Consumer Guide
to Laser Hair Removal, Part 3
A complete guide for the consumer containing important
information on laser hair removal. Sponsored by the American Institutes
of Laser Medicine and the Institute
of Laser Medicine at 100 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles.
11. Myths 3: Laser hair removal limitation of
effectiveness.
Contrary to the statements of those unfamiliar with this new
technology, laser hair removal is effective when properly performed
for the great majority of candidates. Non-responders are usually
limited to those with blonde or red hair.
12. Qualifications of laser hair removal personnel.
Requirements vary by state. In California laser hair removal
can only be performed by a licensed M.D., R.N, or Nurse Practitioner.
Electrologists, Medical Assistants, and other unlicensed personnel
cannot perform laser hair removal.
13. Importance of experience in selecting a laser hair removal
facility.
Experience is crucial in selecting the proper laser parameters
to use for any given area for any individual patient. Centers
with the most experience generally have the best results.
14. Tanning and laser hair removal.
Tanning and laser hair removal are not compatible. Tanning
prior to the procedure will necessitate turning the laser power
down, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.
15. Adverse treatment reactions.
Pigmentary change of the skin treated can occur, including
either dark or light areas. Pigmentary changes may persist for
months, but are almost always temporary. They are very rare in
patients with fair skin who are untanned. Blisters and burns are
rare but occasionally occur, particularly in patients with dark
skin.
16. Diet and laser hair removal.
Diet is generally unrelated, except for Beta-Carotene, which
interferes with the treatment.
17. Beta-Carotene and laser hair removal.
Beta Carotene, found in carrots, vitamin A supplements, squash,
and other vegetables, is deposited in the skin, producing a subtle
orange or yellow color in the skin. This pigment absorbs laser
energy, preventing it from reaching the hair follicle, and increasing
the absorption of laser energy in the skin. Beta carotene persists
for months after ingestion. Patients interested in the best results
from laser hair removal will benefit from discontinuation of the
use of all forms of beta carotene.
18. Laser hair removal and children.
Laser hair removal is successful for children but it does
require their cooperation.
19. Laser hair removal for African-Americans.
The darker one's skin, the more difficult it is to obtain
adequate results from laser hair removal. The darker one's skin
the more sessions one requires and the greater the chance of an
adverse result. New lasers (2004) available at specialized
laser hair removal centers can now provide effective laser
hair removal for most patients, now matter what their skin type.
20. Laser hair removal for other people of color.
The best results are obtained when the hair to be treated
is considerably darker than the surrounding skin. Also coarse
hair is easier to remove. Fine, light hair in people of color
is difficult to remove.
21. Who should not have laser hair removal.
Patients with a recently acquired dark tan. Blondes or redheads
with any recent tan. People of color with fine, light hair. Anyone
who cannot afford multiple sessions(one treatment is rarely adequate).
22. How to assess a laser hair removal facility.
Research the qualifications of the Medical Director of the
facility. Is he or she Board Certified in Dermatology? Is there
more than one Board Certified Doctor on the staff? Are all personnel
performing the procedure licensed physicians or Registered Nurses?
Is the facility affiliated with an academic medical center? Is
the atmoshere professional? Remember this is a medical procedure,
and should be selected with the same care you give to selecting
a surgeon.
Further
Information on laser hair removal, including before and after
photographs
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Sponsored
by the American Institutes of Laser Medicine and the Institute
of Laser Medicine 100 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, California
90095.
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