Laser hair removal works by sending a beam of laser light to a group of hair follicles with enough power to disable or destroy the root, but not enough power to harm the surrounding skin. This process is called selective photothermolysis, because it targets only the hair and not the skin. The surrounding skin is usually cooled with a gel, a spray, or a cooling tip. The laser beam finds the hair follicles by targeting the substance that gives skin and hair dark color - melanin. Therefore, the ideal candidate for laser hair removal has dark hair and light skin. The laser will not work on people with red, white, gray or true blond hair. The hot laser light will also be attracted to the melanin in the skin, so people with suntans, or dark skin types are at more of a risk for discoloration of pigment and other side effects. Laser only destroys hair in its active growth phase, the anagen phase. This phase lasts several years, and up to 85% of our hair is in that phase at any given time. The good thing is that during this phase, the hair has an abundance of melanin and the hair follicle is easily targeted. There are four different kinds of laser light that are commonly used for hair removal: Aesthera PPx Pain Free system - a new pneumatic energy and broad band light combination that is faster and easier than any other laser hair removal device
Alexandrite- such as the Candela GentleLase Plus.
Ruby- such as the EpiTouch or the Epilaser.
Diode- such as the Coherent Light Sheer.
ND, and LP ND Yag- such as the Candela GentleYag and the Altus Cool Glide. These are all effective, fast, comfortable and safe for permanent hair removal. There are several factors that a laser technician can often control to customize a treatment for efficacy, safety and comfort: Pulse length- long pulsed lasers are considered safest.
Fluence- Selection of energy levels can be varied for skin type.
Delay- The time in between pulses of light affects how much the skin and hair follicle are allowed to cool off
Spot Size- Affects the speed and penetration of the laser. A larger spot penetrates deeper. A good selection of spot sizes helps the technician reach the hair at the depth at which it grows.
Cooling- The surrounding skin may be protected by a gel, spray or cooled tip pressed against the skin. Complications from lasers built in the last few years are rare; however, you should discuss any potential complications with your doctor prior to beginning any medical procedure. As always beware of discount laser centers, not all lasers are the same, and this staff requires the proper medical knowledge, training and the ability to handle complications. Frequently Asked Questions about Laser Hair Removal
Brazilian Waxing vs. Brazilian Laser Hair Removal
FDA Information about Laser Hair Removal
Laser Hair Removal in Houston Texas
Thomas P. McHugh, MD Dr. Thomas P. McHugh received his medical degree and served his internship and residency in General Surgery at Wayne State University, Detroit, in the early 1980s. He then completed his residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, from 1988 to 1991. During that time, he became Chief Resident in Plastic Surgery. Dr. McHugh has been in private practice since 1991 and was certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery in 1993. He is on the Medical Staff of several hospitals, including TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital, Houston Northwest Medical Center and Northwest Surgery Center in the I-45/FM1960 area; Renaissance Outpatient Surgical Center and Northeast Medical Center in Humble; and Kingwood Medical Center and Kingwood Specialty Hospital in Kingwood, TX. He has been an appointee to several medical staff committees at these facilities, including Chief of Plastic Surgery at Houston Northwest Medical Center, Chief of Surgery at Houston Northwest Medical Center and Chief of Staff at Northeast Outpatient Surgery Center. Dr. McHugh is a member of many prestigious professional societies that include the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons, Houston Society of Plastic Surgeons, Texas Medical Association and the Harris County Medical Association. Our Philosophy Each patient's safety and well-being is our primary concern. We enjoy helping people improve their overall appearance and the way they feel about themselves. Dr. Thomas McHugh and his staff give 100% at all times to ensure that his patients receive exceptional care. Nearly all of Dr. McHugh�s patients come to him from patient to patient referrals. A referral is the best compliment that we can receive.
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Thomas P. McHugh, MD also performs:
Acne Treatment Houston
Anti Aging Medicine Houston
Arm Lift Houston
Blepharoplasty Houston
Body Lift Houston
BOTOX Houston
Breast Augmentation Houston
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Chin Surgery Houston
Cosmetic Surgery Houston
Dermabrasion Houston
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Endoscopic Forehead Lift Houston
Endotine Houston
Facelift Houston
Facial Fillers Houston
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Fraxel Houston
IPL Houston
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Laser Hair Removal Houston
Laser Lipolysis Houston
Laser Skin Resurfacing Houston
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Rosacea Treatment Houston
Silicone Breast Implants Houston
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Thigh Lift Houston
Tummy Tuck Houston
Ultrasonic Liposuction Houston
Vaginal Rejuvenation Houston
Interesting plastic surgery and health facts about Houston
Houston is hands down the most cosmopolitan and vibrant city in Texas, known primarily for its innovative spirit and unwavering determination in the fields of energy, aerospace, communications, and most importantly, medicine. Home to the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, the most ground breaking researchers, surgeons, and teachers call Houston their home.
The Texas Medical Center, just next to West University Place and south of downtown Houston, is easily accessible from all outlying areas such as Pearland, Friendswood, Katy, Spring, and The Woodlands. The recently implemented Metro rail system makes the area even more accessible and will eventually connect most of Harris County with the Medical Center.
Houston’s fabulous and world-class locations at the Galleria and at Highland Village in River Oaks gives residents and visitors endless opportunities for recreation, special events, and economic growth.
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