How does Ellipse treatment work?
The visible light from the flash lamp is guided via a glass prism to the hairy area. Hair contains pigment (melanin) that absorbs the light and converts it into heat. The heat is lead through the hair follicle which is then destroyed and rendered unable to produce new hair.To ensure optimal light transmission to the hair a thin layer of gel (similar to that used in ultrasound examinations) is applied to the skin. The hand held applicator is then slid over the entire treatment area by moving it exactly one width after each flash of light.
Can all hairs be treated?
As the treatment relies on absorbtion of light in the hair pigment (melanin), the most efficient treatment is seen with dark hair. The treatment is easiest when the patient has the greatest seperations between skin and hair colour (i.e. light skin / dark hair). However, the unique software of the Ellipse System has pre-programmed settings for different hair and skin colours that adjust the energy output accordingly.
How long does an Ellipse treatment take?
The glass prism of the Ellipse applicator guides the light to the skin. It is 1 cm by 5 cm so a large number of hairs are targeted in one flash of light. A facial treatment takes around 15 minutes whereas the back or both legs take 60-120 minutes.
Does it hurt?
No. No anaesthetics are required. Most people feel a warming of the area and easily tolerate the treatment.
Do I need to take special precautions before and after the treatment?
The technology is completely safe, so no special precautions are needed. However, it is important not to remove hair by depilation or waxing 4 weeks before treatment to ensure that as many hair follicles as possible contain a hair and thus can be destroyed by the light. Since tanning takes place by accumulation of pigment (melanin) in the skin it is also important to avoid tanning before and during the treatment sessions. Otherwise the skin will also absorb the heat, making treatment less effective.Generally no post-treatment is neccessary but people with very sensitive skin may benefit from using a soothing cream for a few days. It is also recommended to limit sun exposure and to use sunscreen (SPF 20+) for a few weeks following treatment.
How many Ellipse treatments do I need?
Hair growth is cyclical as hair follicles go through resting and growing phases. Only follicles in the growth phase contain hair and are destroyed by the heat. Resting hair follicles need to enter the growth phase before they can be destroyed by the Ellipse treatment. It is, therefore, necessary to repeat the treatment at intervals until all hair follicles have been through the growth phase.The length and timing of the growth cycles are affected by numerous factors such as body part, hair density and thickness, ethnic origin, hormonal status and age. Usually 3-6 treatments are needed and the intervals between treatments are typically 4-8 weeks.
