The Procedure
This technology can be used on light and dark skins where there is a contrast between the hair and skin. A brief consultation with one of our highly-trained LightSheer™ specialists should provide all the information needed. Depending on the area, 4 to 8 sessions are required. Sessions are usually spaced 6 to 12 weeks apart. The number of sessions are usually discussed and explained to you on your first consultation.
The hair does not have to be long - 0,5mm to 1mm long will suffice. Do not wax or pluck ± 2 weeks before your treatment. However you can shave, cut or use hair removal creams prior to your appointment.
Before each session begins, system settings are computer-customized according to skin color and type and the area of the body being treated. Treatment begins by trimming away any hair above the surface of the skin and then conducting test spots to determine the client's skin response to different device settings.
Next, a cold gel (similar to ultrasound gel) is usually spread over the treatment area. This helps to keep the skin cool and to focus the light treatment. Clients wear special eyewear to protect their eyes from the bright light.
The smooth, glass surface of the LightSheer™ handpiece is moved over the treatment area, while light-based energy is emitted in highly controlled flashes or pulses. This heats up the hair, significantly damaging the re-growth potential of the follicle. When the gel is removed, much of the hair is wiped off with it. Additional hair may fall out over the next week or two.
Each laser pulse treats about a one-centimeter area, which can contain ten or more hairs. The amount of time needed depends on the size of the area to be treated. The lip usually takes less than 2 minutes while other areas may take significantly longer. For example: the full back on an adult man would take approximately 1 - 1½ hours, and a lady's legs approximately 1½ -3 hours.
Some body areas are more sensitive than others. Clients may experience a slightly uncomfortable tingling sensation, although some people do not experience any discomfort at all. Overall, the sensation is similar to waxing.
The appearance of the treated area immediately following treatment will vary from person to person depending on the extent of the procedure and skin type. Within about 30 minutes of treatment, the area may become pink or red, and may feel like mild sunburn for a day or so. Side effects, if any, are usually minor. There may be some redness and swelling around the treated hair follicles; this is a desired clinical result indicating that the follicle has responded to treatment. This reaction typically disappears within hours. Most people return to normal activity right away. On rare occasions, some blistering may occur, but this typically resolves quickly. The skin can become darker or lighter following treatment, but will generally return to normal within a few weeks. Limiting sun exposure before and after each treatment will minimize the risk of complications. |
