Laser hair removal is becoming the hair removal method of choice for many men and women today. This procedure offers permanent hair reduction in just a few treatment sessions, freeing you from razors, waxing and topical hair removal creams. If you have always wondered what laser hair removal is all about, allow Sapphire Advanced Aesthetics to give you the lowdown to help you determine whether this is the right treatment for you.
The Science behind the Laser
Laser hair removal works on the technique known as elective photothermolysis, which means the laser energy targets some tissue while leaving surrounding tissue intact. Lasers are drawn to objects darker in color; in this case, the melanin in your hair is the magnet that attracts the laser energy. This is why laser hair removal tends to work best when there is a greater contrast between dark hair and lighter skin tones. However, advanced laser devices like the one used at Sapphire Advanced Aesthetics can treat a wider range of hair colors and skin tones today.
When the laser energy is delivered to the hair, it heats up the follicle so that it can no longer function properly. This allows the current hair in the follicle to shed and makes it difficult for future hair to grow in its place. This gives laser hair removal its gold-star status as a permanent hair reduction system. Fine hairs that are left behind will be much less visible and easier to manage.
The Hair Growth Cycle
Laser hair removal must be performed in a series of treatment sessions to be effective. This is because the laser only works on follicles that are in the active growth stage, also known as the anagen phase. Not all follicles are in the growth phase at the same time. Some are in the short transitional stage known as the catagen phase, while others are in the telogen or resting phase.
Because the laser only works on follicles in the anagen phase, the process must be repeated to ensure all follicles eventually reach that phase at the time of your treatment. This ensure all of the hair is addressed in your treatment area. Depending on the patient, we typically perform 6-8 treatments, spaced 4-8 weeks apart to give patients the best possible results.
The LightSheer Diode
Sapphire Advanced Aesthetics performs our laser hair removal treatments using the LightSheer Diode laser. This device was the first to use diode technology to produce permanent hair reduction. The diode laser, which is the same laser used in much of your technology in your home today, is both safe and effective when properly used for cosmetic treatments like hair removal.
Laser hair removal procedures are relatively quick and comfortable, particularly when compared with traditional hair removal procedures like waxing and electrolysis. Treatments typically take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the size of the treatment area. After your laser hair removal, your skin may be red and tender and should be kept out of the sun for a number of days. However, you will be able to return to your regular activities as soon as your treatment is completed.
When looking for a provider for your laser hair removal treatment, it is essential you select a physician that has experience and expertise in the laser device used to ensure your procedure is both safe and successful. Dr. Smith and her team at Sapphire Advanced Aesthetics have treated numerous patients with the LightSheer Diode laser and seen excellent results with this device. To learn more, contact Sapphire Advanced Aesthetics today at 952-460-1970.