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How does the LightSheer Diode Laser System work?
The system emits near-infrared laser light that is absorbed by the pigment located in the hair follicle. The laser is pulsed, or turned on, for only a fraction of a second. The duration of each pulse is just long enough to damage the follicle, while the system's unique, patented contact-cooling hand piece, the Chill Tip, helps protect the skin by conductive cooling during the laser energy delivery.
What advantages does the LightSheer have over other laser hair removal systems?
The LightSheer Diode Laser System was designed from the ground up for laser hair removal, so it has the wavelength, fluency, pulse width, and active epidermal cooling system—the Chill Tip ideally suited for laser hair removal. The system is small, compact, and (in some models) portable, so it fits well into virtually every type of existing practice. The system's solid state construction make it durable. It's state-of-the-art user interface make it easy to use. Finally, Lumenis has been in the business of making medical and cosmetic lasers for more than 30 years, so we've been able to develop unparalleled service and support—from our extensive training and practice building resources to our stand-alone systems' 24-hour replacement service (not available everywhere in the world). No other hair removal system offers the same combination of product excellence and customer service and support.
Does the LightSheer work on tanned or different skin colors?
The LightSheer diode laser system safely and effectively treats all skin types (Fitzpatrick Skin Types I-VI) as well as tanned skin. For darker skin types and people with tans, appropriate fluencies are generally lower and appropriate pulse widths are generally longer to prevent damage to the epidermis. Using the appropriate treatment parameters, however, people with all skin types can benefit from laser hair removal with the LightSheer.
Are the Results Permanent?
The LightSheer laser has been cleared by the FDA for hair removal and permanent hair reduction on all skin types and tanned skin. To achieve a satisfactory level of clearance, 3-5 treatments are typically required.
Is Laser Hair Removal Safe?
Absolutely. The LightSheer was developed from years of research at the Massachusetts General Hospital's Wellman Laboratories of Photo medicine, one of the world's leading research institutions. The laser parameters were carefully designed to inhibit the re-growth of hair by studying the anatomy of the hair follicle and precisely matching the laser output to the size, depth and location of hair follicles. The actively cooled sapphire hand piece was designed to conduct heat away form the skin before, during and after each pulse.
Eye protection is an important feature during treatment. For safety, laser hair removal is not recommended when pregnant. People treated, commonly experience reddening of the skin, follicular swelling and histamine/hive reactions. Most skin reactions resolve within anywhere from 1 to 2 hours but can last for up to 24 to 48 hours following treatment. Other temporary adverse side effects like hyper pigmentation (darkening of the skin) and hypo pigmentation (lightening of the skin) are possible, but less common. You can lower your risks of pigmentation changes by following the pre-treatment instructions and avoiding sun exposure, suntan beds and self-tanning lotions.
The treatment is approved by the FDA. The light produced by the laser is in the infra-red end of the light spectrum as opposed to the UV end. This type of light is non-carcinogenic (non-cancer causing). Lasers have been used in the medical profession for over 10 years and no long-term side effects have been reported.
Does The Laser Hair Removal Treatment Hurt?
Some people find the first treatment more uncomfortable than subsequent treatments. This is because there are more hair roots which are destroyed during the first treatment; and perhaps because some people are more apprehensive during the first treatment, they are not sure of what to expect. Some areas of the body are also more sensitive than others, such as upper lip and bikini area. However, your technician is well trained in discomfort techniques and will prepare your treatment accordingly.
Everyone's pain threshold is different. As treatment settings vary according to individual skin and hair types, so do the levels of discomfort. Factors depend on the sensitivity of your skin, the area being treated, amount of melanin in your skin, and whether a numbing anaesthetic is being used. The most commonly treated areas take only a few minutes to treat, and it's over before you know it. Those with darker skin types may experience more pain during laser hair removal, and should use a topical anaesthetic. We always provide the option of a topical anaesthetic, such as EMLA, and this will be discussed at your initial consultation. You can schedule to have your topical anaesthetic applied, if it is an area that may be hard to reach, or do by yourself, such as your back. Some people find it helpful to take two regular strength Tylenol a couple of hours before coming in for treatment, and some women find that they are more sensitive during their menstrual cycle, however, this would not preclude treatment.
The LightSheer only emits infrared light, and is equipped with a cooling hand piece which helps conduct heat away from the skin. The laser pulse is often described as a wave of heat with a pinprick or rubber band snapping sensation. On your more sentative areas of the body, you may elect to have a topical anaesthetic (EMLA) applied in order to increase the comfort during the procedure. EMLA is available over the counter at most pharmacies for approximately $45 for a 30gm tube. EMLA needs to be applied 1/8 inch thick (like icing a cake) and covered with saran wrap, 1-2 hours before treatment.
How Many Treatments Are Recommended?
The laser works by disabling hair follicles that are actively producing hair (anagen phase) at the time of treatment. Since other hairs will enter the growth phase at different times, additional treatments will be necessary to disable all hair follicles in a given area. It usually involves 3-6 treatments over the year for the body and 3-8 treatments for facial areas. Our treatments are offered in packages of 3, and after completion most people experience an average 50-85% permanent reduction of hair. Due to the cyclical nature of hair growth, and the body's ability to reproduce new hair follicles, follow-up treatments may be necessary, depending upon individual desired results. Some individuals may require only a single treatment to reduce the volume and thickness of hair.
How Long Does The Laser Hair Removal Take?
Each laser pulse will treat an area of 3/8 of an inch or 9x9rnm. The amount of time needed depends on the size of area treated. As an example, the lip can be treated in less than 10 minutes, bikini/underarms together take 45 minutes, full legs 1.5 to 2 hours, full back/shoulders/neck takes 2 hours. These are average treatment times and will vary due to the height and weight of the client.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Laser Hair Removal?
If you are concerned about unwanted hair, you are probably a good candidate for laser hair removal. Individuals with fair skin, and dark hair are typically the best candidates, however the LightSheer can adapt its settings to treat any skin colour. If you have white, gray or light blonde hair, recent sun exposure (including self-tanning lotions, and tanning beds), pregnant, or you are taking a sun sensitive medication (like accutane), you may not be eligible for treatment.
Is Laser Hair Removal Covered by Insurance?
Most private insurance companies do not offer reimbursement for "cosmetic' procedures like laser hair removal. However, consult your insurance carrier for more information. The removal of unwanted terminal hair for the management of hirsutism, congenital or drug-related hypertrichosis, pseudofolliculitis, transsexual states, and some skin grafts may be covered by some private insurance plans. We do not file for insurance reimbursement. |
