With summer soon to arrive, here are some FAQ & A's for laser hair removal!
What machine do you use?
At Reviva, we use the Cheveux Diode Laser - it emits pulses at a higher power and repetition rate than most hair removal devices. It's Smooth Flow Technology enhances patient safety by delivering low energy rapidly to provide a more gradual delivery. The wavelength it uses is safe for all skin tones, and smaller, more delicate areas such as the face, fingers, and toes.
What exactly happens during laser hair removal?
The laser machine delivers high energy pulses of light into the skin to be selectively absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft. The machine we use has a high absorption rate in melanin, and the wavelength it uses penetrates gradually and deeply enough to reach the bulb of the hair follicle. This thermally destroys the hair follicle. The hair then gradually works itself out of the pore over the next few weeks and falls out.
What areas can be treated with laser hair removal?
Pretty much anywhere! We've had patients come in to get their bikini line treated, but the most common area requested for treatment would be the armpits. The machine we use is safe for all skin tones, including tanned skin, and smaller, more delicate areas of the body as well.
What are the side effects?
Most side effects are redness and mild swelling, which usually resolves by itself or with the help of cold compresses or ice packs, which we also offer during treatment. Patients can go about their daily activities right after treatment.
Is there any downtime?
Nope! You can go about your daily activities right after. We do recommend avoiding deodorant or sprays for the rest of the day, though, to minimize any irritation that may occur.
Why do I need multiple sessions?
The hair on our body grows in cycles of 3 main phases. The amount of time the hair spends in each phase varies depending on the area of the body, but during the resting phase, the growth stops and once growth resumes again, the hair is ejected, and the growth cycle continues. Roughly 85 to 90% of hairs are in the growing phase at any one time, with the rest in a resting phase. Laser hair removal procedures works for hair in the growing phase, so it takes multiple sessions to catch all of it first, and then maintenance sessions once a year or so.
When will I see results?
Results can actually be seen after one treatment - most patients notice 10-30% decrease in hair density after their first treatment. As mentioned above, though, multiple sessions are necessary for optimal results.
Are the results permanent?
There isn't really a hair removal method that guarantees permanent hair removal. Having said that, however, laser hair removal does provide long-term hair reduction. Since the laser destroys the hair follicle by heating the pigment in the root, there is a chance that there isn't enough pigment to absorb the energy from the laser, and the follicle isn't destroyed. Most of our patients notice significant reduction in the amount of hair after 5 treatments, and even when there is some regrowth afterwards, the hair is generally finer and lighter. Generally, this will last for quite a few years.
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