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Millions of adults suffer from unwanted hair. They
spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars on uncomfortable, non-permanent
solutions, such as waxing, depilatories, shaving, or electrolysis
– only to find the hair reappear days to weeks later. Fortunately,
advances in laser medicine have opened the door to permanent hair
removal in many patients. In 1999, the FDA approved the first laser
capable of permanent hair removal – the LightSheer laser.
What is the history
of the LightSheer laser?
The LightSheer laser was developed at Harvard University by Dr.
Rox Anderson, the most famous laser researcher in the world. In
1984, Dr. Anderson published his work on the theory of “selective
photothermolysis” – the concept that lasers can be “tuned”
to affect a single target in the skin. This theory is the basis
of all laser medicine today. The LightSheer laser is produced by
the Lumenis laser company – felt by many physicians to be
the premier laser manufacturer.
How does the LightSheer
laser work?
Like all current hair-removal lasers, the LightSheer laser targets
the pigment located in the hair shaft and follicle. By targeting
this pigment, the laser eliminates the hair itself. The laser can
only access actively growing hairs. Since 20% of hairs are dormant
and thus inaccessible at any one time, laser treatments must be
repeated for the best results. Most patients undergo at least four
total treatment sessions, typically scheduled every 2-3 months.
Am I a good candidate
for laser-assisted hair removal?
With current laser technology, the best candidates are those with
brown or black hair, and fair skin. Blonde, white, and gray hair
does not respond, due to the lack of pigment. Treatment of patients
with a dark complexion or deep tan is not possible because the laser
is unable to accurately distinguish the desired target (the hair
shaft) from the surrounding skin.
How much hair can be
permanently removed by the LightSheer laser?
Statistics suggest that the first laser session permanently removes
about 30% of all the hairs in a treated area. The second session
increases the total number of hairs permanently removed to 50%.
With four total treatment sessions, most patients achieve a 70-80%
permanent reduction. Greater improvement can often be achieved with
additional treatment sessions. Although a few hairs always remain,
they are often finer and lighter in color, making the degree of
improvement seem even greater. Improvement is limited to the treated
area. For example, treatment of the upper lip and chin will not
decrease the number of hairs present on the arms or bikini area.
Is treatment uncomfortable?
Patients do experience moderate stinging or burning during the laser
procedure. For smaller areas, such as the face or bikini area, a
topical anesthetic can be applied 30-60 minutes prior to the procedure.
For larger treatment areas, local anesthetics may be impractical.
An oral pain reliever can be prescribed to be taken 1-2 hours prior
to the procedure. In this case, you will need to have a friend or
family member accompany you to the appointment.
What can I expect after
the procedure?
Patients experience mild redness and swelling of the skin immediately
after the procedure. This typically resolves within several hours
to a few days. A mild-to-moderate amount of crusting may be seen,
especially with the first treatment session, or in those with darker
and thicker hair.
What are the possible
complications of laser-assisted hair removal?
Laser-assisted hair removal is very safe, with almost no risk of
serious complications. Most patients return to their usual social
and occupational schedules within several hours following treatment,
or by the next day. Those with significant crusting may want to
take 1-3 days off due to the potentially unsightly appearance.
Unlike electrolysis, scarring occurs in less than
0.1% of cases. Pigmentary changes are also rare, but can occur in
patients with a strong tan or naturally dark skin. Therefore, it
is important that you avoid tanning prior to your LightSheer session.
A strong tan may force us to reschedule your case, to ensure your
safety.
Will my insurance cover
the procedure?
Laser-assisted hair removal is considered cosmetic and is not covered
by insurance companies. Payment is due at the time of scheduling.
Please see our cosmetic price list for the costs associated with
treatment of different locations. You may schedule a consultation
with either Dr. Massa or Dr. Webb if you are interested in this
treatment.
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