Unwanted hair from excessive or inappropriate hair growth may appear for a variety of reasons. This can cause immense distress and can have affects on self esteem. Methods such as shaving, waxing, chemical removal and electrolysis all have significant limitation and are not always appropriate or effective.
The most recent innovation is the use of laser technology, which provides a more effective alternative. At Visage we use polaris N D Yag laser system. The laser we have chosen has been approved by laser specialists, and doctors for its safety and effectiveness. This type of laser has been used to treat medical and cosmetic conditions such as tattoos and pigmentation problems. It was during these treatments that doctors began to notice a reduction in hair growth where the laser had been used.
To most people laser hair removal is a very new concept and to help you understand we will explain how it works and how it works in the clinic environment.
We have put together a few of the most frequently asked questions about the process, the answers to which will help you to understand the science and highlight how visage polaris treatment works.
How does a laser work?
The laser emits an intense beam of light which is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. The light travels down the shaft and destroys the hair follicle without harming the skin and within 1 week, hair that has been damaged by laser is lost and as the follicle is also disabled, hair re-growth is significantly reduced.
Which areas can Visage lasercare treat?
Virtually any area where you want to get rid of hair. We can treat nose and ear hair, but we don't do this by treating right inside the ears and nose (this will be discussed with you by your laser technician). We may also not be able to treat the parts of your eyebrows that are very close to your eyes, or hair that is below the eyebrows.
How many treatments are needed?
Laser hair removal is not a one-off treatment; It all depends on your skin colour and thickness and colour of hair. It usually takes a course of about six sessions each one spaced in between 4-6 weeks apart. This is because individual hairs go through a cycle of change, growing (anagen), resting (catagen) and dying off (telgen) prior to new growth. Our laser will work on all three cycles but it will work best on the growing (anagen) stage as 40% of hair is in the growing stage at one time. You will need to complete the recommended number of treatments to make sure all the hairs have been caught in their growth cycle for the best results.
How long does each treatment take?
It depends on the size of the area to be treated. Again during your consultation your therapist will be able to tell you more accurately, but to give you an idea, a small area such as the upper lip would take about 30 minutes.
Can I still remove hair between treatments?
Yes. You can shave or trim hair, however, you shouldn't pluck, use depilatory creams or wax as these remove hair from within the follicle.
Am I suitable?
Most people, male and female, can benefit from Visage laser care. At your consultation the therapist will do a patch test to check your suitability. Female patients with hirsutism may be treated but the underlying cause may mean regular treatments are necessary. You may not be suitable for laser treatment if you are currently undergoing treatment for viral infections such as herpes, have a history of sensitivity to light, if you have epilepsy, if you have suffered from melasma in the area you want treated, if you are pregnant or under 18 years old. You could be unsuitable if you have a suntan or fake tan, you will have to wait until your tan has faded. Their may be other medical conditions that prevent treatment. Your therapist will be able to talk to you about these at your consultation.
Will it work on all shades of hair?
The treatment is not suitable on areas where the hair is very light blond or grey.
Does it hurt?
Most people tolerate the treatment very well, likening it to having an elastic band pinged against the skin. However, you should bear in mind that some people are more sensitive than others. You may also feel a warming sensation as the hair heats up and the treatment begins to work. The specially designed applicator feature cooling device helps to relieve any discomfort.
Some areas on your body are more sensitive than others and, after treatment, it may look red and 'goosebumpy'. This will go down in a few hours. In some cases, the skin can become darker or lighter. You can minimise these effects by avoiding sun exposure for A weeks prior to and during treatment and also using a sunscreen of SPF15 or higher throughout the course. In extremely rare cases, blistering and scabbing may occur, or temporary foliates. If you are concerned about anything please ask the therapist at your consultation.
What long term side effect might I experience?
Laser has been used in the medical profession for the last 10 years and no long term side effects have been reported.
Do I need to wear anything special?
No. There is a private changing area and robes are provided to help you get more comfortable.
What do I do before the treatment?
Do not use bleach or use depilatory creams for 1 week prior to the treatment. Do not tweeze, wax or have electrolysis for at least 1 month prior to or during treatment. Do not use products containing retinol and irritant such as retin-a, benzoyl peroxide and glycolic acid prior to or during treatments in the area treated. Do not sunbathe, use sunbeds or fake tan 1 month prior to treatment.
Prior to treatment the area will need to be shaved. This can be done by yourself before attending the laser clinic or by the laser practitioner. Make sure the areas to be treated have been freshly washed and no make up.
Post Laser Care
What do I do after a treatment?
Avoid very hot baths or showers and gently pat the skin dry after bathing. Avoid direct exposure to bright sunlight for a minimum of two weeks following treatment and wear a high factor sunscreen of at least 25 spf. Do not use fake tans during a course of treatments.
What if I get a reaction?
Any initial reaction to the laser should settle down in a few days. Apply aloe vera gel to the treated area twice daily until irritation has settled.
What do I need do to?
When you arrive for your pre-booked consultation, give your name to the receptionist. You will be asked to sit in the waiting area and will then be shown to the treatment room.
The laser technician will discuss your medical history and complete a medical form. They will then answer any concerns, describe the treatment and produce a personal treatment plan.
The laser technician will do a patch test on the area to be treated. This will determine the most effective level of light to be used in your treatment sessions. At the end of the test a moisturising cream or cooling gel will be applied to the area that has been tested. You need to wait two days to a week depending on skin colour to see if you experience any side effects. After this week you can begin treatment immediately.
There is a fee charged for the consultation which is refunded if you are medically unsuitable for treatment. Please see our price list for the cost of the consultation and discount offers when you book a treatment plan.
If you do not understand any of the information provided in this booklet or if you would like to make any comments or suggestions about the patient guide please contact us.
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