Laser Concepts of Louisiana 504.888.8484
Frequently Asked Questions about
Laser Cosmetics
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 and facial veins, and 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, with better 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 is the must 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 provider will wear safety glasses to protect your eyes during the procedure. The provider will use a small hand piece that touches your skin to deliver the light. You may feel a light spray of coolant on your skin before and after 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 provider 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 2-4 weeks before treatment, and again after treatment until your provider 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 provider 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 treatment covered by my medical insurance?
Most insurance companies do not offer reimbursement for cosmetic procedures. However, consult your practitioner for more information.
How old do you have to be?
We generally treat patients that are 18 years or older. A parent or legal guardian will have to accompany any client that is a minor.
How much will it cost? How does Xenon Pulsed Light (XPL) work?
Each person needs are different. We offer a free consultation. All cost will be explained at that time. Laser hair removal is more cost efficient than electrolysis or continual waxing.
Affirm Laser
Do you need to use anesthesia with the Affirm?
No. Cynosure’s SmartCool air cooling system attaches to the Affirm 1440nm as well as to the XPL. The air cooling increases patient comfort and avoids the necessity of using any topical anesthesia.
How many passes are needed for a full facial treatment?
Cynosure’s Affirm system typically requires 1-2 passes to ensure overlap, in addition to enhancing outcomes for the patient and the doctor.
Is Affirm the same as Fractional systems?
The Affirm system from Cynosure has numerous characteristics that differentiate it from a fractional system.
Facial skin treatment works by directing a beam of light in the visible and near infrared range, from 515 nm up to about 1200 nm, to an irregularity in the skin, such as enlarged blood vessels or irregular chromophore. This removes the abnormality without scarring or damage, while stimulating collagen production to tighten the surrounding tissue, resulting in improved skin texture and reduced signs of aging.
What is CAP Technology?
CAP stands for Combined Apex Pulse technology. The CAP diffractive lens array provides a unique delivery and distribution of energy to the treatment area.
How does CAP work?
The CAP array is a proprietary lens construction that consists of approximately 1,000 diffractive elements per centimeter square to affect more surface area per single pulse. CAP technology delivers “apex” pulses of high fluence regions for collagen remodeling, surrounded by a low fluence collagen stimulating treatment zone. This combined action improves treatment efficacy, while minimizing the side effects experienced with existing methods. In histology, only the high fluence apex regions are visible. Histologically, the CAP apex pulse energy distribution is limited to approximately 300 microns in depth, constraining treatment to the zone of superficial photo-damage (i.e. the targeted area).
CAP vs. Other Technologies?
Other technologies only provide high fluence treatment columns of thermal coagulation. Affirm’s CAP technology provides a combination of high-level fluence surrounded by low-level fluence. High-level fluence enhances collagen remodeling while low-level fluence is stimulating collagen production.
