Lotus
@ QUEENSWAY MEDICAL
A Physician-Led Clinic
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Laser hair removal is a non-surgical and non-invasive method of removing unwanted hair. A laser beam penetrates the skin and is attracted to the pigment in the hair. The energy then flows to the growth cells of the hair follicles and inhibits hair growth.
Most people respond well to laser hair removal unless the hair is pigment less, as is the case with light blonde or white hair. Laser hair removal is only possible if the laser beam can be directed onto pigments. If you have fair skin and dark, thick hair, this treatment is particularly suitable for you. However, Lutronic laser devices for hair removal can treat almost all skin and hair types. With dark skin, the laser settings are adjusted accordingly to protect the skin surface. Your doctor is very familiar with the device and is able to optimally adjust the treatment.
The removal or permanent reduction of unwanted hair by laser light depends on the scientific principle of selective photothermolysis. When the correct wavelength of laser light is applied to the hair in the treatment area, melanin in the hair absorbs the light, which is converted into heat energy. The buildup of thermal energy causes the destruction of hair follicles as well as associated stem cells and dermal papillae, while the surrounding skin is undamaged. Some follicles will only be damaged or may regrow, so numerous treatments are required to reduce or eliminate unwanted hair effectively for a persistent result.
To successfully remove unwanted hair by laser treatment, one must carefully apply energy so that hair follicles are damaged but nearby skin and tissues are spared. This can be more or less difficult depending on each patient’s individual characteristics such as skin colour, hair colour, and hair thickness. When treating hair with a laser, one can account for these characteristics by adjusting treatment parameters such as fluence, pulse width, and repetition rate. Many devices are limited in their utility because the different parameters cannot be adjusted independently (if at all). Understandably, treatment of darker skin is more challenging due to the higher concentration of melanin in the skin as a competing chromophore; in those cases, treatment may be too painful or cause burning.
Laser energy is applied to the hair follicle, heat destroys the follicle and prohibits future growth.
Although Clarity II technology is considered one of the highest rated ones in costomer comfort and effectiveness, some patient might experience a mild pinching or tingling sensation. To reduce probability of discomfort, a cooling spray is released from the device prior to each laser flash.
One of the most important things you can do to get ready for your appointment is shave the treatment area no less than 24 hours before your appointment date. Shaving before laser hair removal is important because the hair needs to be the right length for the laser to treat it effectively.
However, Make sure you don’t shave immediately before your laser hair removal treatment, as this increases the odds for inflammation and swelling.
Typically, we can expect 80% hair loss in 3-5 sessions, though it’s important to note that every area will react differently. Some can be challenging and require more time, while others may respond easily requiring fewer sessions.
Lotus @ Queensway Medical is a full-service cosmetic medicine as well as a family medicine practice located in Etobicoke, ON.
