Silky Skin

Posted Tuesday, September 11, 2007 to PROCEDURES > Skin

Posted by The Original Anti-Aging & Cosmetic Surgery Magazine

Jeffrey S Dover MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School spoke to Sally Waddington about the benefits of the GentleLASE laser for hair removal.

For many of us, hair removal is an annoying chore we put up with to achieve the smooth skin we want. But shaving, waxing and plucking are just a hassle - a time-consuming effort we would rather do without. Hair removal lasers are a safe, effective and more permanent way to get rid of that unwanted hair.

As with any treatment or procedure, there are always risks, and sometimes unwanted after effects. With most laser hair removal systems, one of these side effects is the blistering or crusting of the treated area post-treatment. The new Candela GentieLASE contains a unique Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD)that protects the upper layer of skin, while still affecting the hair follicles and preventing their growth.

"The DCD is by far the most sophisticated cooling device on the market," said Jeffrey S Dover, MD. "I've been using it for two years and I've never seen a patient get a scab or crust when I use the GentleLASE."The cooling system works by freezing the upper layer of skin, the epidermis, keeping it numb and not able to be damaged, while still leaving the lower dermis warm, where the hair follicles are treated. "Only the hair follicle heats and is damaged, while the overlying epidermis remains perfectly intact," explained Dr Dover.This system means the laser can treat and remove the unwanted hair, while leaving the patient without any blistering or cracking after the treatment. Laser hair removal is now a more convenient alternative to older methods.

Post-operative care

• Straight after the treatment, the doctor may apply ice or cooled gel packs to the area to reduce swelling or other skin damage.
• Keep the area moist, using ointments provided by your doctor.
• For the first 24-48 hours, you may need to apply a topical corticosteroid if instructed by your doctor.
• If blistering or other skin, damage should occur, topical antibiotics will be helpful.
• Try not to touch the treated area, especially not scratching or picking at the area.
• Use a very strong sunscreen and stay out of direct sunlight when possible.
• You can't wax, pluck or use electrolysis on the area to be treated for six weeks prior to the treatment.
• However, you CAN shave and use depilatory creams on the area.
• The skin should be covered with sunscreen whenever you're out in the sun to protect it from ultra violet A and B rays. Between treatments you should try not to get a tan.
• Sunless tanning products should be avoided.
• Those with darker skin may need to use a bleaching cream to aid the treatment, but this is something your doctor will inform you of if necessary.
• On the day before the procedure, you should shave the area to be treated, or if you prefer, use a depilatory cream.
• On the day of the treatment, make sure the area is clean, with no makeup or moisturizer on it.
• The doctor will administer topical anesthetic if required.

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