Laser
Hair Removal — Cosmetic Laser Procedures in Alabama
Laser hair removal is an exciting new technology that finally provides a single-procedure answer to hair
removal hassles. Our CoolGlide® system's longer wavelength allows it to be used safely and effectively
on patients with light or dark skin as well as tanned skin. The cooled handpiece increases patient comfort
and minimizes adverse skin reaction.
What areas can be treated with CoolGlide systems?
The CoolGlide Laser System can remove hair from all parts of the body including the face, legs, arms, underarms
and back. It can also treat sensitive areas like the chest, nipples and bikini line.
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What do CoolGlide laser treatments feel like?
As the name implies, the CoolGlide handpiece cools and soothes as it glides along your skin. When the pulse
of light is delivered, some patients experience a mild pinching or stinging sensation. No local anesthesia
or pain medication is typically required; however, some patients may prefer to use a topical anesthetic when
sensitive areas are treated.
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How many treatments will I need?
Most areas require three to six treatments, but the number of CoolGlide treatments required for optimal
long-term benefits depends on various factors such as your hair's thickness, the area treated and your hair's
growth cycle. Interestingly, not all hairs are actively growing at the same time and actually go through
three distinct phases: growth, regression and resting. CoolGlide systems work by disabling the hair that
is principally in the active growth phase at the time of treatment. Since other hairs will enter this active
growth phase at different times, additional treatments may be necessary to disable all of the hair follicles
in a given area.
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What happens after the treatment?
Immediately following your CoolGlide treatment, the area may appear a bit red and swollen. Three to seven
days after treatment you may experience what seems to be regrowth of hair. Actually, most of these hairs
are being shed as a result of your treatment and are not regrowing. Between treatments you should not wax
or pluck your hair, but it is permissible to shave.
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Are there any restrictions on my activity after treatment?
Following the treatment, you can return to your normal activities right away. However, since some redness
may occur, you may want to plan your work or social engagements accordingly. The use of sunscreen is recommended
on any treated areas exposed to the sun. As always, it is a good idea to limit your sun exposure. In addition,
we may recommend that you use a specially formulated skin care product line or prescribe a skin care regimen
especially formulated for your skin type.
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What are the possible side effects?
Although patients experience few side effects, the most commonly noticed are slight reddening and local
swelling of the skin, similar to a sunburn. These effects typically last for several hours or less. In rare
instances, blistering may occur. Schedule a consultation at Hedden Plastic
Surgery in Birmingham, Alabama today for complete information on the benefits and risks of treatment.
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How do CoolGlide lasers compare with other hair removal methods?
Shaving, waxing and depilatory creams are all temporary methods which must be repeated on a frequent basis.
CoolGlide lasers offer permanent hair reduction for lasting results.
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How do CoolGlide lasers compare with electrolysis?
Electrolysis is a tedious, invasive and painful process that involves inserting a needle into each individual
hair follicle and delivering an electrical charge to them one at a time. Electrolysis often requires years
of treatments at regular intervals. By delivering light energy to hundreds of hair follicles at a time, CoolGlide
lasers effectively treat an area in just seconds that would take over an hour with electrolysis.
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To find out more about laser hair removal, contact Hedden
Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, Alabama today.
