Questions and Answers about IPL
 


What is Intense Pulse Light?

This incredible new therapy is based on emitting high intensity pulses of light to penetrate the skin to perform such treatments as Hair Removal, and Photo rejuvenation.

How does IPL remove hair?

The Intense Light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the Melanin in the hair. This absorption treats the hair, with the heat being transported to the nourishment structure of the hair (follicle). This is heated to 70oC for a millisecond thus destroying the follicle. Hundreds of follicles are destroyed by each flash, and the hairs then fall our in 1-2 weeks.

Can all types of hair be treated?

The darker the hair, (the richer the melanin content), the better the result. White and red hairs cannot be removed using this method.

How does Pulsed Light act in Photo Rejuvenation?

IPL penetrates the skin and is then attracted by one of the chromophores and coloured particles. Light absorption causes the temperature to rise to such a degree that it will stimulate, destroy or scleroses’ the target or adjacent tissue. Blemishes are removed or attenuated, the skin once more having a younger and more toned aspect, with lines and wrinkles being softened or virtually disappearing.

Can all skins be treated with Photo Rejuvenation?

Since all skins contain Melanin, it is important that the skin is not too dark.

Is IPL treatment painful?

The sensation of pain is extremely variable from one individual to another. It depends on the concentration of Melanin in the skin, hair size and hair density. This is why the darker the skin, the greater the sensation. It should be noted that a sensation of prickling may persist for 1-2 weeks after a session.

Are there any secondary effects?

In certain cases there may be redness in the treated area, local oedema or peri-follicular papullae (goose bumps). These effects will disappear several hours after the treatment, however in the majority of cases; there are no visible secondary effects.

How do we know if sufficient treatment has been given?


Hair Removal: In the majority of cases, there is no immediate visible effect. It is possible, immediately after treatment to pull a hair using tweezers. If it can be removed without pulling on the skin, this is proof of a good result. Also if per-follicular papullae or redness appears around the hair follicle, this also indicated the treatment has been successful.

Skin Rejuvenation: In certain cases, results are immediately visible (Telangiectasia). In others, results will only begin to appear after a few hours and will only really become visible after approx. 10 days. Sometimes results are only visible after multiple sessions (3 or 4), but the client can tell that their skin texture and tone have improved.

How many sessions are necessary?


Hair: It is estimated that around 20% of hairs are in their growth phase at any one time. Normally 6 sessions should be recommended, however this may alter. (28 days apart)


Skin: The number of sessions depends on the nature of the lesions and their size. However it is generally accepted that an average of 6 sessions gives a good result.Laser Tattoo Removals Frequently Asked Questions








Questions and Answers about Laser Tattoo Removal



What type of laser do you use?

We use a Sapphire and Ruby Q-switched KTP/ YAG laser, this type of laser delivers the energy quickly and allows for the best results for tattoo removal. Q-switched lasers are the only lasers that should be used for laser tattoo removal.

Q-Switched stands for ‘quality-switched laser’ and this laser targets short pulses of light energy at a tattoo which shatters the pigments into tiny particles.

How does the Laser treatment work on tattoos?


This particular laser produces a very high power in quick pulses. The light energy produced tends to pass through normally pigmented skin and specifically targets the pigment on the tattoo ink deep in the dermis layer. As the ink absorbs this light energy, the ink breaks down into smaller particles which is then evacuated from the body through normal immune response. As the ink particles are removed, the tattoo begins to fade

Is the tattoo removal laser dangerous?

Tattoo removal lasers are very safe for use when used by a trained laser operator with proper safety equipment (goggles to protect the eyes).

The radiation emitted by a tattoo removal laser is non-ionizing and carries no risk of cancer or other abnormal cell growth

Does it hurt?

Lasers will cause some discomfort and it is usual to experience a small amount of pain in the area afterwards (like you do after having a tattoo)The laser pulses have been likened to having your skin 'pinged' with an elastic band. this is usually tolerated by most people without any anaesthetic

However, some areas can prove more sensitive than others, especially around the ankles or the shoulder blade. Fortunately, the discomfort does decrease as treatment progresses and the tattooing fades. In our experience most patients will tolerate the discomfort of treatment very well but we can provide local anaesthetic cream if required

What happens immediately after treatment?


Straight after treatment the area will feel hot and skin will form small white 'blisters', these are water vapour spots created by the intense heat under the skin, and might be flat or slightly raised. This is due to the release of microscopic steam bubbles in your skin. This change usually lasts no more than a few minutes before it disappears, this is perfectly normal and a good sign that the treatment is working.

The white spots start to fade quickly and the remaining ink will start to show through

Will the Laser Treatment leave me with a scar?


Not normally, It is very unusual to develop any scarring but possible, especially with poor aftercare (there is a reported 5% chance of scarring following tattoo removal treatments). The laser operated at our studio is specially designed for Tattoo Removals and Reduction. The light pulses it emits are only in contact with the skin for literally billionths of a second, there is not enough time for a significant build up of heat in the skin.

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