Laser Hair Removal in New Jersey-How Does it Work?

Laser hair removal works on the principles of selective photothermolysis.  Imagine wearing a dark t-shirt on a hot summer day compared to wearing a white colored t-shirt.  You will feel hotter because the darker color t-shirt absorbs more of the sun's light and converts it to heat.  Laser hair removal works in a similar fashion.  The pigment in the hair follicles results from melanin, the same pigment which gives skin its color.  Everyone has roughly the same number of melanocytes (cells which make melanin), however those with fairer skin produce less of it.  It is this melanin that absorbs the laser's energy, converting it to heat and resulting in the destruction of the hair and its root.  Those with very fine light colored hair or white hair will either not see a reduction or will see a minimum reduction because of the lack of pigment and therefore less absorption of the laser enegy. The greater the difference between the skin color and hair color, the less likely that damage to the skin will be done.  This damage can included pigment changes and rarely  burns and permanent scarring.  Therefore it is very important to choose the right laser or light based device.  Selection depends not only on hair type and color but also skin type. 

Different lasers produce different wavelengths of light and therefore selection of the proper wavelength is paramount especially in darker skin types to limit damage to the surrounding skin. There are different types of lasers for hair removal such as the alexandrite, diode, YAG, as well as IPL or intense pulsed light which is a combination of different wavelengths of light.  The lower the wavelength, the less the laser is able to penetrate but the higher the absorption by the pigment melanin. Therefore in a darker skin type, there is an increased likelihood that the surrounding skin may also absorb the laser energy potentially resulting in pigment changes and burns.

The diode laser is a slightly longer wavelength of light at 810 nm.  This higher wavelength penetrates deeper, but has slightly less absorption by melanin.  This laser can be used more safely than the alexandrite laser in the darker skin types and its effectiveness is similar to the alexandrite laser in terms of permanent hair reduction.  However, one still has to employ proper settings for safe and effective laser hair removal.

The YAG laser is the safest of the three lasers and can be utilized on any skin types with proper utilization of settings.  It is important to remember that any laser can potentially result in untoward effects but the risk with the YAG laser is the least.  The Nd:YAG laser operates in the 1064 nm wavelength.  This longer wavelength implies that it has the greatest penetration but the least amount of absorption by the pigment melanin.  Studies have show that this is the least effective in terms of laser hair removal of the three lasers but it is the safest.  Newer generation YAG lasers will continue to demonstrate increased efficacy for permanent reduction of hair.  The YAG laser is especially limited for removal of light colored and fine hair.

The above absorption spectrum demonstrates absorption by melanin and hemoglobin by different wavelengths of light.  

People often wonder why multiple treatments are required for significant hair reduction.  Hair grows in different stages which include anagen, catagen, and telogen.  It is during the growth phase, or anagen, that destruction of the hair follicle by the laser results in permanent arrest of the growth of that hair.  Destruction of the hair follicle while in catagen or telogen is unlikely to lead to its destruction.  At any given time, only a portion of the hair is in the anagen phase and therefore multiple treatments are required for the cumulative reduction in permanent hair growth.  This translates into 4 to 6 treatments spaced anywhere from 1 to 2 months apart for a 70 to 90% reduction in hair growth. Some people may require more treatments to achieve a significant result while others may see it in fewer treatments.

Different areas of the body have different growth cycles with the fastest hair growth occurring on the face.  Treatments can be performed every three to four weeks.  Growth cycles are slower on areas such as the legs and back where treatments may be performed every 6 to 8 weeks.  

It is very important to realize that while you are getting your laser hair removal treatments that you do no wax, pluck, or thread hair from the area to be treated.  Presence of the hair is required for laser hair removal to be effective.  It is permissible to shave, bleach, or use depilatory products while you are getting the treatments.  In addition, limit sun exposure prior to and after your laser hair removal.  While the YAG laser can be utilized safely on all skin types including tanned skin, the lighter the skin, the less the risk of pigment changes or burns.  Also the laser hair removal provider may be able to utilize more effective lasers the lighter in color your skin is.

You may also want to shave the night prior to the treatments to minimize any irritation that may ensue. Be sure to utilize plenty of sunscreen especially if you are spending any significant time in sun to risk any pigment changes.

During the procedure, the area will be cleansed.  At Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center, we apply a topical anesthetic to mitigate any discomfort the treatments may cause.  Depending on the laser, a gel may be applied to the skin to facilitate the laser hair removal treatments.  Not all lasers require a gel to be placed during the treatments.  In addition, some of our lasers have a chilled metallic plate which keeps the surround skin cooled during the laser hair removal.  This prevents thermal injury to the surrounding skin and limits the destruction to the hair follicle.  We also have a Synercool machine at Ethos Spa, that blows super cold area across the area to be treated to provide additional comfort and decrease thermal injury to the surrounding skin.    Laser hair removal is well tolerated by almost everyone.  Sensation is akin to the snap of a rubber band against the skin. At Ethos Spa, we make every effort to make the treatments as comfortable as possible by using different measures to lessen any discomfort you may experience.

