Originally laser hair reduction was only available to those with fair skin and dark hair, regular lasers such as the Arion ran the risk of burning darker skin due to its differing wavelength, attracted to melanin in the skin! Thankfully the Fotona laser enables us to treat those with darker fitzpatric skin types, so everyone can ditch the razor.
What is it?
Fotona Hair removal is used to treat hairs on someone who has a higher fitzpatric / darker skin colour.
How does it work?
Fotona hair removal works exactly the same as normal Arion hair removal – the biggest different is the type of wavelength used. The fotona uses a ND YAG wavelength that is much safer for darker skin types. Laser is always focused on a main target (being melanin in the hair) which the laser light is attracted to. The light travels through the laser, when it reaches the hair follicle and causes heat. The heat then limits the blood supply to the hair follicle therefore weakening the follicle. The weakening of the follicle causes the hairs to fall out anywhere from 5-12 days after the treatment. This weakening process limits the follicle’s ability to reproduce strong hairs resulting in permanent hair reduction.
What happens at the procedure?
You will be given protective eyewear and your skin will be prepped. One of our highly trained Clinicians will use the laser to go over all areas being treated to ensure a through treatment. After procedure, we may apply a light, absorbable post-treatment serum and you can go back to your day.
Why you need to go to a reputable clinic?
It is vital you receive treatment from a reputable clinic. There have been many cases where patients have been burnt by lasers when in the hands of an inexperienced and poorly trained beautician. There are many factors to consider when treating a patient such as specific laser settings appropriate to differing skin types.
How long does it take?
It depends on the size of the area being treated. Underarms may be about 10 minutes and legs are about 30 minutes.
What are the results and how long does it take for results to show?
Results start to show after the first treatment, but hair reduction for both darker and lighter skin types normally requires several sessions, normally 6-12 sessions depending on the area on the body.
How long do the results last for?
The result is permanent hair reduction, however there is a chance that new hairs can sprout on our body due to hormone fluctuations, so maintenance is required.
What are the comparative advantages of this treatment as opposed to other options out there?
The Fotona laser treatment is advantageous for those who have a darker skin type, thanks to the variation of advanced settings, this laser is able to weaken the hair follicles without any risk of burning or pigmenting the surrounding skin.
Is there any pre or post care needed?
Sun exposure is to be avoided for 4 weeks before and after the treatment.
Picking/scratching of the skin surface is to be avoided.
No waxing or plucking of the hair follicles.
Preparation is sometimes required (using a pigment inhibiting serum) 2 weeks before the treatment session.
Using a gentle scrub a few days post treatment can assist the follicle to release the hair.
Is there any side effects or downtime?
Occasionally mild erythema (redness) post treatment may occur, which usually resolves a few hours after treatment.
What areas can be treated?
Any area of the body can be treated, apart from the ears and the eye area.
Who can be treated? And who is not suitable for the treatment?
This treatment is suitable for darker skin types that cannot use Alexandrite laser wavelengths.
