Ancillary Procedures in Plastic Surgery : Hair Removal with the MultiLight System

CEBU, Philippines - Removal of unwanted body hair is of major importance to many women and to increasing numbers of men. Tremendous sums of money and much time and energy are spent in pursuit of the smooth, hairless look. Although there are diseases or conditions where there is an increased hair growth, most unwanted hair is a cosmetic rather than a medical problem.

Treatment options for hair removal

Shaving: This is the most common method of hair removal and possibly the most convenient. Shaving is not, however, a long term hair removal treatment because it does not impair hair growth.

Depilatory Cream: This method is extremely tedious and time-consuming since the cream must remain applied until the hair is fully dissolved, and hair can return as quickly as within a week. Many people find the cream to have an unpleasant odor, and the process to be very messy.

Waxing: A popular method as it is intended to last anywhere from two to four weeks. Some people find this method painful, and it can cause skin irritations and pimples.

Electrolysis: By passing an electric current through the fair follicle, this technique damages some follicle beds and slows hair regrowth. However, it can be painful, time-consuming and expensive, as each follicle must be treated individually. Multiple treatments over a period of months to years are usually necessary, and scarring and skin irritations often result.

Lasers: New and improved laser systems are being used for hair removal with varying effectiveness and results. Since the laser’s single wavelength requires a certain amount of contrast between skin color, hair color and absorption ratios, several devices are less effective for treating lighter colored hair and darker skin tones.

MultiLight Hair Removal System: Is ESC’s proprietary intense pulse light technology that allows physicians to customize treatment parameters to allow for successful, longer lasting removal of unwanted hair from all parts of the body on a wide range of skin types, ranging from light to dark complexions, while protecting the overlying skin from burns and their resulting scars.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is actually meant by Hair Removal ?

The term “permanent hair removal” is probably misleading since it would imply 100 percent hair removal and that hair would never grow again. The truth is there is a minimal number of hair follicles that may remain after the complete course of treatment. Hence the proper term should be “permanent hair reduction” and anyone who claims they can remove ALL hair permanently probably don’t know what they are saying.

2. How is MultiLightTM different from conventional lasers?

The MultiLightTM system is a non-invasive, broad spectrum device that operates on the principle of selective photothermolysis in which intense pulsed light is used to selectively destroy target tissue. Its revolutionary technology enables physicians to effectively treat a variety of skin types and hairs of every color and rooted at various depths of the skin. Another difference is MultiLight’s flexibility . The treatment parameters can be selectively chosen to allow the epidermis to cool, this minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. In addition, MulitLightTM has a much larger spot size (8 x 35 mm) than a laser, enabling it to quickly cover extensive areas of treatment and reduce treatment time.

3. How does MultiLightTM remove hair?

The HR capability of MultiLightTM uses intense pulse light to eliminate unwanted hair of all colors from all parts of the body in skin. When the light is absorbed by the melanin pigment found in the hair follicle, hair shaft, or bulb, it raises their temperature to a high enough level to destroy the targeted hair structures and stunt hair growth. MultiLight’s unique method of hair removal, called photo-epilation, enables the physician to harness the pulsed light so that it penetrates deeply enough and with sufficient energy to destroy the hair follicles without harming the surrounding tissue.

4. Can all hair colors and parts of the body be treated?

The system’s unique design offers customized treatment, according to the patient’s hair color, texture and location on the body. MultiLight removes all hair colors from all parts of the body including the chin, upper lip, cheeks, legs, arms, underarms, and back – as well as sensitive area like the ears, nose, chest, and bikini line.

5. How does MultiLight compare with other hair removal methods?

Shaving, waxing, and depilatory creams are all temporary methods that must be repeated on a regular basis. Hair removal with the Multilight process offers longer lasting results even when compared to some of the laser products.

6. What is treatment like?

Treatment sessions are done on an out-patient basis at the clinic. First a cool gel with the hand held treatment unit is applied to the skin. The actual pulse involves a pulse of intense light similar to a flash of a camera. One may feel a mild sting similar to the snap of a rubber band. No local anesthesia or pain medication is required. Each session lasts for about 15-30 minutes.

7. How does MultiLightTM compare with electrolysis?

Electrolysis is a tedious, invasive and painful process that involves inserting a needle into each hair follicle and delivering an electrical charge to destroy them one at a time. Electrolysis often requires years of treatment at regular intervals, and its success is highly dependent on the operator. MultiLight non-invasively treats hundreds of hair follicles spontaneously.

8. What are the side effects of hair removal with the MultiLight?

Potential side effects are generally few and temporary. There may be redness or swelling at the treatment site, and this usually disappears within a day. Occasionally, changes in pigmentation can be observed, but typically these go away in several weeks. Other seldom seen side effects may include blistering and purpura.

9. Who are the candidates for treatment?

Most people, including children, can be treated with the MultiLight process; however, a doctor should determine if a person’s condition is suitable for these treatments. This may require a consultation visit.

10. How many treatments are required?

The number of treatments required for hair removal varies depending upon hair color and location on the body. Several treatments maybe required, with each session lasting 10-30 minutes.

11. Are there restrictions on activity after treatment?

Patients can return to work the same day and resume all regular activities. One should limit exposure to the sun, which is always a good idea.

12. Is MultiLightTM cleared by the USFDA?

Yes, ESC Medical Systems received clearance on June 1998, from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to market MultiLight, a new version of its PhotoDerm and EpiLight intense pulsed light system.