Author: Avataar Skincare

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Can Laser Hair Reduction cause Cancer?

Laser hair reduction is a new trend nowadays. It has become a really popular solution to get rid of unwanted hair. It is a long-term solution to get rid of unwanted hair. But to understand why people fear that laser can cause cancer you need to understand the mechanism behind laser hair reduction.

What happens in laser hair reduction is that we use a laser beam to target the hair follicles which are basically hair roots. The first step is to shave the target area. Shaving helps expose the hair roots and then the laser machine is used to target the hair follicles. What laser beam actually does is target the melanin present in the hair follicle which arrests hair growth. Therefore, with each progressive session, the hair growth is delayed and eventually it stops growing.  

Now a lot of people fear that this concentrated beam of light might cause cancer. First of all laser treatment does not use light which contains ultraviolet rays which is what triggers skin cancer. The laser light does not penetrate deep into the skin it only works superficially. You need multiple sessions because hair follicles on the skin are in different stages of growth. Therefore, it requires multiple sessions to get rid of hair completely. 

Now let us talk about lasers, they are radiation and they are of a safe kind. The lasers used for hair reduction consist of non-ionizing radiation which produces a laser beam created to target the hair follicle and nothing else. But laser treatments are not limited to just laser hair reduction other treatments include tattoo removal, skin rejuvenation, skin resurfacing, Lasik surgery, etc all these treatments use non-ionizing lasers. In fact, it is also used in the treatment of cancer itself.

The radiation that is capable of causing cancer is called ionizing radiation and they are generally present in X-rays and gamma rays. These may be carcinogenic in nature and can cause cancer because they have high-frequency ionizing radiation. Yet we use X-rays to capture images of our bones. What actually happens when ionizing radiation enters the body, is that it reaches at the cellular level where it can alter the DNA and may cause the cell to lose contact inhibition which can trigger the cell to mutate and become cancerous. But lasers used for laser hair reduction do not have this ability. 

The US FDA states that these lasers do not have the ability to trigger cells in our body to become cancerous. Moreover, there is not enough research done to back the claim that the long-term effects of laser can cause cancer or increase the risk of cancer. In addition to laser hair removal, laser therapy is used for other cosmetic purposes like tattoo removal, dental procedures, varicose veins, prostate and eye surgery, removal of kidney stones, etc. In fact, it is also used for treating cancer.         

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Everything you need to know about Laser Toning

Pigmentation has become a very common problem these days. There are several reasons for pigmentation to occur; it can be due to photodamage, acne, melasma, injuries, etc. Everybody wants beautiful and clean skin. Other skin imperfections like texture, free radical damage, pollution damage, hormone changes, and even genetics. When the skin becomes dehydrated and dry, when it has enlarged pores it’s usually because of inadequate care.

This is where laser toning comes in. Laser toning is an effective treatment that helps in treating problems like hyperpigmentation, melasma, acne marks, dark spots, sun spots, fine lines, freckles, uneven skin tone, etc. Laser toning provides prominent results in treating such problems. It makes the skin bright, plump, and even-toned. Laser toning requires several sessions to see results.

Laser toning requires the use of a Q-switched laser which is used for all pigment-related problems. The laser present in a Q-switched targets a pigment called “melanin” present in the skin. It reduces the intensity of melanin thereby lightening the skin and giving the skin an even skin tone. It breaks down the pigment in the skin at the sub-dermal level which is effective in treating hyperpigmentation and melasma.  A Q-switched laser uses a low fluence laser beam on the targeted area of the skin which can treat hyperpigmentation and signs of aging. The laser is used at a specific wavelength which then breaks down melanin in the hyperpigmented area which then evens the skin tone. This also stimulates the production of collagen which improves the texture of the skin.

Benefits of laser toning:

  • It works on all skin types
  • Not at all time consuming
  • Promotes skin regeneration
  • Reduces wrinkles
  • Reduces acne scars
  • Evens out skin tone
  • Reduces freckles
  • It is an instant and easy procedure
  • Does not require downtime
  • Effective, painless, and comfortable procedure
  • Rejuvenates skin to give a brighter look
  • Treats photodamage
  • Enlarged pores are reduced by stimulating collagen

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Aftercare tips post Laser Hair Reduction

Laser hair reduction uses a concentrated beam of light to target the hair follicles. It involves a laser that emits light that is absorbed by the hair follicles. The pigment called melanin absorbs the laser light and destroys the hair follicle which stops the hair from growing. 

