolysis, and sun exposure (or tanning beds) to skin areas you want to treat for 4-6 weeks prior to laser hair removal treatment. You may shave the areas or use depilatory creams such as Neet or Nair. You should use sunscreen SPF 30 or greater if treatment areas will be sun exposed to minimize tanning. Please note that shaving does not make your hair come in thicker or coarser, it just feels that way due to the stubble.
Why does The Cole Clinic use diode and alexandrite laser systems?
The Cole Clinic uses the most effective and efficient laser systems. The diode laser is the treatment of choice for darker skin types. The alexandrite laser is more efficient with lighter skin types. Both lasers provide the best clinical results for permanent hair reduction. Three advantages over older methods of epilation include comfort, speed, and effectiveness. Our systems use unique cooling technology. They do not cause the kind of skin irritation that the other methods may create.
Why should I use the Cole Clinic and Dr. Cole's nurses to perform my laser hair removal treatment?
The Cole Clinic provides a warm, caring, and professional environment in which to explore your hair removal options. Dr. Cole and his nurses have developed extensive experience since 2000, and are very knowledgeable and well trained in the discipline of laser hair removal. They will educate you so that you can make a well-informed decision regarding the options to treat your unwanted hair. They will ensure that you receive the highest quality care and get the best results possible, in the shortest amount of time.
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