What is the difference between “laser” and “IPL” hair removal?  What are the pros and cons?  They are very similar and work on similar mechanisms.  A laser is a traditional light device that puts out high-energy light of a specific wavelength.  An Intense Pulsed Light device (IPL) puts out broad-band light at high energy also.  Various filters on that light “tune” it to the desirable range of wavelengths, such as more green or more red light.

IPL devices came into common use in the 90′s, a good deal later than when lasers became available.  They are so popular because a single device can have handpieces with different color filters to provide hair removal for a range of different skin types.  A laser typically puts out only 1 wavelength and is therefore more limited.  For instance, an Alexandrite laser has excellent hair removal properties but is not as useful for darker skin types.  YAG laser can be used in all skin colors but is not as effective.  However, an IPL can be filtered in virtually any way and provides hair removal for virtually any skin color at the desired effectiveness.  Additionally, IPL devices typically have large spot sizes, making them fast as well as versatile.

A fair-skinned person with darker hair is the ideal candidate for hair removal with any device.  They will get good results with all of them but better if they stay away from YAG laser.  A darker skinned person should stay with YAG, red-filtered IPL, or diode.  There is a well-known risk of burns when getting laser or IPL hair removal that rises in proportion to pigment or tanning of the skin.  It is therefore important to discuss those risks with your provider and avoid sun exposure after treatment.

Celebrity Laser Spa  is pleased to announce the Grand Opening of our new medically-supervised weight loss program on May 11, 2010.  CLS (aka Tattoo MD) specializes in cosmetic skin treatments, tattoo removal and laser rejuvenation.  The addition of medically supervised weight-loss is logical for a spa that already focuses on beauty and wellness.
Obesity is an epidemic problem in this country.  At least 1/3 of the population suffers from obesity and its complications, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and others.  Even a 5% long-term weight reduction confers great benefits in health and longevity.  Furthermore, summer is coming, and don’t you want to shed those pounds and look your best?
The components of the CLS weight loss program include medical monitoring, nutrition, meal replacement, optional appetite suppression, and counseling.  The focus is on long-term weight loss and creation of healthy eating and exercise habits through lifestyle change.  Lifestyle change is not easy and the assistance of our dedicated clinical staff will help guide you to success
Celebrity Laser Spa is hosting a Grand Opening Party to kick off our weight loss program on May 11.  There will be group presentations, the opportunity to meet the clinicians, special program discounts, and refreshments.  Please call 310-312-1231 to reserve your spot (space is limited)!

Hydroquinone is a skin lightening chemical that works gradually to decrease skin pigment.  It can work on anything from melasma to sunspots.  Hydroquinone works by blocking the enzyme that makes melanin.  It doesn’t “bleach” the skin but rather causes melanin to gradually be lost.

The benefit of hydroquinone is that it is mild and works gradually.  This is also a downside.  Another issue is that it is hard to be precise with it since it is applied as a cream. Still, if you are considering lightening an area of skin for the first time, it is a relatively inexpensive and safe method to try.  The changes that occur also gradually return to their original state once hydroquinone is discontinued.

Hydroquinone is a good first step for the treatment of various hyper-pigmented skin conditions, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.  However, more aggressive methods, such as laser, may be utilized if one maximizes the benefits of hydroquinone.

Hydroquinone 4% from Vi Derm is available for purchase at CLS.