People opt for laser hair reduction to get rid of unwanted hair. The most common areas where they treat are the arms, legs, underarms, chin, upper lip, and the bikini line. Nearly any area can be treated for laser hair reduction except areas that have tattoos and raised scars. The basic principle of laser hair reduction is that it works to target the pigment in the hair follicle not the pigment of the skin. Therefore, it only damages the pigment in the hair follicle and does not damage the skin.

The idea is for laser hair reduction to be a long-term solution to get rid of unwanted hair by stopping the hair follicles from growing new hair. The hair and a person’s skin type affect the success of laser hair reduction. The contrast between the color of the skin and the color of the hair is important because the laser targets the pigment in the hair. Therefore, laser hair reduction is ideal for people who have dark hair. It is not effective for hair that is light in color because it has little to no pigment which the laser can’t target. 

Pre-care tips for laser hair reduction:

  1. Shave the area for the treatment before going to the treatment
  2. Avoid applying any makeup, deodorant, or lotion on the treatment area on the day of your treatment
  3. Avoid alcohol 24 hours before your laser hair reduction session
  4. Don’t wax the area for at least four weeks before the treatment

Post-care tips for laser hair reduction:

  1. Apply cold compress on the treated area
  2. Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun
  3. The time between your sessions should be 4-6 weeks
  4. Avoid deodorants
  5. Avoid perfumed lotions
  6. Avoid make-up 
  7. Avoid sun exposure
  8. Do not wax or tweeze your hair
  9. Avoid chemical peels
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Laser hair reduction vs. Electrolysis

What is Electrolysis?

Electrolysis is a method that destroys the growth of hair with either chemicals or heat. The hair root is destroyed with the help of a thin wire which is inserted into the hair follicle that destroys the hair root. The damaged follicle does not grow any more hair and existing hair falls out. Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the face, eyebrows, thighs, breasts, and legs.

This method of hair removal works well with all skin types and all types of hair colors. It is also safe and suitable for people with conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome. The hair growth significantly decreases over successive sessions and some people might see no growth at all. Electrolysis is actually a slower method of hair removal and the results may take time which also differs from individual to individual. The benefits of electrolysis include results that last long, no downtime required, and no use of any kind of chemicals that may harm the skin.

The pros of electrolysis:

  • It is permanent and recognized as a permanent hair removal method by FDA.
  • It can be used to remove hair from almost all body parts.
  • The treatment time and the gap between treatments also reduce over time as the hair growth reduces.

The cons of electrolysis:

  • Electrolysis is a lot more expensive as compared to other modes of hair removal.
  • The time for treatments and sessions is really long in the electrolysis treatment it can take as long as 18-22 months to completely get rid of all the hair.
  • Can irritate the skin because the electrologist goes back to the same hair follicle again and again. It can cause whiteheads and scabs in the treated area. It can also cause pigmentation and scarring.
  • The treatment can be painful and cause a stinging sensation
  • This treatment is not suitable for everyone.

What is laser hair reduction?

Laser hair reduction is not permanent but gets rid of 90 percent of your hair, leaving only 10 percent of really fine, barely discernible hair. Basically, the laser light attacks the hair follicles which arrests the growth of the hair follicle and puts it in a dormant state. Even if the hair manages to grow back it will be really fine, lighter, and few.

The laser uses heat beams to damage the hair follicles. These follicles are just beneath the skin and are responsible for hair growth. The heat generated by the beam is used to burn the hair follicle which arrests their growth cycle. The laser beam also targets melanin (a pigment) present in the hair follicle making it lighter. It basically reduces the intensity of the pigment.

When the procedure of laser hair reduction is done properly it can become a more long-term solution when you compare it to the usual methods of hair removal like waxing, shaving, or using hair removal creams. Laser hair reduction is most effective for people which darker thicker hair in which case they may require a few sittings before they see a complete result.