Following the procedure, you may experience redness and swelling at the treatment site.  This can persist for several hours to several days.  

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It may feel like a mild sunburn.  You should not experience any significant pain, discoloration, or blister formation.  Often times, the irritation will resolve within a day.  You can utilize hydrocortisone over-the-counter cream or aloe vera gel in the event of itching or significant irritation.  Notify your provider in the event of excessive pain, pigment changes, or blister formation.

At Ethos Spa, our goal is to educate our clients about the entire process and make them as comfortable as possible in our upscale spa.  Only a board certified physician will perform the laser hair removal procedure.  We will provide you after care instructions and be there for you at any time.  Unlike, traditional medical practices our goal is to be available at all times and our clients can stop in anytime.  Come experience the Ethos difference. All of our clients receive a complimentary consultation with one of our board certified physicians.  Call 908-273-5400 to schedule your consultation or you can visit the Ethos Spa website for more information on all of our services.  You can also visit Laser Hair NJ for more information on the laser hair removal process.

Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center, is located in northern NJ but we service the tri-state area including New York, Pennsylvania, as well as Summit, Chatham, Morristown, Livingston, Millburn, Westfield, New Providence, Berkeley Heights, Basking Ridge, Bridgewater, Union County, Morris County, Essex County, and Bergen County.

Cost of Laser Hair Removal in NJ-Lifetime Guarantee at Ethos Spa

The cost of laser hair removal depends on several different factors. These factors include where the procedure is performed, who performs the procedures, area treated, number of treatments, and the type of laser or light based device used to perform laser hair removal. Prices can vary significantly for laser hair removal but the most important factor should be the experience of the person performing the treatments. The old adage, "You get what you pay for." applies especially to laser hair removal and other cosmetic treatments. While many providers perform these services, some business utilize laser technicians without any medical background to utilize these powerful lasers and light based devices. Newer technology get safer and more effective however the basic principles remain the same. Typically, aestheticians or other technicians operate intense pulses light or IPL devices. Utilization of these machines on darker or ethnic skin such as South American, Asian, or African American skin can results in burns and pigment changes. While complications from these lasers can occur anytime, it is more prudent to have laser hair removal performed by medical professionals who understand the dangers, the differences in skin types, and finally how to treat complications should they arise.

In New Jersey, a class IV laser can only be operated by a physician or a medical professional such as a physicians assistant or nurse practitioner working under the physician. Be wary of franchise based treatment centers employing "laser technicians" or aestheticians to perform these treatments. While the treatments typically cost less, these employees do not understand the differences in skin types or how to treat complications once they arise. Often times they are only trained on one type of device such as an IPL device which may not be appropriate for everyone. You can save up to 50% when going to these types of locations but you are potentially risking injury to yourself.

Number of treatments also factor into the cost of the laser hair removal procedure. Many will try to sell you packages, where you can get cost savings. Typically 4 to 6 treatments are required to get significant reduction in hair growth. However, people with finer or lighter hair may require more treatments and may not see significant reduction after 4 to 6 treatments. Therefore it is important to go to a place where there are many different types of lasers as one may not be suitable for all skin types. Finally, those with very light colored hair, fine hair, or white hair may not see a reduction in hair growth at all. Remember in most laser hair removal centers, you will pay for each treatment you get. Even thought laser hair removal results in permanent reduction of hair growth, it is impossible to remove 100% of the hair forever. At some point you may have regrowth of hair. This hair tends to be finer and lighter in color and may be more difficult to remove. Rarely, an increase in hair growth has been reported after the hair removal procedure. Also those with hormonal conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome may require more treatments or may not experience a reduction unless the condition has been treated.

Finally, prices for laser hair removal can vary based on the area treated. In general, the larger the area the more you can expect to pay for the treatment. Larger areas require more time in terms of preparation and time required to treat the area. Smaller areas such as the lip and chin may only take a few minutes while larger areas can take up to an hour or more. The time necessary for laser hair removal also depends on the laser device used for the treatment. Some laser with fast repetition rates as well as single pass treatments finish faster than those requiring multiple passes or slower repetition rates.

At Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center, only a board certified physician will perform your laser hair removal procedure. Our prices range from $125 per treatment for a small area such as lip or chin to $175/ treatment for underarm, $250/treatment for bikini, $500/treatment for the entire back, to $600/treatment for the entire leg. Also when you purchase a package of 5 treatments, you get a 15% discount as well as a lifetime guarantee. You can also pay per treatment and once you reach 6 treatments, you never have to pay for another treatment for that area again. This affords you several benefits. First is significant cost savings with the lifetime guarantee. Because you never have to pay for more than 6 treatments, you will save a significant amount of money especially if you have finer and lighter hair. Second, our lifetime guarantee ensures that you can come in for touch ups any time you experience hair growth without having to pay for it again. Another benefit is that our physicians can perform the treatments safely without feeling to pressure of having to get clients results within 4 to 6 treatments, even though most of our clients experience at 70 to 90% reduction by their 6th treatment.

Ethos Spa is dedicated to bringing you the latest technology when our physicians perform these laser hair removal procedures. We offer a lifetime guarantee on all of our laser hair removal procedures meaning you get significant cost savings. Our first and foremost goal is to perform these safely while ensuring you get lasting results. Visit Laser Hair NJ for more information on the laser hair removal procedure or call 908-273-5400 to schedule your appointment. Come experience the Ethos difference.

Complications of Laser Hair Removal New Jersey

While laser hair removal remains one of the safest non-invasive ccosmetic procedures, there is possibility of complications following the treatments. Newer lasers and proper training make this occurrence unlikely, however even the most experience laser hair removal provider will experience complications.

The most common complications include pigment changes such as hyperpigmentation (darkening of are of skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of skin). Problems of changes in pigment as a result of laser hair removal tend to be more common in the darker skin types such as Mediterrean, South American, South Asian, Middle Eastern, and African American. Lasers work on the principles of selective photothermolysis meaning they target pigment such as melanin located in hair follicles. Lighter skin types have a relative lack of melanin than darker skin types. The melanin present in skin can also attract laser energy causing pigment changes, burns, and rarely scarring.

Most of the burns I have seen has been inappropraite utilization of the wrong laser or light based device for the specific skin type. Many salons and medical spas utilize laser technician to perform the laser hair removal. Often times, they use IPL or intense pulsed light, on the darker skin types. While IPL can be utilized it has to be performed with caution. A better choice is the YAG laser which has less absorption by the surrounding skin in the darker skin types.

In the event of any complications from the laser hair removal procedure, it is imperative you notify your provider immediately to mitigate any permanent effects. Most cases of pigment changes tend to be temporary and will normalize over several months to up to a year. Hyperpigmentation is easier to treat than hypopigmentation. Hyperpigmentation can be treated by a variety of lightening agents such as hydroquinone, Vitamin C, l-arbutin, azelaic acid, and kojic acid. Sunscreen is also an integral part of any treatment program to normalize pigment abnormalities arising from the laser hair removal procedure.

It is also possible to sustain burns from the laser hair removal. Remember that a laser is a highly focused beam of light. Excessive redness, pain, grayish discoloration, or blister formation are signs of a laser burn. The most important aspect of care is to keep it moist and covered with antibiotic ointment and/or pertrolatum jelly. Daily dressing change and frequent wound checks are the rule rather than an exception. Once the new skin has formed, it is important to avoid excessive sun exposure and utilize sunscreen to prevent exacerbation of the ensuing pigment changes.

At Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center, only a board certified physician specially trained in the application of laser technology will perform the laser hair removal treatments. We also have many different types of lasers and light based devices to treat different skin and hair types. We invite you for a complimentary consultation for the laser hair removal procedure at our spa in Summit, NJ. Call 908-273-5400 to schedule your consultation. You can also visit LaserHairNJ for more information on the laser hair removal procedure.

Laser Hair Removal For Darker Skin Types in New Jersey

With the advent of newer laser technology, almost anyone is a candidate for laser hair removal. Laser hair removal can safely and effectively removed unwanted hair from virtually any part of the body. Laser hair removal works on the principles of selective photothemolysis meaning that it targets the pigment, melanin, in the hair follicle and bulb. The melanin absorbs the light causing the target tissue to heat up leading to its destruction. The greater the discrepancy between the surrounding skin and the hair in terms of color, the less likely complications such as pigment changes in the skin, burns, and rarely permanent scarring.

In darker skin types, there is more melanin than someone who is of the lighter skin types. While all races have roughly equal amounts of melanocytes, cell responsible for the production of melanin, darker skin types produce more melanin.

Therefore it is extremly important that a proper laser is utilized for the darker skin types such as South American, South Asian, Middle Eastern, and African-American. Laser such as the YAG laser are longer wavelength laser that combined with a longer pulse duration make laser hair removal safe and effective for ethnic skin. It is extremly important to go to a provider who has different types of lasers and understands the dangers of utilizing the wrong laser.

At Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center, located in Summit, NJ, our team of board certified physicians are skilled in the application of many different laser technologies on different hair and skin types. While complications can occur with any provider, our experience allows us to minimize any untowards result. We also offer complimentary consultation at our spa with one of our physicians for laser hair removal. Call 908-273-5400 or visit Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center to find out how you can have smoother, sexier skin.

Laser Hair Removal NJ Frequently Asked Questions

Laser Hair Removal NJ- Part I

Laser hair removal is one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatment performed today. It is an effective alternative to waxing, tweexing, plucking, bleaching and electrolysis for removing unwanted hair from virtually any part of the body including face, neck, chest, back, arms, legs, bikini, and underarms. There are several questions you need to have the answer to prior to choosing a provider of these and other cosmetic services. Laser hair removal can be performed with no down time and can give you sexier, smooth hair free skin. It may also be a viable alternative from someone suffering from pseudofolliclutis barbae or razor bumps, tiny red irritated areas arising from inflammation following shaving.

The first question to answer is where to get the procedure done and by whom. Cosmetic procedures are a rapidly growing industry and many providers of these services are not qualified to perform them. It is very important to choose a place where a health care professional will be performing these procedures. Many business utilize technicians who do not necessarily understand laser-tissue interaction, skin type, and potential complications. They tend to follow general settings provided by the manufacturers which may not be appropriate for all skin types.

Ask how many different lasers a place has and what the credentials are of the person performing the procedures. If you are not sure, ask for reference as well as to see before and after pictures of actual clients. Ask how many procedures the person has performed. Just because a doctor performs the procedure does not mean you will not have complication but they will be more likely to be able to treat it should you have any pigment changes or burns. Also a place that different types of lasers is likely able to treat many different skin types and hair types. No one laser is safe or effective for everyone. Also ask if the practice owns the lasers or leases the lasers. This alerts you to the level of commitment to a specific technology.

The next post will explain the different technologies available for laser hair removal. At Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center located in northern NJ, we have all major lasers developed for laser hair removal. Only a board certified physician will perform the laser hair removal procecdure. Also, the consultations are complimentary and our job is to educate are clients about the laser hair removal process. Come experience the Ethos difference. Call 908-273-5400 to make an appointment.

Lifetime Guarantee for Laser Hair Removal NJ

Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center, located in Summit, NJ is dedicated to providing the most advanced non-invasive and minimally invasive cosmetic services. We have designed our medical spa as a tranquil, beautiful location where the latest light based technology is utilized to make you look and feel years younger. Ethos Spa is staffed by board certified physicians and aestheticians dedicated to providing you results in a safe and effective manner.

While we offer many anti-aging and rejuvenating services such as Botox, dermal fillers (Juvederm, Radiesse), skin rejuvenation, photofacials for age spots and broken capillaries, skin tightening for lax skin, skin resurfacing for fine lines and wrinkles, Velashape for cellulite reduction, our most popular service is laser hair removal to eradicate unwanted hair from virtually anywhere on the body. We have all the major lasers currently utilized for hair removal on all skin types and virtually all hair color.

Laser hair removal can remove unwanted hair from the face, neck, back, chest, ears, abdomen, bikini, underarms, arms, and legs. Typically a series of treatment is required to result in 50 to 90% permanent reduction of the hair. Ethos is different than many other places offer such procedures in that only a board certified phsyician trained in the use of these devices will perform these services after a thorough consultation to ensure that you are a good candidate for the services of laser hair removal.

Another differentiating factor is that we have many different lasers for the purpose of laser hair removal. This allows us to choose the best technology based on skin type and hair color rather than have one all purpose laser for everyone. This is especially important for dar skinned and tanned individuals as in appropriate laser selection can results in pigment changes and complications such as burns and scars.

Finally, the most important factor that differentiates laser hair removal at Ethos Spa from other medical spas and offices in New Jersey and New York is our committment to our clients. As a part of all laser hair removal package, we offer a lifetime guarantee. This means that after the initial series our clients never have to pay for any touchs to remove any regrowth of hair.

We invite you to a complimentary consultation to learn more about the laser hair removal process. You will sit down with one of our physicians who will explain everything about the process of laser hair removal to you including the cost, preparation, treatment process, risks, as well as benefits of the procedure.

Come see the Ethos difference and call 908-273-5400 to schedule your complimentary laser hair removal consultations. You can also visit our website Ethos Spa, Skin and Laser Center to see other services we offer as well as directions and scheduling information. We serve clients from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, nothern NJ, Summit, Millburn, Livingston, Morristown, Parsippany, Springfield, Hoboken, Jersey City, New Providence, Bridgewater, Far Hills, Berkeley Heights, Chatham, Florham Park, Union County, Essex County, Morris County, Hudson County and all of New Jersey.