The following is general information regarding treatment
with EpiLight:
How does EpiLight™ work?
EpiLight™ uses non-laser intense pulsed light and has been FDA approved for long term hair reduction. Hair follicles
that are in the active growth phase are destroyed.
Is the treatment painful?
Some patients report discomfort during treatment that feels like a rubber band snap. The discomfort may range from
mild to moderate and does not last long. Patients who have had this treatment say it is much less uncomfortable
than waxing or electrolysis. A burning sensation may last for up to one hour. A cold compress or Aloe Vera lotion
may be used if needed.
Is the hair removal permanent?
EpiLight™ is considered to result in permanent hair reduction. On average a single treatment with EpiLight™ will
reduce hair counts by 60% after a 12 week period (generally higher than laser hair removal); there has been up
to 90% reduction after about 5 treatments and the hair loss to date has been maintained for up to 2 years (Medical
Letter vol. 41, #1058, 1999).
Is there any skin type that cannot have this procedure done?
In general, the best results are with lighter skin and darker hair. The process works less well for gray, white
or red hair. This process also does not work well in very dark skin which is close in color to the color of the
hair being treated; in fact, even though these skin types generally don't burn with the sun they are more likely
to burn with EpiLight™ and therefore treatment is not advised.
What if I have white or gray hair or only a few
problem hairs?
If your hair is white or entirely gray or if there is only a very tiny area to be done you may have better results
with another method such as electrolysis. Also, any areas that require very fine shaping such as the arch of the
eyebrow may be better treated with electrolysis.
How many treatments will I need?
The treatment targets actively growing hairs. The amount of hair reduction after any treatment is higher in areas
where there is more hair in the active hair growth (i.e., facial area). Likewise, the amount of hair reduction
after any one treatment is somewhat lower in areas where there is less active hair growth (i.e., back, pubic area,
and legs). Initially, best results are achieved with three treatments spaced at four-week intervals. In areas such
as the legs or bikini, 5 or more treatments may be needed. Areas that have been previously waxed or plucked may
also require 5 treatments. Individual results may vary.
Are there any side effects of the treatment and
can they be avoided?
There is potential for a mild burn to the skin (especially in persons with very dark skin or those who have been
"tanning"). There is also potential for increased or decreased pigment in the skin. To minimize any possible
problems, it is very important to avoid sun tanning during the treatment period for EpiLight™ and use sunscreen.
In general, tanning should be avoided for one month prior to EpiLight™ treatment (and in general to maintain healthy
skin!). Self-tanning creams should also be avoided. Sun exposure increases the concentration of pigment in the
skin and greatly increases the risk for burning or pigment changes with EpiLight treatment.
Your treatments will be less effective if you are using any hair removal process that can damage the hair follicle;
this means waxing, plucking, electrolysis and the use of depilatories. These methods should be avoided for several
weeks prior to treatment. It is fine to shave between treatments but there should be a short "stubble"
at the time of treatment.
What do I do if I want to proceed with EpiLight™?
Call our office to set up a consultation. One of our physicians will review your medical history to make sure there
is no contraindication to treatment and then a "patch test" will be done to see how your skin reacts.
Your first treatment may then be set up in the next 2-7 days, or may be done at the time of the patch test depending
on your skin type and the area to be treated.
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