The pros of laser hair reduction:

  • The cost of laser hair reduction may seem expensive at first glance but it is actually not. The amount of money people spend in general on temporary solutions like waxing accumulates to a lot more money than the money spent on laser hair reduction which is a long-term solution for unwanted hair.
  • Laser hair reduction can be used on most parts of the body
  • The pain is really minimal as most people express a slight stinging sensation which is usually not painful. 
  • You start to see results right after the first session there is at least 10 to 25 percent of less hair growth. 
  • It usually has very mild side effects discomfort and slight swelling in the affected areas which go down in 24 hours

The cons of laser hair reduction:

  • It takes time but it does not take as long as electrolysis which takes months. Laser hair reduction takes up to 5-6 sessions to see a 95% reduction in hair growth. 
  • It is not entirely permanent. Even after six sessions, one might require a yearly maintenance treatment for small baby hair which is generally not visible. 
  • It is not advised for pregnant people. 
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Laser hair reduction with PCOS

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. This condition generally affects hormones and is characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, and infertility. In PCOS, the ovaries secrete an abnormal amount of androgens which is present more in males and in lesser quantities in females. This imbalance in hormones is what causes cystic ovaries. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that are present in the ovary. But not everyone with PCOS develops cysts in their ovaries. It is one of the most common causes of infertility in women and it can also increase your risk for other health conditions.

 Ovulation is an essential part of the menstrual cycle and women with PCOS have a problem in this process that results in cyst formation. These cysts then start secreting androgens. A woman can get PCOS at any time after puberty. Most people are diagnosed in their twenties and thirties usually around the time they try to get pregnant. A woman has a higher chance of getting PCOS if they are obese or overweight. 

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. But genetics and environmental factors play a role in triggering it. Several factors play a role in causing PCOS for example high levels of androgens, insulin resistance, and low-grade inflammation. 

The symptoms of the polycystic ovarian syndrome include irregular periods, acne, obesity, pigmentation, cysts, skin tags, thinning hair, infertility, and abnormal growth of hair. There is excessive growth of facial hair and heavy growth on the arms, chest, and abdomen. 

A lot of women suffer from the physical symptoms of PCOS like weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth. Problems like excessive hair that grow on the body can be treated with treatments like laser hair reduction.

How does laser hair reduction work with PCOS?

Different light base technologies are used for hair reduction treatment. What happens during a treatment is that bright flashes of light are exposed to hair follicles. The pigment present in the hair called melanin absorbs this light which effectively destroys it. Once that happens these hair follicles are arrested in their growth cycles and the hair stops growing in that area. Multiple sessions for laser hair reduction are required because hair is in different stages of growth therefore it requires multiple sessions to reduce it to 90 percent. This is ideal for people who suffer from excess hair growth from PCOS. They can get rid of unwanted hair once and for all.     

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Is Laser Hair Reduction really permanent?

Laser hair reduction is not permanent but removes 90 percent of your hair, leaving only 10 percent of really fine, barely discernible hair. Basically, the laser light attacks the hair follicles which arrests the growth of the hair follicle and puts it in a dormant state. Even if the hair manages to grow back it’s usually really fine, lighter, and few.

The laser uses heat beams to damage the hair follicles. These follicles are just beneath the skin and are responsible for hair growth. The heat generated by the beam is used to burn the hair follicle which arrests their growth cycle. The laser beam also targets melanin (the pigment present in the hair follicle making it lighter. It basically reduces the intensity of the pigment.

When the procedure of laser hair reduction is done correctly it can become a more long-term solution when you compare it to the usual methods of hair removal like waxing, shaving, or using hair removal creams. Laser hair reduction is most effective for people which darker thicker hair in which case they may require a few sittings before they see a complete result.

The treatment period may vary from 3 sessions to up to 8. Usually, people see a complete result in 5 or 6 sessions but people who suffer from hormonal conditions like PCOD and hypothyroidism might need more than 6 sessions to see a complete result. People experience 90 percent hair reduction only after several sessions. But this can’t be achieved after 1-2 sessions the reason behind this is that hair is usually under different stages of growth. This makes it impossible to target all the follicles in one session which is why you need multiple sessions for permanent hair reduction.

Each session of laser hair reduction can provide a certain level of hair reduction but that entirely depends on the individual’s re-growth rate and how effective the treatment is. When considering the rate of re-growth we also have to take into account the thickness and the darkness of the hair that grows again. If the hair grows back lighter and finer, it’s also part of hair reduction.

