How Does It Work?
At Las Colinas Dermatology we utilize a state-of-the art SPLENDOR X from Lumenis, which lets us customize hair removal across an infinite spectrum of skin tones like never before. The laser energy is transformed into heat, which destroys or damages the hair follicle leaving the surrounding skin unaffected. The skin is further protected during treatment with cooled air (a Dual Cooling System) allowing the treatment to be virtually painless.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
Since the laser light only targets hairs that are in an actively growing phase, several treatments at 4-8 week intervals are required to progressively eliminate new hairs that enter the growing phase. Many factors can affect the number of sessions required, including skin color, hair color and thickness, and hormones. In general, very fair skin and very dark hair respond the fastest to treatment. At Las Colinas Dermatology we offer laser hair removal in packages of up to 6 treatments. Most of the hair is removed or reduced in the first few treatments, while the last few of the 6 treatments are typically used for “stragglers”, or hairs that come into the growing phase later, in smaller numbers.
What Should I Expect?
Depending on the amount of hair treated, the procedure varies from patient to patient. With the Splendor X we can treat an entire body in as little as 30 minutes. You will be asked to wear safety eyewear as a small handpiece delivers the laser light. A refreshing flow of cold air will be felt on the skin as the treatment is being performed to maximize comfort. The degree of discomfort varies with each person, depending on his/her pain threshold, but most can agree that it is very comfortable and virtually painless.
A test area may be done prior to your treatment. The full treatment may then be done on the same day or up to two weeks later, depending on the skin reaction. The treated area maybe come pink or a little red within 30 minutes of treatment; this may last from a few hours to a few days and is usually relieved to the application of ice or cooling gel.
When Is The Best Time For Treatment? What About Sun Exposure?
Complications from laser hair reduction are rare, but their risk is increased in tanned skin, so Dr. Black recommends no sun exposure to the area to be treated for four weeks prior to treatment. Also, the laser-treated areas are more sensitive to sunlight for a few weeks, so a broad spectrum sunscreen is recommended at all times. Any areas that will be exposed to the sun regularly such as the face or legs should be treated in the fall, winter or spring, once the tan has faded.
Why Should I Have Laser Hair Reduction At Las Colinas Dermatology Instead Of A Discount “Laser Center”?
As a board certified dermatologist, Dr. Alison Black is a specialist in the treatment of skin, hair and nails. She is a member of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the two premiere organizations that provide ongoing advanced education in laser procedures and dermatologic cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic and medical laser procedures are not an afterthought at Las Colinas Dermatology; rather they are an area of expertise Dr. Alison Black, our board certified physician assistant Cheryl Sundlov and our staff are committed to and update our training for in an ongoing manner. Though advances in technology have made laser hair reduction quick and relatively painless, it is still a medical procedure and Dr. Black, Cheryl Sundlov, PA-C and their staff have the experience, knowledge and training to provide you with the most up-to-date care and treatment.
Call Las Colinas Dermatology at 972.432.0300 and we will be glad to answer any questions and schedule a consultation to see how Splendor X laser hair reduction can reduce your time spent shaving and plucking unwanted hair.
