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Center for Skin Aesthetics | Site Map & Contact Info |
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Center for Skin Aesthetics | Site Map & Contact Info |
How does EpiLight™ work?
EpiLight™ uses non-laser intense pulsed light
and has been FDA approved for long term hair reduction.
Hair follicles that are in the active growth phase are destroyed.
Is the treatment painful?
Some patients report discomfort during treatment that feels like a rubber band snap. The discomfort may range from mild to moderate and does not last long. Patients who have had this treatment say it is much less uncomfortable than waxing or electrolysis. A burning sensation may last for up to one hour. A cold compress or Aloe Vera lotion may be used if needed.
Is the hair removal permanent?
EpiLight™ is considered to result in permanent hair reduction.
On average a single treatment with EpiLight™ will
reduce hair counts by 60% after a 12 week period (generally higher
than laser hair removal); there has been up to 90% reduction
after about 5 treatments and the hair loss to date has been maintained
for up to 2 years (Medical Letter vol. 41, #1058, 1999).
Is there any skin type that cannot have this procedure done?
In general, the best results are with lighter skin and darker hair. The process works less well for gray, white or red hair. This process also does not work well in very dark skin which is close in color to the color of the hair being treated; in fact, even though these skin types generally don't burn with the sun they are more likely to burn with EpiLight™ and therefore treatment is not advised.
What if I have white or gray hair or only a few problem hairs?
If your hair is white or entirely gray or if there is only
a very tiny area to be done you may have better results with another
method such as electrolysis. Also, any areas that require very
fine shaping such as the arch of the eyebrow may be better
treated with electrolysis.
How many treatments will I need?
The treatment targets actively growing hairs. The amount of
hair reduction after any treatment is higher in areas where there
is more hair in the active hair growth (i.e., facial area). Likewise,
the amount of hair reduction after any one treatment is somewhat
lower in areas where there is less active hair growth (i.e., back,
pubic area, and legs). Initially, best results are achieved with
three treatments spaced at four-week intervals. In areas such
as the legs or bikini, 5 or more treatments may be needed. Areas
that have been previously waxed or plucked may also require 5
treatments. Individual results may vary.
Are there any side effects of the treatment and can they be
avoided?
There is potential for a mild burn to the skin (especially
in persons with very dark skin or those who have been "tanning").
There is also potential for increased or decreased pigment in
the skin. To minimize any possible problems, it is very important
to avoid sun tanning during the treatment period for EpiLight™
and use sunscreen. In general, tanning should be avoided
for one month prior to EpiLight™ treatment (and in general
to maintain healthy skin!). Self-tanning creams should also be
avoided. Sun exposure increases the concentration of pigment in
the skin and greatly increases the risk for burning or pigment
changes with EpiLight treatment.
Your treatments will be less effective if you are using any
hair removal process that can damage the hair follicle; this means
waxing, plucking, electrolysis and the use of depilatories. These
methods should be avoided for several weeks prior to treatment.
It is fine to shave between treatments but there should be a short
"stubble" at the time of treatment.
What do I do if I want to proceed with EpiLight™?
Please call our office to set up a consultation. One of our physicians will review your medical history to make sure there is no contraindication to treatment and then a "patch test" will be done to see how your skin reacts. Your first treatment may then be set up in the next 2-7 days, or may be done at the time of the patch test depending on your skin type and the area to be treated.
What skin conditions does it treat?
Photorejuvenation treats "red and brown" lesions of the skin: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, rosacea and spider veins. It also diminishes fine lines and wrinkles and helps shrink large pores. The skin improves with a more even color tone, smaller pore size, smoother texture and a more youthful appearance.
How does it work?
Photorejuvenation uses "intense pulsed light" (IPL) which is a non-laser therapy that stimulates remodeling under the surface of the skin and increases collagen deposition by stimulating fibroblasts.
What can I expect during the treatment? Is it painful? Do I need to prepare in any way?
During the treatment a cold gel is placed on the skin and the area is treated with a bright light, similar to a camera flash, that is transmitted through a smooth glass crystal. You will wear protective goggles. There is generally no discomfort .
You should have no oil on your skin the day of treatment. If you are wearing lotion or make-up we will ask that you wash your face prior to treatment.
If your skin is very dry and we are treating a condition of increased pigment, it is best to use an exfoliator and a good moisturizer for 2 weeks prior to the session.
It is very important to apply sunscreen to the face daily
and especially during the course of treatment. Most of the lesions
being treated are related to ongoing sun damage to the skin.
Are there any side effects?
This is considered a "no down-time" procedure. There may be some slight redness or swelling in the area treated that resolves quickly. In rare instances there can be bruising or blistering.
If you have a history of cold sores or fever blisters, you may benefit from taking medication the day before treatment to prevent an outbreak; very bright light can sometimes cause an outbreak in susceptible persons.
Are the results long lasting?
Yes, the results appear to be long lasting but are not permanent as the skin continues to age.
How many treatments will I need and how much does it cost?
Most conditions will benefit from 4 treatments, spaced at 3 to 4 week intervals; some pigmented lesions may need less. The treatment session for the face is about 30 minutes. The price is $300 per treatment session. The front of the neck or the anterior chest ("V" area) can also be treated; the cost is $200 for each area.
Besides the photorejuvenation we can also treat individual lesions on the body such as "sun spots" and cherry angiomata. The cost is $100 for every 10 lesions, ie, $100 for 1-10, $200 for 11-20, etc. We do not recommend "spot treatments" for the face as it may result in uneven skin tones.
Will my health insurance cover the treatment?
This treatment is considered cosmetic and therefore not covered by health insurance.
How do I get more information?
Please call our office at (703) 453-8068 to arrange a free consultation, and please visit the Center for Skin Aesthetics web site.
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Center for Skin Aesthetics | Site Map & Contact Info |