Advertising   HISTORY In the 1960's dermatologists first used lasers to cut tissue and remove skin lesions. These used continous beams and were difficult to control, causing collateral damage where it wasn't wanted. Next, pulsed lasers were developed which were easier to control and infinately more precise. The 1980's brought the ability of lasers to target specific colors. The pulsed dye laser was invented, which targets veins and red spots. It was then that researchers began experimenting with lasers for hair removal.   HOW DOES IT WORK? The principle behind laser hair removal is simple: a specific wavelength of light is attracted to a specific target color. Melanin in the hair shaft and lower follicle absorb the energy, which rapidly turns to heat. The duration of the laser pulse is measured in milliseconds allowing only the target structures to be heated. This rapid heating damages the follicle's ability to produce hair cells. During treatments, the skin is protected with a cooling spray or ice-cold air. This also serves to reduce any discomfort. Not all the follicles in a treatment area are producing hair at the same time; this is why several treatments are required. Treated hairs are gradually shed over a two-week period after which the patient enjoys months of being hair free. When previously dormant follicles begin to produce hair, it's time for the next appointment. All body areas can be treated and most patients who have been shaving for years are surprised to learn how easy it is to permanently remove unwanted hair.   DOES IT HURT? The sensation is similar to having a small rubber band snapped against the skin. Candela lasers use a cooling spray before each laser pulse to control pain. Most people are comfortable throughout the treatments. If you have an area that is extra sensitive, my medical director Dr. Robert Miles will prescribe an anesthetic cream to apply beforehand.   HOW MANY TREATMENTS? Hair follicles go through stages of growth. Laser light will only damage the follicles that are in the active stage. Only 15-20% of follicles in an area are active at one time. So you will need between 6-10 treatments to remove all the hairs. Treatments are spaced 8-10 weeks apart.   HOW LONG ARE APPOINTMENTS? The Candela laser can pulse 1.5 to 2 times per second. Each pulse is the size of a quarter. So it depends on the area of the body treated. A full back is done in about 20 minutes, underarms take 1 minute, bikini takes 5 minutes and a full body treatment for a man would take about 90 minutes. Many people enjoy their IPOD during treatments.