After 5-6 sessions of laser hair reduction, you will see that hair growth is reduced to 90 percent and any hair that does appear is really fine and light in color barely visible to the eyes. Some people might have some hair growth over the years which will require a touch-up session but otherwise, you are good to go. No more painful waxing or shaving.

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Does Laser Hair Reduction have side effects?

Laser hair reduction uses a concentrated beam of light to target the hair roots (also known as the hair follicles). The hair reduction procedure involves using a laser that emits light that is absorbed by the hair follicles. There is a pigment present in the hair follicles known as melanin which absorbs light and destroys the hair follicle which stops the hair from growing. 

People opt for laser hair reduction to get rid of unwanted hair. The most common areas where they treat are the arms, legs, underarms, chin, upper lip, and the bikini line. Nearly any area can be treated for laser hair reduction except areas that have tattoos and raised scars. The basic principle of laser hair reduction is that it works to target the pigment in the hair follicle not the pigment of the skin. Therefore, it only damages the pigment in the hair follicle and does not damage the skin.

The idea is for laser hair reduction to be a long-term solution to get rid of unwanted hair by stopping the hair follicles from growing new hair. The hair and a person’s skin type affect the success of laser hair reduction. The contrast between the color of the skin and the color of the hair is important because the laser targets the pigment in the hair. Therefore, laser hair reduction is ideal for people who have dark hair. It is not effective for hair that is light in color because it has little to no pigment which the laser can’t target. 

The possible side effects of laser hair reduction:

Redness and irritation

The hair follicles are damaged by laser and this elicits a reaction from the body which results in some irritation and redness in the area on which the treatment was done. The skin will feel warm, tingly, and tender. These symptoms are usually short-lived and can be dealt with by using a topical anesthetic before the treatment or using ice packs after the treatment. 

Crusting

Some people experience crusting of skin on the area of treatment. It is a minor issue but nothing to worry about. There may be some dry skin and scabbing but that can be taken care of by applying moisturizer regularly. 

Pimples/Folliculitis

Sometimes after a laser hair reduction procedure when the hair is shaved and then treated with a laser; the dead hair beneath the epidermis starts to surface and shed and sometimes this causes tiny bumps known as folliculitis and which happens when the skin is irritated. This can be simply treated with a topical antibiotic cream.

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How is Hydrafacial different from a salon facial?

Everybody loves smooth, even-textured, and even-toned skin. A facial is something that everybody opts for common skin problems like acne, blackheads, enlarged pores, dull skin, rough skin, texture, and wrinkles. We all know that facials are one of the best ways to take care of your skin and make it healthy and glowing. Having clear and radiant skin is the end goal for everybody. There are so many facials available out there that it has become difficult to choose which facial is suitable for our skin.

What is the difference between a regular facial and a hydrafacial?

A basic facial helps in cleansing and removing dirt and makeup. A regular facial may cause some discomfort because it involves extractions when the esthetician gets deeper into the pores. Both hydrafacial and traditional facials include cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration. But why should one choose a hydrafacial?

Hydrafacial is a result-driven facial treatment. Basically, a hydrafacial uses technology to provide a high-end service and deliver guaranteed results. Hydrafacials involve infusing serums to hydrate your skin. These facials use a vortex delivery system that removes dirt and clears clogged pores. It caters to all the skin’s needs. It works on conditions like fine lines, wrinkles, elasticity, even skin tone, etc. Hydrafacials are very versatile and can be easily modified to your skin by adding peels (which can be for moderate to aggressive exfoliation) depending on what your treatment is.

Serums like vitamin C and vitamin E are infused into the skin. Other benefits include:

  • Does not cause any discomfort or irritation
  • It does not require any downtime
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Results last longer than a regular facial
  • Minimizes fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improves the skin’s healing property
  • Provides deep hydration
  • Reduces inflammation and redness
  • Smoothes the skin texture
  • Painless
  • Instantly reduces pores
  • Provides better results than a traditional facial

How is a hydrafacial done?

