I hereby authorize Apollo Aesthetics LLC, and the professional staff to perform laser hair removal, and all future laser hair removal treatments through the duration of my sessions.
What Laser Hair Removal Does
Laser hair removal involves the use of a non-invasive diode laser device for the reduction of facial or body hair. This works by emitting a beam if energy on the hairs that are in the active stage of growth and thus, it does not work on dormant hairs. Causing thermal damage to the underlying follicle and reducing its ability to produce hair in the future. The procedure for this requires more than one session. Please take note as well that the hair removal session may vary per individual depending on the size of area, amount of hair, density, hair color, and other contributing factors like genetics, hormones, etc. However, on average, we recommend around 6-12 sessions. Laser hair removal is not completely permanent and maintenance sessions are necessary.
Preparatory Care Procedures
Prior to undergoing treatment, one must avoid over-exposure to sunlight or using tanning treatments. Prepare this at least a month prior to the treatment date.
It is likewise necessary to have the area to be treated shaved a day before or day of the appointment date. If the area is not shaved we will have to shave the area in office before treatment, and can cause irritation.
The hair needs to be in the follicle, please do not wax, tweeze, or use hair-removing creams for 4 weeks before first treatment, that can affect it greatly decreasing the efficacy of laser hair removal treatments.
It is recommended to avoid retinoids or exfoliating acids 3-5 days before treatment, and must wait 6 months after last dose of accutane. You must be off any medications or antibiotics that can affect the skin's photosensitivity and therefore can be dangerous when undergoing any laser treatment for at least 2 weeks.
Potential Risks and Expectations
Minor wounds. Laser hair removal treatment can result in blistering, flaking of the skin, scabbing, or erythema (swelling) on the surface of the treated skin areas. It is important any of these heal before undergoing the next treatment.
Discomfort. Patients may experience discomfort and mild pain during the treatment. Please take note that this is a normal occurrence.
Pigment changes. There is the possibility that there might be a darkening or lightening of the color of the skin during the healing process. This is usually temporary but on rare occasions, it can be permanent.
Eye exposure. Exposure to the eye with lasers can lead to temporary or permanent eye damage. However, please take note that we will provide eye protection during the treatment period. Please keep the protection on during the treatment and do not remove it unless allowed by us.
Scar. Scarring might occur in rare instances, especially if the prior or post procedures are not complied with. Thus, it is important that the pre and post-procedural treatment guidelines are carefully followed.
Infection. Although rare with laser hair reduction, if you have a history of cold sores, you may want to pre treat with an antiviral from your doctor.
Allergic Reaction. Reactions from treatment are rare, and can be described as the above if lasting longer than 24+ hours. Reactions can also be caused from the use of numbing cream, if used, before treatment.
Post Care Instructions
Avoid scratching, itching, touching, or picking on your skin's treated area as this may get irritated or infected. Avoid any tanning or being exposed under the sun for long periods for 2 weeks after treatment. This may cause hyper pigmentation on the treated area. It is required to use a spf of 30 or greater on the treated area immediately after treatment and during the duration of sessions. The area will burn easier and be more sensitive. Avoid excess sweating, hot tubes, saunas, hot showers and steam, self tanning lotion, and sun exposure for 24 hours after treatment.