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Laser Hair Removal and Beta Carotene Photo Gallery
with Lyra Nd: YAG Laser

 

All efforts are made to reduce any adverse effects of laser hair removal treatment at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic on the skin by your cosmetic surgeon. The device used in laser hair removal filters the laser energy through a specially designed cooling window to protect the skin, and the cosmetic surgeon will also apply topical creams during and following the procedure for additional protection. However, for those considering undergoing the procedure, the consumption of beta carotene should also be reduced prior to treatment.

Beta carotene can adversely affect the results of a laser hair removal treatment at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic. In fact, high consumption of beta carotene may result in a rescheduling of your treatment.

Beta carotene is a member of the carotene family, also known as carotenoids. It is naturally occurring in vegetables and fruit such as carrots, squash, apricots, mangoes and leafy greens such as spinach. It also exists in egg yolks. Beta carotene contributes to their bright colouring, and can also be isolated and used as a colouring agent (orange or yellow pigment). Upon consumption, it acts as an antioxidant to protect the body from the damaging effects of oxidation. Converted into fat-soluble Vitamin A (retinol), it helps maintain and revitalize the eyes, skin, hair, immune functions, reproduction and mucous membranes.

The body converts only what it requires into Vitamin A. The excess amount consumed is then deposited into the skin, darkening the skin by giving it a yellowish-orange tinge. High amounts of beta carotene in the skin can make the skin more sensitive to sun exposure. Sensitivity to light can also make laser hair removal at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic more difficult to perform.

As a general rule, the darker the skin, the more difficult laser hair removal is. Therefore, even those who are tanned should wait until the tan fades before laser hair removal at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic.

During laser hair removal, laser energy is utilized to target the hair follicles and destroy them. However, the pigment in darker skin absorbs this laser energy instead, preventing or greatly reducing its effect on the hair follicles. Though some hair follicles may be destroyed, patients will most likely experience more discomfort while undergoing the laser hair removal treatment. Skin discolouration and blistering may occur.

It is highly recommended that foods high in beta carotene be avoided for a few weeks (or even months) prior to laser hair removal at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic, since it remains in the body for months following consumption. Before doing so, you should consult your doctor before undertaking any dramatic changes in your diet.

 

More Information

Laser Hair Removal at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic
About The Procedure
The Lyra Nd:YAG Laser
The Sciton Profile BBL
The StarLux™ 500
Photothermolysis
FAQ
Preparing for the Procedure
Hair Growth Stages
Beta Carotene
Hair Follicles