Laser Hair Removal FAQs

What does it feel like?
The Coolglide Laser feels like a mild sting for a fraction of a second. It has a built-in cooling tip that not only protects the skin but also helps to minimize the discomfort.

How long do the treatments take?
An upper lip and chin can be done in 5 to 10 minutes. Underarms or bikini lines usually take 15 to 20 minutes. Legs and back take longer. Very often, follow up treatments are shorter (and less expensive) because there is much less hair to treat.

How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatments required for optimal results varies depending on the area treated, hair density, growth cycle, treatment parameters used and another factors. Typically 3 to 6 treatments, 4 to eight weeks apart may be required to achieve the desired results.

Results - What should you expect?
There is often no immediate change. Your skin may get slightly red or even develop a small crust that will peel. The laser may leave small marks on your skin. The marks clear up in a few hours to a few days. The hair that has been destroyed will continue to fall out for 2-3 weeks. Many times it will get darker and thicker just before it falls out. Don't worry if you do not see an obvious change immediately after your first treatment.

It is permanent?
Treatment results may vary among patients. For some this may mean a significant decrease in the frequency in which you  must shave. For others it may mean permanent cosmetic improvement because hair re-growth is minimal, very fine or completely absent. Most patients will lose on average, 20% to 30% permanently with each treatment. Everyone will have some re-growth with time regardless of the technology used. Hair that grows back will tend to be much finer and less concentrated.

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Laser Vein FAQs

What is laser vein removal?
Laser technology offers a very effective means of treating spider veins. The laser has a unique ability to selectively target blood vessels without adversely affecting surrounding tissue. The vessels are gently heated, causing the blood in the vessels to clot. The body reabsorbs the treated blood vessels during the natural healing process.

Will laser therapy work on my veins?
The Excell laser can treat spider veins, reticular veins (deeper blue veins) and facial veins. We offer a complimentary consultation to evaluate and access your veins. Prior surgery or treatment on your veins could affect the treatment outcome.

What does it feel like?
Although many patients report little or no discomfort, some may experience a mild stinging sensation only when the laser pulse is delivered. The cold tip on the hand piece helps soothe the skin before and after the laser energy is delivered.

How long will the treatment take?
Treatment time should be 15 to 30 minutes but may vary depending on the number and size of the vessel(s) to be treated.

How many treatments will I need?
Depending upon the severity of the veins, you may require between 1 and 3 laser treatments, spaced at 6 weeks apart. The treatment is performed on the existing blood vessels, diminishing or completely eliminating their appearance. However, any new developing veins cannot be prevented. If you body tends to develop vascular problems, you will probably have to return for further treatments.

What happens to the skin after the treatment?
Patients may experience some temporary redness, swelling or bruising. This doesn't happen often, and is typically gone within a few hours. Others may experience pigment changes in skin color, but these will disappear and return to normal over time. Since laser treatment does not burn or cut the skin in any way, no bandages are necessary.

When can I resume normal activities?
Although we encourage you to resume normal activities almost immediately, we do ask that you refrain from vigorous exercise and avoid hot tubs for at least 24 hours post treatment. Also avoid direct sun exposure after treatment and if you do go in the sun, protect the treated area with a minimum SPF 30 Sun Block (not sunscreen).
If treating facial veins avoid any irritants to your skin, such as any products containing Retin-A, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolyc/salicylic acids or astringents for one week before and after your treatment.

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How does Laser Lipo work?
This laser-assisted lipolysis procedure is performed using a one millimeter cannula (or tube) inserted into the skin. A laser fiber inside of the cannula delivers energy directly to fat cells, causing them to rupture and drain away as liquid. Simultaneously, tissue around the area coagulates, resulting in overall tighter skin tissue.

What areas of the body can be treated?
Laser Lipo is ideal for the neck, jaw line, arms, breasts, "bra fat," abdomen, "love handles,' "saddle bags," inner and outer thighs and knees.

Is there a recovery period?
Laser Lipo is a minimally invasive procedure which usually requires only local anesthesia. Some light trauma can occur, but you'll be able to return to work in a couple of days and resume exercise after 2 weeks.

How many treatments are required?
Typically only one treatment is required. Results can be seen within a week, with continued improvement over 3 to 6 months. A compression garment may be worn for a short period after treatment, depending on the body area treated.

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Who should consider a Vitalize Peel?
Anyone who wants their skin to look better and help fight the effects of time should consider Vitalize Peel. Those who have sun-damaged, aging, blemish-prone, acne scarring skin, hyper pigmentation, melasma or general poor skin quality will benefit most.

How long will the treatment take?
From start to finish the procedure should take approximately 20 minutes. There is little or no downtime.

When can I schedule my next peel?
Vitalize Peel is gentle enough to use every three weeks for maximum benefits. Ask your skin care professional when to schedule your next peel.

What should I do after my peel?

• You may be more sensitive to the sun, so limit sun exposure during treatment and for at least one week afterward. Use SkinMedica's Daily Sun Protection far Faces, or any sunscreen of at least SPF 20 or higher.

• Avoid strenuous exercise for at least two to three days, as the perspiration may irritate the skin.

• When washing your face, do not scrub. Use a gentle cleanser such as SkinMedica's Sensitive Skin Cleanser.

• Avoid wearing foundations after the treatment or during the days when the skin is actually peeling. Many foundations contain ingredients that are greasy, fragranced, and irritating.

• Do not "help" the skin to peel to avoid scarring or rashes. Do not pull on or peel shedding skin. Control the flaking with a light moisturizer such as SkinMedica's Ultra Sheer Moisturizer.

• Do not have any other facial treatments for at least one week after your Vitalize Peel® You may resume regular use of Retin-A, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) products, or bleaching creams only after the peeling process is complete.

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