Frequently Asked Questions
What is laser therapy and how does it work?
Laser therapy is a
safe, effective, and commonly used treatment, providing optimal
results in areas such as the removal of unwanted hair skin
rejuvenation, wrinkle reduction, leg veins, or tattoos; and the
treatment of acne.
Lasers work by delivering an intense beam of light that is absorbed
by the skin. This light is converted to heat and is absorbed by the
cells being targeted, while leaving the surrounding tissue
unaffected. Candela lasers feature a patented skin-cooling device
for even greater patient comfort and safety – and better results.
Does it hurt?
No anesthetics are
required, but they may be used. The feeling most patients report is
a warming or tingling sensation during treatment. The skin being
treated is additionally protected by Candela’s dynamic cooling
method, DCD, which delivers a cooling mist on to the skin before the
laser pulse is emitted. This cooling mist increases comfort during
treatment, as well as protects the skin to minimize side effects
like redness.
What is light-based therapy (intense pulsed light) and
how does it work?
Intense Pulsed Light
(IPL) therapy is an effective way to rejuvenate the skin, giving it
a more youthful appearance. Light-based treatments use a
less-intense, broader spectrum of light than lasers, but are
effective in treating rejuvenation of the skin. Candela’s Ellipse I2PL
is the only light-based product that is built specifically to
dual-filter light as it is absorbed, thereby generating more
consistent results.
Are laser and light-based treatments safe?
Yes, laser and
light-based treatments have been used for many years for a variety
of medical and cosmetic procedures. Candela, the most trusted name
in the industry, has pioneered the development of some of the safest
and most effective technologies and products available on the market
today.
What will my treatment be like?
You and your
practitioner will wear safety glasses to protect your eyes during
the procedure. The doctor will use a small handpiece that touches
your skin to deliver the light. You may feel a light spray of
coolant on your skin before each laser pulse.
How long will my treatment take, and how many
treatments will I need?
Every treatment, like
every patient, is unique. Consult your practitioner to decide what
is best for you based on your needs and expectations.
What precautions should I take before or after my
treatment?
In general, avoid sun
exposure for 4-6 weeks before treatment, and again after treatment
until your physician allows it. Care should be taken in the first
few days following treatments to avoid scrubbing or rinsing the
treated area with abrasive skin cleansers. Consult your practitioner
for specific precautions that relate to your individualized
treatment plan.
Are there any adverse side-effects to laser or
light-based treatments?
In general, most
procedures have a low risk of adverse side effects. Some patients
experience pigment changes in the skin color. If this occurs, the
skin will typically return to normal pigmentation over time. All
treatment results are individual.
Is my laser or light-based treatment covered by my
medical insurance?
Most insurance
companies do not offer reimbursement for cosmetic procedures.
However, consult your practitioner for more information.
