Laser Hair Removal

Branford Center

2 Chestnut Street
Branford, CT
Directions
203.871.3799
info@fuzionct.com

Experience smooth, hair-free, silky skin. The latest technology in laser hair removal provides permanent hair reduction no matter what your skin color, even tanned skin. Each area will be assessed and treated by licensed medical professionals.

Laser hair removal is a permanent long term reduction in hair growth. It is not a permanent removal of all of the hair in the treated area. Most people can expect a 90% reduction in hair in the treated area after 4-6 treatments. Periodic "touch-ups" may be needed yearly.

How does the laser work?
A laser produces a beam of highly concentrated light. Different types of lasers produce different colors of light. The light emitted by the laser is absorbed by the pigment in hair follicles and hair shafts, damaging the follicle. The laser pulses for a fraction of a second, just long enough to affect the pigment but not long enough to damage the surrounding skin. The laser has a handpiece with a chilled tip, and this contact-cooling further protects the skin. Because the laser energy is absorbed by pigment, it is very important to not be suntanned for one month prior to treatment. If you do have a suntan, the pigment in the skin may absorb some of the laser energy, resulting in a white spot on the skin that may or may not return to the normal skin color.

What does the treatment involve?
Eye protection during treatment is required. Depending on the area being treated, an anesthetic cream may be applied for 15 to 20 minutes to minimize discomfort. When the laser "fires" you will feel a stinging sensation similar to the feeling of a rubber band being slapped against the skin. The handpiece is repositioned and the laser is activated again. The size of the area to be treated will determine the number of laser activations, or "pulses", required.

Is laser hair removal for you?
Although laser hair removal is generally safe, some people make better candidates for the procedure than others. People who may not make ideal candidates include those being treated for removal of red, blonde or gray hair, those being treated with isotretinoin, those prone to keloid scarring, and those with suppressed immune systems. Patients with a history of herpes infections in the treatment area will be given oral herpes medication to prevent an outbreak.

How many sessions are needed?
The number of sessions will vary for each person. Usually, we recommend between 4-6 visits, every 4-6 weeks, for best results per area. Some areas of the body may require fewer sessions. During your first visit, the laser disables those follicles in the "active" phase of the growth cycle. Follicles in the "dormant" phase will not be affected. Since follicles cycle through "active" and "dormant" phases, additional sessions may be desired once the "dormant" follicles become "active".

What do you need to do to prep for your laser treatment?
Make sure you have not waxed or tweezed in the area to be treated for at least 4 weeks prior to your treatment. You should shave the area being treated the day before your appointment. You must not be tan by the sun, creams, sprays or a booth before your treatment.

Are there any risks or side effects?
Immediately after the treatment the skin, particularly at each of the hair follicles, will look pink and slightly swollen, and may itch. This usually subsides within an hour or two, but may persist for one to two days before returning to normal. Most people return to work or normal activities immediately after treatment. The hair in the treated area will shed from the follicle over the next 2 weeks, and you may experience a period of hairlessness in the area while you wait for your next treatment. Some of the hair that is initially gone may return, which is why it is important to follow up for your next treatment. In very few cases, a darkening or lightening of the treated skin may occur. Burning or blistering of the skin is also possible. While these adverse reactions are uncommon and temporary, they can last a few months in some cases.

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