Welcome to First Alternative Chiropractic
Permanent Hair Removal

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology offers a gentle, non-invasive, long-lasting solution to unwanted hair on the face, back, legs, bikini line or any other body area.  Based on technology used for nearly a decade in the treatment of port-wine stains and other birthmarks, IPL photoepilation has been performed safely for many years, effectively eliminating dozens of hairs with each pulse. Before And After Pictures.

  

We use the FDA approved SpectraClear™ pulsed light system which utilizes xenon lamp technology in order to safely remove hair.  Pulsed light systems work by emitting pulses of intense lamplight into the hair follicles.  The light is absorbed by the pigment, melanin, in the follicles and converted to heat.  LHE, light, heat, and energy are used together in order to slowly destroy the hair bulb. Most hair removed with the pulsed light system will not grow back after a few treatment.  Hair that does grow back is usually thinner and lighter in color.

                                                                                        

Pulsed light systems deliver light over a much broader spectrum wavelength band than lasers.  For example, SpectraClear™, delivers light emitted from a range between 400 and 1200nm whereas lasers only target narrow bands such as only 800 to 1200nm.   Thus the Intense Pulsed Light, I.P.L. is more effective than laser because it targets a wider band of wavelengths.  This translates into a treatment that is more effective for you due to varying depths of each hair follicle in different parts of the body.  Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a hair removal procedure that is safe and effective for most skin types. Only extremely dark pigmented skin is not recommended for treatment.  

How does IPL remove hair?

Highly controlled flashes of light are selectively absorbed by hair-filled follicles lying below the surface of the skin.  The absorbed light heats the hair, which damages or destroys the re- growth potential of the follicle.  The result is successful hair removal without damaging the surrounding tissue. 

What happens during a hair removal treatment?

It begins by trimming away the hair above the skin.  You will be asked to wear dark glasses to protect your eyes from the bright light.  The IPL hand piece is then applied to your skin and pulses of light begin disabling your unwanted hair. 

What does the treatment feel like?

Each pulse of light feels like a slight sting or pinch, similar to the snap of a rubber band.  No local anesthesia is required and most people tolerate the treatment well.  However, a topical analgesic may be used to make you feel more comfortable if you feel it is necessary.

Can all hair be treated?

IPL’s unique design offers you customized laser hair removal treatment according to your hair color, texture and body location.  Any hair with at least some pigment in it (black, brown, red and even blond) can be treated effectively. For more information click here.

Is IPL safe for all skin types?

IPL is the first photoepilation procedure proven to effectively treat unwanted hair on all skin types, including dark-skinned individuals such as those of Black, Hispanic and Asian descent.  Only extremely dark pigmented individuals are recommended not to have the treatment. 

Are there any possible side effects?

Side effects are rare.  You may experience some slight reddening or local swelling at the site of hair removal, but this typically goes away within hours.  On rare occasions, some blistering or bruising may occur, but typically resolves quickly.  Also, the skin can become darker, hyper-pigmentation, or lighter, hypo-pigmentation, following treatment, but will generally return to normal within a few months.  Limiting sun exposure before and after each treatment will minimize the risk of complications.  Following the treatment, you can generally return to work and resume all regular activities immediately.

How many treatments will I need?

IPL technology has been proven to create a permanent reduction in the number of regrowing hairs following each treatment in most skin types.  The number of treatments required depends on several factors related to your specific kind of hair and skin.  A customized laser hair removal treatment program will be designed for you along with an estimate of how many treatments you may need in order to meet your expectations.  Several factors influence how many treatments you may need. Some of these factors include genetics, hormones, age, sun exposure, location of hair on the body, ethnicity,weight,diet, metabolism and medication.  The density of your hair's growth cycle can also play a part in how many treatments will be needed. I.P.L. slows the growing capacity of follicles in the growth cycle at the time of the treatment.  Since some hair follicles may enter their growth cycle after your treatment, more treatments may be required to deliver optimal results.

 

First Alternative Chiropractic©

July 31, 2005