UTMB Cosmetic Surgery - Hair Reduction

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Frequently Asked Questions

Hair Reduction

Are you experiencing unwanted hair and wish it could be more permanently removed? Tired of shaving, waxing or using chemical treatments to remove hair, only to have it grow right back? If so, you’re not alone. Most of us wish to be permanently rid of hair on some portion of our body. Until recently, our options were limited and less than permanent. Lasers and Intense Pulsed-Light Systems (IPL’s) are the new treatments of choice for removing that unwanted hair.

With the new Estelux Pulsed-Light System, we can now quickly and conveniently rid you of unwanted hair on most body parts.

For your convenience, we’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions, and the respective answers.

Q: What is Pulsed-Light System hair reduction?
Q: What’s the difference between laser and pulsed-light treatments?
Q: Who performs the procedure?
Q: How many treatments are required?
Q: On what color hair does the system work?
Q: What are sessions like?
Q: What should I expect after treatment?
Q: Can the treated area be exposed to the sun after the procedure is completed?
Q: How long does the procedure take?
Q: What are the pre-procedure instructions?
Q: Where can I learn more information?

Q: What is Pulsed-Light System hair reduction?
A: We use a Palomar Estelux Pulsed-Light System to reduce body hair growth. It works by directing an intense pulse of light to the hair follicle. This damages the follicle, preventing future hair growth. (Note: this does not stop the growth of new hair from other follicles.).

Q: What’s the difference between laser and pulsed-light treatments?
A: While both work in basically the same manner to remove hair, the Estelux Pulsed-Light System uses a newer technology that allows it to remove hair up to 10 times faster than lasers.

Q: Who performs the procedure?
A: A physician or technician performs the treatments.

Q: How many treatments are required?
A: Some patients will benefit from only 2 to 3 treatment sessions. Usually 5 to 6 treatments are sufficient to achieve permanency.

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Q: On what color hair does the system work?
A: The system works on a wide range of hair colors and types.

Q: What are sessions like?
A: Treatment sessions are quick and easy. The technician or physician will use a wand-like hand piece on your skin to deliver the light pulse. Patients typically describe the process as being similar to a gentle snapping sensation.

Q: What should I expect after treatment?
A: Mild redness and tenderness are the most common side effects. Both resolve very shortly after treatment and shouldn’t interfere with normal daily activities. In some instances, the redness may last longer, but will be mild and temporary.

Q: Can the treated area be exposed to the sun after the procedure is completed?
A: The treated area should not be exposed to the sun for 2 to 3 days after the procedure, and for olive or darker complexions, sun block should be used.

Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: The Extelux system is fast, making it convenient for even the busiest of schedules. Total procedure time is dependent on the size of the area treated. Some areas can be treated in just a few minutes. Larger areas may take 30 minutes or slightly longer.

Q: What are the pre-procedure instructions?
A: The area should not be waxed, bleached or tweezed for at least one month prior to the treatment, or shaved for at least one day prior to the treatment. Hair must be visible on the day of treatment.

Q: Where can I learn more information?
A: Additional information is available by contacting one of our technicians at (409) 772-7364 between 8:00-9:00 Mon-Thursday, or 3:30-4:30 Mon/Wed/Fri.

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