Laser Hair Removal – FAQ

What is Laser Hair Removal?

The ProWave hair removal system delivers a specially tailored light source for permanent hair reduction. Cutera’s newest hair removal innovation provides treatment for a wide range of skin types. An additional patient benefit is the ability of the handpiece to treat large areas such as women’s legs and men’s backs – quickly and safely

What areas can be treated with ProWave?

ProWave can remove hair from all parts of the body including the face, legs, arms, underarms, and back. It can also treat sensitive areas like the chest, nipples, and bikini line

What do ProWave treatments feel like?

When the pulse of light is delivered, some patients experience a mild pinching or stinging sensation. No local anesthesia or pain medication is typically required; however, some patients may prefer to use a topical anesthetic when sensitive areas are treated.

How many ProWave treatments will I need?

Most areas require 6-8 treatments. However, the number of treatments required for optimal long-term benefits depends on multiple factors – hair thickness, the area treated and your hair’s growth cycle. Each hair grows at a different rate and goes through three distinct phases: growth, regression, and resting. ProWave
treatments work by disabling the hair that is principally in the active growth phase at the time of treatment. Since other hairs will enter this active growth phase at different times, additional treatments may be necessary to disable all of the hair follicles in a given area.

What happens after the treatment?

Immediately following your ProWave treatment, the area may appear a bit red and swollen. Three to seven days after treatment you may experience what seems to be regrowth of hair. Actually, most of these hairs are being shed as a result of your treatment and are not regrowing. Between treatments you should not wax or pluck your hair, but it is permissible to shave

Are there any restrictions on my activity after treatment?

Following the treatment, you can return to your normal activities right away, but some redness may occur. The use of sunscreen is recommended on any treated areas exposed to the sun. In addition, your service provider may recommend that you use a specially formulated skin care product line or prescribe a skin care regimen especially formulated for your skin type.

What are the possible side effects?

Although patients experience few side effects, those most commonly noticed are slight reddening and local swelling of the skin, similar to a sunburn. These effects typically last for several hours or less. In rare instances, blistering may occur. Consult with your medical professional for complete information on the benefits and risks of treatment.

Why is ProWave a good choice over other hair removal systems?

Using the latest technology in hair removal, ProWave can rapidly treat large areas safely and effectively on patients with a wide range of skin types. The cooled handpiece increases patient comfort and minimizes the adverse skin reaction commonly seen with other light sources.