| What is the Gentlelase laser and why is it safe?
[page
top] Lasers
have been used for many years for a variety of medical cosmetic procedures including treatment of facial and leg veins, age spots and rejuvenating the skin on the face. The GentleLASE
System, a revolutionary long-pulse high energy alexandrite laser emits a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin to the hair follicle where it is absorbed. The laser energy is
transformed into heat, which destroys the hair follicle leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. The skin is further protected during treatment by a Dynamic Cooling DeviceTM
where cryogen is sprayed onto the skin cooling the upper layers and providing patients with increased comfort.
What are the benefits to laser hair removal?
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It combines the speed of shaving with the lasting results promised by electrolysis. Laser hair removal is effective on almost any area of the body
were smoother, younger, hair-free skin is desired.
Are there any areas of hair types that the laser will not work?
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Yes, areas where there are white or gray hair. The laser will not work on hair that does not have pigment (melanine). Also,
the laser may not be effective in patients that have hormonal imbalances.
The laser
can be used to treat any area on the body with exception of
areas that are close to the eyes.
I am
pregnant, can I still have laser treatment?
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Yes, with the exception of the abdominal
and pelvic areas. Any treatments in these areas will be avoided
for the duration of your pregnancy. There are no restrictions
for patients who are breastfeeding.
How many treatments will I need? [page
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The number of treatments you may require for optimal long-term benefits depends on the area you wish to have treated, the
hair density and your hair’s growth cycle. Most patients require 4-6 treatments to a specific area. Although more treatments may be necessary to achieve the results you desire.
How long does the treatment take? [page
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Treatment times vary by body area and body size. Below is a table of average treatment times for several different body areas.
| |
Body Area |
GentleLase |
Electrolysis |
Waxing |
| |
Upper Lip |
>1 Minute |
30 Minutes |
5-10 Minutes |
| |
Underarms |
5-10 Minutes |
2 Hours |
10-15 Minutes |
| |
Bikini Line |
5-10 Minutes |
4 Hours |
10-15 Minutes |
| |
Back |
30-45 Minutes |
<10 Hours |
30 Minutes |
| |
Full Legs |
1 Hour |
<12 Hours |
1 Hour |
How frequently will the treatments be performed? [page
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Treatments will be performed once signs of hair re-growth appear, usually at 6-8 week intervals. However, some body areas
may be have treatment intervals of 8-12 weeks.
Does the treatment hurt? [page
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You may feel a tingling or stinging sensation on the area being treated. Some areas of the body area more sensitive than others, but most people tolerate the
procedure well. Some patients benefit with use of a topical anesthetic ointment.
What happens after the treatment? [page
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Immediately after the area has been treated, the area may become slightly red
and puffy and feel warm. This reaction, if any at all, will return to normal within a day or so. Most people usually return to normal activity immediately. DO NOT, however, plan
any important social engagement for the same day as your treatment. Do not use make-up lotion or any other cover-up in the area of treatment for at least 12 hours after treatment; this
would not allow for heat dissipation from your skin any may cause blistering or pigment changes. You should NEVER pluck or wax your hairs in the area(s) of treatment between
session. However, shaving in those areas is acceptable. |
