If you're fed up of shaving only for stubble to be visible the very next day then it could be time to consider a more permanent form of hair removal. Ellipse hair removal utilises Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology to rid you of unwanted hair longer than your razor ever could. IPL can be used on most areas of the body to rid yourself of unwanted hair and is relatively painless. And, if you add up how much you spend on waxes, creams and razors per year a series of Ellipse hair removal is actually very cost effective. We spoke to the experts at the Knightsbridge Laser Clinic, London to get the complete low down on laser hair removal.
How does Ellipse hair work?
Ellipse uses Intense Pulsed Light to safely and effectively reduce unwanted hair. We would advise the client to have a course of 3 - 6 treatments with 4-8 week intervals in between for the best results. Sun exposure should also be avoided 30 days before and after the treatment. As the treatment progresses, the amount of hair present on the area will become reduced and finer in texture so you will not be as aware of it. A consultation and patch test will be needed prior to the treatment.
What can I expect to happen when going for laser hair removal and how does it work?
The visible light source used in this procedure is attracted to melanin, which is found in the hair. Because there is more melanin found in darker hair the darker the hair is, the more effective the treatment. During the treatment an Optical Coupling gel is applied to the skin to aid the treatment. The applicator is then pressed onto the skin and the light energy is absorbed into the hair causing a heat reaction to destroy the follicle.
Is the treatment painful at all?
The treatment sensation varies from area to area and from client to client. As the light energy is absorbed by melanin, the sensation that is felt depends upon the amount of melanin found in the epidermis and the hairs. Therefore it hurts more in darker skinned/tanned individuals and those with dense black hair. Most clients describe the sensation as quite moderate almost like the snapping of a rubber band, which only lasts for a short moment.
Will I be able to see the results immediately?
No, after the treatment the client leaves looking the same as when they arrived. The heat from the Ellipse system kills the hair but the hairs remain in the follicle and often become attached to the epidermis. These hairs will start to shed/ fall out in about 1-3 weeks after the treatment as the epidermis is renewed. During this period it will seem that the hairs are growing as the epidermis is pushing them out. There are two good indications that the treatment has been successful. After the treatment the hairs are often loose in the follicle and can be pulled out easily with tweezers. Also a red ring is sometimes seen around the hair follicle.
Can laser hair removal be used on all areas of the body?
Yes, it is safe to use on all areas of the body except within the orbital bone (eyes).
What are the advantages to laser hair removal?
• The number of hairs will become reduced in the treatment area.
• Hair will become finer in the treatment area.
• Hair will become less pigmented in the treatment area.
• Due to it being a heat treatment, collagen and elastin is stimulated in the treatment area.
Is there any type of skin that certainly shouldn't consider laser hair removal?
Ellipse is a second generation Intense Pulsed Light system utilising a patented dual mode filtering system which removes all unnecessary and potentially harmful wavelengths. The Ellipse has pre-programmed treatment suggestions for all skin types and dark hair types.
Can laser hair removal go wrong and what precautions should be taken?
• Eye protection glasses should be worn by the technician and the client to protect the eyes.
• Clients should avoid tanning 1 month ahead of and during the entire treatment scenario to avoid increased pain or burns from excessive light absorption in the epidermis.
• Immediately after the treatment the skin is particularly sensitive to UV light. A sunscreen of at least 30+ must be used for 30days after the treatment to prevent pigmentation.
Is there any after care and if so do I have to spend a fortune on specific products?
Avoid any sun exposure and sun beds for 30 days after the treatment. It is also advised to avoid all perfumed products and heat treatments for 24-48 hours. Clients with sensitive skin may benefit from an application of 100% aloe vera gel. A sunscreen of at least SPF 30 must be used for 30 days following the treatment.
For further information or to book an appointment with the Knightsbridge Laser Clinic go to knightsbridgelaserclinic.co.uk or call 0207 052 9797.
