FAQs

• Unlike IPL machines that only treat lighter skin types, the dual wavelengths of the Cynosure Elite can treat all skin types eg.  Caucasian (Fitzpatrick 1 – 3), dark Mediterranean, Asian and Black (Fitzpatrick 4-6)
• Laser is suitable for both men and women.  It provides effective removal of face and body hair and other concerns
• Average number of treatments are between 6 – 9 sessions at monthly intervals

• The most important precaution is avoiding sun exposure.  Several weeks before a laser treatment and for about a month after laser treatment the skin can be sensitised to the sun causing hyper/hypo pigmentation.
• We recommend the use of daily use of sunscreen spf 30, or  spf50 for the face during a course of treatment.

• There is an element of discomfort to having laser treatments, often likened to the ‘pinging’ of an elastic band on the skin.
• Unlike the messy gels used with IPL machines, the Cynosure Elite laser uses the Cryo 6 Smartcool chilled-air machine during and pre and post treatment providing efficient cooling of the skin for increased patient safety and comfort.

• When treating hair removal, a gentle burst of laser light penetrates into the skin to the root of the hair
• The light targets the melanin (brown pigment) in the hair shaft heating up the hair follicle and disabling the hair growth mechanism.
• As the laser only targets hair in the anagen (growing phase) and only a percentage of hair is in anagen phase at any one time, several treatments spread at monthly intervals are required.
• Afterwards the skin will have erythema (redness) and sometimes mild swelling for between 2 and 24 hours– the application of a soothing ointment such as aloe vera gel is usually sufficient to sooth the skin.

Yes hair removal works as long as there is melanin in the hair follicle. It works best on brown or black hair and lighter skin.  Although darker skin tones are treatable using the NdYag1064 wavelength. The absence of growth in any 12month period is classed as ‘permanent hair reduction’ – regrowth is lighter in colour, finer in texture and considerably fewer in number, requiring a single ‘top-up’ treatment in approximately 18months – 2years.

Pre Treatment

• The area should be shaved the day before or several hours before treatment. Area must be free from deodorant, perfume, makeup, foundation or other creams and lotions.

During the Procedure

• Protective eyewear will be worn during the procedure.
• A SmartCool chilled-air cooling device will be used with the laser to minimize epidermal damage and provide patient comfort.  Topical anesthesia is optional.

Post-Treatment Skin Care

• Immediately following treatment, the area may show a slight erythema with some swelling. Blistering may occur.  Pigmented lesions will darken, and eventually crust over 4-6 days.
• For laser hair removal, treated hairs will exfoliate or push out in approximately 2 – 3 weeks.
• During the healing phase do not rub, scratch, or pick area. If a crust develops, let it fall off on its own.
• Aloe Vera gel can be used to keep area moist.
• If swelling occurs, apply ice. Wrap the ice in a soft cloth.
• If makeup is allowed, it must be applied and removed delicately.
• Avoid sports and/or strenuous exercises for 2–3 days following treatment for hair removal and 7–10 days for veins. Walking is encouraged.
• Avoid very hot baths / showers / steam baths or sauna, swimming pools
• Don’t use bleaching creams, or perfumed products for 24-48 hrs / avoid exfoliating or peels for 1 week / try to avoid wearing tight clothing for 2-3 days