FAQ’s
How does it work?
An invisible light penetrates the skin without damaging it and is absorbed by the pigments in the hair follicle. This heats the pigment in the hair, reducing the follicle’s capacity for further hair growth. The hair will gradually fall out over the week, leaving an area with reduced hair growth.
Because the laser targets the pigment in the hair root, it is important not to wax or pluck your hair between treatments as this will remove the hair root. For the same reason, hair removal works best when there is colour in the hair. Dark hair responds best and white/grey hair does not respond at all.
How safe is laser hair removal?
Lasers have been in existence for more than thirty-five years and are used in a wide range of medical and therapeutic settings. Since only light is used to remove hair it is totally non-invasive, therefore it does not cause some of the irritations typically found with other hair removal methods.
Laser hair removal is an effective and proven method of permanently reducing hair growth. It is important, however to have a full consultation and to disclose all medical conditions and medication you may be taking. Your therapist will assess your skin type, contraindications and agree a course of treatment at the outset.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments required for optimal long-term benefits depends on multiple factors – hair thickness, the area treated and your hair’s growth cycle. Hair goes through 3 stages of development. Typically in the anagen stage, the hair will respond more effectively to treatment. At any given time, only one third of human hair is in the anagen stage. For this reason, it is necessary to treat an area several times with the treatments spaced approximately 6 weeks apart in order to see the best and longest lasting results. Darker hair will respond better, but both dark and light hair may need 5 or more treatments for maximum response and the best long-term results. Remember, every case is different!
Is it permanent?
Treatment results may vary among patients. You should experience permanent hair reduction – or long term, stable reduction in the number of hairs re-growing – after a treatment regime.
What are the possible side effects?
Although patients experience few side effects, the most commonly noticed are slight reddening and local swelling of the skin, similar to a sunburn. These effects typically last for several hours or less. After-sun cream will usually alleviate the symptoms. In the event of more serious reactions, contact your therapist immediately. Your therapist will make you aware of the risks and side effects. |
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What does it feel like?
The laser treatment may feel like a mild sting for a fraction of a second. It has a built-in cooling tip that not only helps to protect the skin but also helps to minimize the discomfort.
How long do the treatments take?
Underarms or bikini lines usually take up to 30 minutes. Legs and backs take longer. Very often, follow-up treatments are shorter because there is much less hair to treat.
What do I need to do to prepare for my treatment?
You should shave closely prior to your treatment, so that the areas that require treatment are easily recognizable. If not, it may be difficult to pinpoint all areas needing treatment.
Please inform your therapist during your consultation of all medications you are on or expect to be during the period of your treatment plan. If this changes at any stage, you must also inform your therapists – this is for your good, to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.
How will I space out my treatments?
Generally, it is best to wait 4 to 6 weeks between treatments. There is no advantage to scheduling your visits closer together even if you do not see immediate results. The laser only targets hair in the growth phase. The next growth phase will be in 4 to 6 weeks.
What do I do after my treatments?
• Avoid bathing or washing with very hot water. Use tepid water.
• You may feel like you have a mild to moderate sunburn. Minor peeling is not unusual. After-sun or Aloe Vera Gel may help with redness or inflammation of your skin.
• Keep the area clean. Wash gently.
• Avoid direct sun exposure before and after your treatment. If you do go in the sun, protect the treated area with a sunscreen of 30 SPF or higher.
• Do not shave the treated area for at least 4 days after treatment. Do not wax, pluck or use depilatories for the hair that grows back.
• Avoid any irritating medications or chemicals. Examples of these are Retin-A, Benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid or astringents, etc..
How is ProWave 770™ Hair Removal from Cutera different?
The ProWave 770 gives customers treatment choices. The system is completely programmable meaning that we can tailor a treatment specifically to suit your individual needs. The ProWave from Cutera also has an in-built cooling system to make the treatment more comfortable. |