A hydrafacial includes cleansing, abrasion, electro-scrubbing, again abrasion with vitamin C, Ultra-sound, radio frequency, Abrasion with vitamin E, cold stamp, peel, hydration mask, etc. Avataar’s hydration boost facial is an extensive facial for deep oxygenation, hydration, and exfoliation and works wonders on dry, rough, and damaged skin. It’s a perfect facial to incorporate into your daily skincare routine.

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Myths about Hydrafacial

Hydrafacials are one of the most popular facials that people opt for these days. With excellent results and zero downtime, people prefer hydrafacials that are intensely hydrating. A hydrafacial is high quality facial which uses the hydra-dermabrasion technique to clear clogged pores and hydrate the skin using intensely nourishing serums.

It does not require any downtime and is ideal for combating aging problems and drying the skin which promises results. There are many benefits to getting a hydrafacial and the results don’t only include soft and dewy skin; it can reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines. It nourishes the skin and facilitates collagen production. It also aids in repairing damage caused by sun exposure and discoloration.

Hydrafacial is suitable for all ages (18 and above) and all skin types. But people with conditions like an active rash, rosacea, or sunburn should not opt for this facial. Some of the most common myths associated with hydrafacial are:

Same hydrafacial suits everyone

This is false because a person with oily skin cannot opt for a facial that is tailor-made for dry skin. One facial cannot be used for all. There every client receives a hydrafacial which is crafted specifically for their skin type.

Hydrafacial abrasion poses risks

This is false because hydrafacials do not use any pressing or squeezing to clear clogged pores. Traditional facials use squeezing and tweezing but hydrafacial is gentle on the skin and uses painless extraction. This facial does not cause any peeling or irritation after the procedure. It is non-invasive and painless.

Hydrafacial cannot be used as a combination treatment

This is false in fact you can get treatment on the same day after getting a hydrafacial. Be it injections or LED treatments can be done after a hydrafacial treatment.

Results take the time or are inconsistent

The chances of ordinary facials leaving the skin swollen and red are highly possible. But hydrafacials provide results that are visible immediately after the treatment. The results from hydrafacial are efficient, safe, and consistent. It uses high-tech skincare tools which do not depend on the skills of the expert doing the facial for you which is why the results stay consistent. 

In conclusion, getting hydrafacial will only benefit your skin. It is suitable for anyone and everyone. It suits all skin tones. It rejuvenates your skin and provides intense hydration with no unnecessary downtime.

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Why acne from adolescence continues into adulthood?

Acne develops when the pores on your skin get clogged. The type of acne it produces depends on what clogs those pores. It can be blocked by oil, bacteria, dead skin cells, and dirt. Why does acne develop during the teenage years? One of the biggest reasons is the change in hormones. A certain hormone called androgens increases during adolescence which increases the size of the oil glands. This results in the production of more oil which will clog the pores.

The oil glands are called sebaceous glands and they are present right under the surface of the skin with the hair follicles. These glands secrete oil to keep the skin from drying out. But in the case of acne, it produces too much oil which clogs the pore along with the hair follicle which results in acne. Oil glands get active once puberty starts, which is why teenagers get acne.

But acne can be particularly frustrating for adults. Some adults continue to get acne from their teen years and others might develop acne well into their 40s. This is known as “adult-onset acne”. One of the most common causes of adult acne is hormonal imbalance. It is more common in women. Women experience fluctuating hormones during periods, pregnancy, birth pills, and menopause. Other contributing factors that can cause acne would be stress, genetics, hair and skin care products a person uses, or side effects of medications.

There are several myths about acne. It is one of the most common skin conditions and the most poorly understood problem. Some of the common myths include:   

  • Poor diet causes acne:

Eating a healthy balanced meal is important for a person’s health but there has been no research that backs poor diet causing acne.

  • Poor hygiene and dirty skin: 

The biological mechanisms that trigger acne always happen beneath the skin not on the surface therefore, hygiene has nothing to do with triggering acne. Keeping it clean has nothing to do with acne washing your face often might exacerbate the condition.

  • Squeezing your acne is the best way to get rid of it:

 No. It will make the acne worse and you will also end up with acne scars. Therefore, never squeeze your acne.

There are different types of acne- whiteheads and blackheads are known as comedones and are the most common type. Then there is inflammatory acne known as papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. These conditions will most likely leave scars on your skin.