Laser hair removal at spa vs dermatologist - is there a difference in their technology?

Question

Ive gone to various laser hair removal spa type places around the city over the years and have tried getting hair removal on my my neck and upper cheeks area but never saw any difference at all even after 3-6 treatments and would then give up. I know you often have to go for 6-12 but I would expect to see some descent progress after 3-6 sessions. Is there a different in the technology used in derm office vs these med spas that generally are much cheaper? I have a mix of light and dark brown hair

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

you need to find an expert AND the best technology, do not suffer for less than both.  I suggest you search for those and use the ISDIN body lotion, reve skin acne purifying enhancer, and vivatia system after treatment daily (see link keratosis bundle which is great for laser hair removal clients).  Best, Dr. Emer.

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

The difference between practices can be quite significant in the level of training, education, and the quality of equipment.  Sometimes there are places that buy a machine, do not even complete the training or do a quick train and then just start treating.  It is important to go to a laser facility that has proof of adequate training, has knowledge of the different skin types and which require a shorter alex beam for types 1-4 and a longer yag beam for skin types 5 and 6.  The portion of hair that should be targed is the hair in the active growth phase that has the largest root bulb.  This only happens every four weeks for anything above the waist and every 8 weeks for anything below the waist.  You should see results after even one treatment if done correctly and you skin type was assessed correctly and the proper beam is used.  Do not let a cost difference confuse you as to the quality of the service.  they are not synonymous.  I am a physician practicing laser hair removal and my costs are significantly less than surrounding providers but my results are effective and safe.

Jayanthy Ravindran, MS, DNB, MRCS · Answer

While the two of them offer comparative medicines with regards to restorative cosmetic services, a dermatology clinic is quite often the better choice. Let me tell you why. 
Since you have a certified dermatologist supervising medicines, the way to deal with taking care of your concern is comprehensive, and is bound to bring about long lasting, great outcomes.

Also, when you see a dermatologist, in any event, for a minor skin concern like skin break out scarring, they might have the option to analyse fundamental conditions bringing about skin break out scarring, just as prescribing treatment choices to help in the long haul.

In conclusion, safety is a worry. While cosmetic dermatology is generally viewed as protective, there are still some risks involved. This can incorporate impermanent or extremely durable nerve injury, staining of skin, unnatural or disfigured looking outcomes, but totally curable under the supervision of a certified Doctor Who knows what they are doing and what you will be needing. Dermatologists are prepared to stay away from these slip-ups, and furthermore prepared on the most proficient method to react rapidly and adequately in the rare case that something might turn out badly.

Travis James, DO · Answer

In general the technology available isn’t necessarily dependent upon whether it is a med spa vs a dermatologist as laser hair removal is generally not as restricted as other devices. As a dermatologist our training and board exams include information that demonstrate an understanding of the different laser technologies and the science behind them. I think the big difference, speaking generally, is that there is likely to be more customization and increasing intensity of treatment when you seek treatment at a dermatologist office as there may be a better understanding of the technology more than the technology itself being better. You can have the best laser in the world but if you don’t understand it you are unlikely to get great results as well as it becomes much more dangerous with increased frequency of bad outcomes. The other aspect that needs to be kept in mind when considering the difference is that dermatologist are specialists of the hair, skin and nails so it could be assessing the hair to ensure it is the type that would respond well to laser hair removal because really fine vellus type hairs typically don’t respond very well. Hope this was helpful. Dr. James

Laser hair removal at spa vs dermatologist - is there a difference in their technology?

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