What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses concentrated beams of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. The laser targets the pigment in the hair follicles, damaging them and inhibiting future hair growth without harming the surrounding skin.
Am I a Good Candidate?
- Best results are typically seen in individuals with dark hair and light skin, as the laser targets the pigment in the hair.
- Newer technologies, like Clarity II, can effectively treat darker skin tones and fine, light hair, though blonde, grey, and white hairs may respond better to electrolysis.
- Candidates should understand that multiple sessions (at least 4) are necessary due to the hair growth cycle. Hair in the growth phase responds best to laser treatment.
- A thorough evaluation by a dermatologist to rule out underlying medical conditions that may affect hair growth or skin sensitivity.
- Ideal candidates should not have active skin infections, open wounds, or recent history of keloid scarring in the treatment area.
- Individuals with tanned skin should avoid tanning before and after treatment sessions to prevent skin damage.
- Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid laser hair removal due to potential risks and hormonal changes that may affect hair growth.
- Candidates with hormonal imbalances (e.g., PCOS) should discuss their condition with the provider for tailored treatment plans.
- Commitment to multiple sessions and adherence to post-treatment care instructions for optimal results.
- Individuals with a lifestyle that exposes them to the sun frequently or requires quick results might need special considerations or adjustments in their treatment plan.
Benefits:
- Provides a more permanent solution compared to traditional methods like shaving, plucking, or waxing.
- Reduces hair growth significantly, often resulting in smooth skin with minimal maintenance.
- Advanced systems like Clarity II can complete treatments in half the time.
- IntelliTrak™ technology ensures consistent and thorough coverage, particularly in larger areas.
- Targets hair follicles without damaging surrounding skin.
- Shorter pulse widths (1ms & 2ms) enhance the removal of fine and light hair.
- Modern systems are designed to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
- Suitable for removing hair from different body parts, including face, legs, arms, underarms, back, and bikini area.
- Compared to other hair removal methods, laser treatments have fewer side effects, such as irritation or allergic reactions.
- Reduces the occurrence of skin problems associated with other hair removal methods, such as razor burn or skin darkening.
More Details:
Clarity II in Laser Hair Removal
This laser platform incorporates advanced digital technology, offering a dual wavelength of 755/1064nm. This innovative system is equipped with intelligent features, revolutionizing the way treatments are conducted. Its purpose is to provide faster and highly effective treatments for patients with varying skin types, all while enhancing the overall ease and efficiency of the procedure.
Key Benefits
- Laser Hair Removal Treatments are completed in half the time.
- IntelliTrak™ technology ensures faster and consistent treatment coverage, particularly in larger areas
- Real-time temperature sensing provides continuous feedback on the skin’s temperature during treatment
- Exclusive shorter pulse widths (1ms & 2ms) enhance the effectiveness of hair removal, especially for finer hair.
- Clarity II offers significant clinical advantages compared to other systems. It stands out with its higher energy levels and shorter pulses, such as the unique 1.0ms pulse, which allows for more effective removal of finer facial hair. Additionally, the real-time temperature sensing feature enhances the efficacy of treatments and ensures optimal endpoints for patients.
- Gone are the days of inconsistent treatment coverage achieved through freehand stamping. The design of Clarity II has dramatically reduced our overall treatment time, thanks to features like auto-calibration in seconds, large spot sizes with ample energy, rep rates up to 3Hz, and IntelliTrak technology that ensures thorough, consistent, and enjoyable treatments. With Clarity II’s comprehensive platform, we can swiftly switch wavelengths, spot sizes, and parameters to cater to various skin types and address different indications.
- At Skin Experts Polyclinic, we are proud to offer the latest technology and the benefits of Clarity II’s advanced modalities, delivering superior results to our patients.
- Traditional hair removal techniques such as shaving, plucking and waxing, provide only temporary relief and may result in allergic reactions and ingrown hairs. Electrolysis is still useful for white, grey and blonde hairs, but requires long and frequent treatments. Lasers are ideal to remove unwanted or excessive hair on the face and body and to treat ingrown hairs. Laser Hair Removal works by targeting the pigment inside the hair follicle without damaging the delicate structures of the skin.
- Dr Touma was one of the earliest users of laser hair removal in the world, and his research contributed to the early studies in the United States. Our Skin Experts team has a tremendous combined experience in using lasers for hair removal effectively, efficiently with a minimum number of sessions, and extreme safety. Lasers are used by our well-trained physicians, or staff under our supervision. Because hair cycles through “growth” and “dormant” phases, at least 4 treatments will be needed because hair in the growth phase responds best to laser treatment. Furthermore, maintenance treatments are often necessary.
- Although most patients obtain excellent results with our hair removal lasers, blonde or fine hairs are better treated with electrolysis, another service we also offer at the clinic. While we can now treat patients with darker skin color, it is always best to avoid tanning before and after treatment sessions.
- At Skin Experts, we use advanced laser technology suited for hair type and skin color. Moreover, all patients doing hair removal are evaluated by a dermatologist to assess the presence of underlying medical conditions and optimize the treatment plan. Our approach is to ensure patients reach the desired hair reduction safely, in a minimum number of sessions!
- At Skin Experts Polyclinic, we have the most advanced laser hair removal technique which causes minimal pain and can address even fine and light hair.
Technological Advancements in Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal has seen significant technological advancements, enhancing its effectiveness and safety. Some of these innovations include:
Dual Wavelength Lasers
Dual wavelength lasers, such as Alexandrite and Nd:YAG , provide versatility in treating various skin types. Alexandrite lasers are effective for fair skin, while Nd:YAG lasers are safer for darker skin tones.
Cooling Technologies
Cooling technologies are crucial for protecting the skin during laser treatments. They work by counteracting the heat generated by the laser, preventing burns and ensuring patient comfort. Advanced systems use precise and consistent cooling to maintain skin safety.
Pulse Duration and Repetition Rate
The pulse duration must be shorter than the Thermal Relaxation Time (TRT) of the hair to ensure the hair heats up to the point of burning without losing heat. Higher repetition rates, such as 3 Hz, allow for faster treatments without compromising safety.
Spot Sizes and Energy Distribution
Advanced lasers offer various spot sizes to treat different areas efficiently. A top-hat beam profile ensures uniform energy distribution, providing consistent results across the treatment area.
Scientific Principles in Practice: Clarity II Laser
One of the advanced systems in laser hair removal is the Clarity II laser. While we focus on the general science, it’s worth noting how Clarity II incorporates these principles:
- Dual Wavelength: Combines Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers for all skin types.
- Intelligent Cooling Device (ICD): Provides precise and consistent cooling to protect the skin.
- High Repetition Rate: Uses Intellitrak® technology to enable 3 Hz repetition rate, ensuring fast and efficient treatments.
- Optimal Pulse Duration: Offers a 1 msec pulse duration for effective clearance of both thin and thick hair.
- Versatility: Includes spot sizes ranging from 2 to 25 mm, suitable for various treatment areas and applications.
Conclusion
Laser hair removal is a scientifically advanced method for achieving long-term hair reduction. By understanding the principles of targeting melanin, the importance of the hair growth cycle, and the technological innovations, patients can appreciate the effectiveness and safety of modern laser treatments. Whether through systems like the Clarity II or other advanced lasers, the science behind laser hair removal continues to evolve, offering better results and greater comfort for all skin types.
