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Hair Removal

Soprano / SHR Hair Removal

The Soprano XL diode laser system as well as the Harmony "in motion" laser hair removal system are intended for hair removal and permanent hair reduction. Both Soprano and Harmony systems are intended for use on all skin types, including tan skin.

The goal in laser hair epilation is to heat the hair follicle to a temperature high enough to destroy it without damaging the surrounding tissue. By elevating the temperature of the hair follicle, damage to the germinative cells, cells responsible for hair growth, occurs. The damaged follicle is rendered useless and eliminated through a physiological process known as phagocytosis.

Contraindications to Treatment

  • Cancer, particularly skin cancer
  • Pregnancy, including IVF (in-vitro fertilization)
  • Use of photosensitizing medications and herbs for which the 810nm light exposure is contraindicated
  • Disease which may be stimulated by an 810nm wave length
  • Prolonged exposure to the sun, including artificial tanning during the 3-4 weeks prior to and after treatments
  • Active herpes skin infections – If you have a history of HSV-1, also known as a cold sore or fever blister, please inform the office immediately prior to any treatments so that appropriate prophylactic reactions can be given.
  • Active skin infections
  • History of Keloid scarring
  • Insulin-dependent Diabetes
  • Fragile or dry skin
  • Hormonal disorders that are stimulated under intense light
  • Use of anti-coagulant medications, i.e. blood thinners
  • Epilepsy
  • History of coagulopathies, or blood clotting disorders such as venous stasis, etc.

Potential Side Effects of Treatment

  • Discomfort
  • Damage to natural skin texture – a crust or blister formation – Normal wound care applies, so please contact the office as soon as possible should you encounter any such reaction.
  • Change in pigmentation
  • Scarring – a very small chance of scarring as well as hypertrophic keloid scarring – Please inform the office of any history of such pre-existing conditions.
  • Excessive swelling – Immediately after treatment, it is not uncommon to be red, swollen and a bit tender around the treatment sites. This will dissipate on its own, usually within 2-12 hours, but may remain up to 7 days.
  • Bruising may appear on the treated area which may last from a few hours to several days.

Adverse Effects of Treatment

  • Severe or prolonged erythema (redness) and edema (swelling) within 2-24 hours of treatment that could last for several weeks
  • Irritation, itching, a mild burning sensation or pain, similar to a sunburn, may occur.
  • Blisters, epidermal erosions or peri-lesional hyperpigmentation may develop and remain evident for several days to several weeks following treatment.
  • Eye damage from reflected or prolonged unprotected exposure to laser light – You must wear the protective eye wear supplied during the treatment.

Pre-Treatment Patient Care

  • Disclose to your provider your recent sun tanning or UV exposure history.
  • Only shave the area to be treated. Do not wax, thread, pluck or have electrolysis performed prior to the treatment. The root of the hair follicle below the surface of the skin is necessary for treatment success.
  • Do not wear make-up, sunscreen, perfumes or lotions to your appointment.
  • Avoid using any tretinoin (RETIN A) type products, microdermabrasion and dermal planning of the skin to be treated for 3 days prior to treatment and 3 days after.

Post-Treatment Patients Care

  • Avoid aerobic exercise for 24 hours.
  • Avoid hot baths, saunas and Jacuzzis for 24 hours.
  • If the skin is broken or has blister formation, apply an antibiotic ointment such as Neosporin, as long as you are not allergic to it. If problems persist, contact the office so that any broken skin or blister formation can be treated appropriately.
  • Cold packs, aloe vera or other cooling preparations may be used to ease any temporary discomfort from treatment.
  • Sun exposure should be avoided 3 weeks before and after all treatments to insure the best results about the sun-exposed skin areas. Although we are able to treat tan skin, the setting is much lower and may require additional treatment time.
  • A total block should be used when UV exposed, not a sunscreen. A total block contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
  • Make-up may be applied immediately after your treatment as long as no blister formation has developed or broken skin is visible.
  • Schedule your sessions approximately 1 month apart for best results.

Please do not hesitate to contact our office for any questions or concerns regarding your treatment. We want you to receive the best treatment possible and we can only do so with your cooperation and contact. If you notice anything that seems out-of-the-norm, contact the office.