What is Profile?
Profile is an infrared laser that can selectively
target microstructures such as hair follicles. It
is very effective for lighter skin types, and because
of the relatively low absorption of this light by
melanin, it is the best choice when treating darker
skin types. Additionally, the ability to safely treat
sun-tanned skin makes this the treatment of choice
for active individuals.
What treatments are available?
Waxing, shaving, and the use of depilatory
creams are well-established methods for hair removal,
although
temporary. Electrolysis is the traditional tried
and tested method for permanent hair removal, but
is often very time-consuming and inefficient. These
days, the most popular and most effective method
for hair removal is the use of lasers which have
been specifically designed to damage and destroy
many hairs in a short time, with little chance
of complications. People are interested in laser
hair removal because it involves new and efficient
technology, and because its effects are permanent
in over 80% of its subjects.
What is laser hair removal?
Laser hair removal offers patients a safe,
fast, and effective alternative for dealing with unwanted
hair. Lasers work by emitting a specialized light
that is passed through the skin and preferentially
absorbed by its target, ie unwanted blood
vessels, birthmarks, or in this case, hair. The laser
used in hair removal targets the melanin (color)
in the hair follicle, damaging the follicle and removing
the hair.
Laser hair removal is safe enough to be used on
all body parts, including the face, back, underarms,
bikini line, legs, and arms.
Can all skin colors be treated?
Yes all skin types I thorough VI can be treated.
Skin Type I is very fair, always burns, never tans
(usually blonde hair and blue eyes). Skin Type VI
never burns (black skin, black hair).
Can tanned skin be treated?
Tanned skin can be treated
safely, but always inform your physician if you have
been tanning or exposed
to the sun within the last three weeks, and (s)he
will adjust your treatment regimen accordingly
to give
you the safest, most effective experience.
What happens during hair removal treatment?
Your
physician will discuss the treatment with you and
decide if you need a topical anesthetic cream.
The area of your skin that is to be treated will
be scanned with laser light from the Profile system.
Treatment time will depend upon the area to be treated.
A system for cooling your skin will be used to remove
heat as it leaves the follicles and should ensure
a comfortable treatment. However, since the sensation
varies from individual to individual, a topical anesthesia
can be provided. Let your physician know if you are
very sensitive.
How does it work?
The Profile laser selectively targets
your hair follicles and heats them with infra-red
energy. Unlike
other processes the laser beam treats many hairs
at once making treatment of large areas practical.
The Profile employs a unique computer-guided scanning
system that automates the treatment, ensuring that
your skin is rapidly and evenly treated. The computer
sets the parameters and places the beam in an optimum
pattern for your skin. You will have a safe, fast,
effective, and gentle treatment.
What should I expect after treatment?
Some redness and slight swelling may be present
in the area that has been treated, however, this
should subside within a few hours. If any prolonged
redness or swelling occurs then consult your physician.
Keep area clean.
Use at least SPF 15 sunscreen when outdoors.
Follow physician instructions.
Is there a risk of complications?
There is a low risk of pigmentary changes, however
discuss your concerns with your physician prior to
your treatment.
Can pseudofolliculitis be treated?
Yes. Pseudofolliculitis
is a type of chronic acne disorder caused by ingrown
coarse or curly hairs.
This disorder affects darker skin types, and the
infrared energy, which is delivered by Profile, is
the preferred method of treatment.
Is treatment permanent?
On average, each laser treatment will be associated
with some permanent hair loss. So in most cases hair
removal can only be achieved after several treatments.
The number of treatments will depend on each patient's
individual response to laser surgery, and the amount
of hair to be removed. Remember that the goal may
not be total hair removal. Many patients are happy
with a reasonable degree of hair reduction. Also
remember that the hair that remains is often lighter
in color and thinner than the original hair prior
to laser surgery. As with other treatments for unwanted
hair, there is no guarantee that laser hair removal
treatment will be permanent.
How many treatments will I need?
You
may need to be treated 6 times at approximately
6-week intervals. There are three
phases of hair growth - anagen, catagen, and
telogen. Only hairs in the active growth, anagen,
can be successfully treated.
Does treatment hurt? What can I expect with the
procedure?
Most patients describe laser hair removal
as feeling "prickly," or
like the light snap of a rubber band against the
skin. Afterwards, it might feel like a bad sunburn.
Each patient has his or her own level of skin sensitivity
and pain threshold. Different areas on the body are
also more sensitive than others.
On the day of your treatment, plan on wearing clothing
that will allow easy access to the area being treated.
You may not need any type of anesthesia for your
treatments. Laser hair removal works best when the
hair is 1 to 2 millimeters in length. No specific
care is needed after the treatment.
How long will it take my skin to heal?
Normally the
skin just looks red and swollen for up to 48 hours,
or possibly longer. Some patients
will be offered to have a small area tested before
undergoing a full treatment. This gives them a idea
of how the treatment will feel, and the length of
time it will take to obtain the desired result. Occasionally,
patients can develop a blistering reaction. If this
happens, call your treating physician and ask for
specific post-laser treatment options.
What will I look like immediately afterwards?
Generally,
some redness will remain for approximately five to
seven days. For some patients recovery time
will be less while other patients will have prolonged
redness.
How much does treatment cost?
The cost of treatment
is dependent on many factors. These factors include
the size of the area treated and the number
of treatments necessary.
Will my insurance cover treatment?
Unwanted hair is usually a cosmetic issue,
so in most cases you should expect to pay for treatment.
In the rare instances where treatment is considered
medically-necessary, insurance may cover the cost
of treatment. It's best to speak to your doctor and
your insurance company to clarify this question.
How do I get started?
If you're considering a treatment and are interested in learning more, please schedule a free consultation by calling RefineMD at 920-779-1106 or 888-434-0698 or click here to contact us. |
