Hair Removal
Using the same technology as AFT skin rejuvenation, short pulses of controlled light are administered to the skin, where they penetrate the surface and are absorbed by the hair follicles. The heat damages or destroys the potential for regrowth.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the advantages of AFT™ hair removal? AFT™ hair removal is a fast, safe, FDA-approved treatment for permanent hair reduction. Large areas can be treated very quickly, while smaller areas such as the upper lip, chin, and beard can be treated in moments. The treatment is effective for hair of any color and all skin types.

• Who should not have the treatment? How will I know if the treatment is right for me? Patients with a history of skin cancer, photosensitivity, epilepsy, bleeding or hormonal disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, or keloid scarring, or who are pregnant or nursing, should not have AFT™ treatment. You should also not have AFT™ treatment if you have taken Accutane in the past 12 months, are using anticoagulants or photosensitive medications, or have an active infection of Herpes Simplex in the area to be treated.

• Will one treatment solve my problem? How quickly does the treatment take effect? The number of treatments needed depends on the area being treated. Hair grows in cycles, and the treatment will only affect hair in the active growing phase of its cycle. Several treatments are required to reach all hairs during their active phases. The number of treatments required will also depend on your skin color and the texture of the hair being removed.

• How do I prepare for the treatment? You should avoid sun exposure or artificial tanning in the treatment area for three to four weeks before the procedure. Patients with a history of herpes simplex in the treatment area will be given a preventative dose of medication prior to treatment. Electrolysis and/or waxing of the treatment area should be avoided for six weeks before the treatment.

• Does the treatment hurt? When light is administered, most patients experience a small amount of discomfort. Some people describe the sensation as stinging, while others say it feels like a rubber band snapped against the skin. You may take ibuprofen (Advil) 20 minutes before the treatment to help minimize the discomfort. A burning sensation may last for up to an hour. To help relieve the feeling, a cooling topical cream will be applied to the area after treatment.

• Are there side effects to the treatment? AFT™ treatment can cause redness and swelling in the treated area within 2 to 24 hours. Irritation, itching, and a minor burning sensation or pain similar to sunburn may occur within 48 hours. In some instances, crusting or blisters may form, which should resolve in 5 to 10 days.