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Who Can You Trust to Perform Laser Treatments and Injections?
Make Sure Your Specialist is Legitimate
There’s a wide and exciting world of amazing options out there for those who are unhappy with their skin, whether it’s because of acne scarring, sun or age spots, wrinkles, uneven tone, pigmentation, stretch marks, rosacea, or pronounced veins. With the right laser treatment, Botox, or dermal filler, these issues that are bothering you can be greatly improved or eliminated altogether.
However, if you’re like many people, you may be nervous about the person who will be administering your treatment. After all, lasers and needles don’t exactly invite comfort to begin with. Shouldn’t you be absolutely certain that your specialist is, well…a specialist?
While laser and dermal treatments aren’t invasive like surgery, they still require more trust than something like a haircut or manicure. They are widely accepted and popular, but it’s important that you’re completely sure that the spa or clinic you visit employs a licensed staff, as well as an in-house doctor.
Because of the popularity of these treatments, an overwhelming number of facilities are now offering them, even though lasers and fillers may not be their area of expertise. You’ll see quite a few eye doctors, nail salons, and dentist offices that provide cosmetic treatments, but they aren’t always the best choice. It’s better to leave cosmetic treatments to those who were specifically trained.
How do you know that your specialist is legitimate? Here are some things to know.
Your Specialist Should Take a Long Look at You
If you feel that your specialist is in a rush and trying to get you out the door, run for the hills. A professional who cares about your satisfaction will study your face: every line, blemish, spot, and shape. They will do this in order to determine your dosage (in the case of fillers or Botox) or the level of laser you need (if you’re getting laser work done). When it comes to injections, dosage and placement make all the difference.
Run from Groupon-Type Deals
A spa or facility offering “discount Botox” or discount anything to do with lasers or needles is to be heavily avoided. Why? Because discount Botox shows. It’s simply not an area to skimp. Most people who decide to go with cheap injections or laser treatments just end up paying for it later—literally. They have to visit a different specialist for damage control.
A Professional Will Keep Your Records
When it comes to injectables, there is no “one size fits all” amount. This is why a legitimate specialist will keep your unit numbers on file for your future visits. It will help them (and you) to understand what’s working for you. The last amount you received might have been too much, or not enough.
A Real Doctor Should be on Staff
Most states require a licensed doctor to be on staff at any business that administers laser or injectable treatments. While this is the law, many places try to get around this by advertising a “supervising doctor,” which basically means that their doctor is technically employed, but is never around. It’s very important that the business you choose not only has a doctor on staff, but that he or she is actually available. Find a place with a very involved, caring doctor.
At Monterey Laser, we take what we do extremely seriously. As a laser and skin care facility with professional registered nurses, we are committed to providing the smoothest, safest experience for each and every one of our clients with the best technology and products available. Our very own Dr. Brown is in everything we do, and we are far more qualified than some other local centers.
Get to know us here. If you’re considering any laser treatments or dermal fillers, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation! We look forward to hearing from you.
Sclerotherapy for Summertime
Understanding Sclerotherapy
Summer is upon us but you don’t need to be self-conscious about your veins! Even though summer means shorts, skirts, and swimsuits, there’s no need to hide your skin. Sclerotherapy is a fantastic option if you’re having a “hate-hate” relationship with your unattractive (and perhaps painful) veins.
So, what is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy has helped thousands of people feel confident showing off their legs again, and it also helps with the pain. Whether you have varicose veins or spider veins, sclerotherapy turns them into scar tissue, and they fade away and disappear. The result is beautiful skin sans ugly veins.
What is the process?
As with any cosmetic treatment, a specialist will talk with you about the areas that concern you the most, and he or she will focus on that specific part of your skin.
During the actual sclerotherapy procedure, the specialist will use a micro needle to inject medicine into the veins. This causes the lining of the blood vessels to collapse, which makes the vein shrink and eventually disappear.
At the end of your sclerotherapy session, depending on the severity of your vein situation, you’ll probably have about 30 needle pricks and light wrap on the treated area.
Normally, 2-4 sclerotherapy sessions are required, but if your veins are fairly mild, you may only require 1-2 sessions. You may have to have the same vein injected more than once.
Does it hurt?
It’s not a completely painless treatment. As mentioned above, sclerotherapy uses a micro needle, which can feel like a tiny sting, and many patients describe the pain as a series of “small burning sensations.” However, they also state that the pain goes away quickly and is very tolerable.
Is sclerotherapy safe?
Yes! When sclerotherapy is performed by a professional, it’s a very safe procedure. It’s extremely important to ensure that your specialist is a licensed professional who is careful and sensitive to you as a patient. Make sure they’re not only a medical professional but that you also feel very comfortable with the entire staff.
Is there recovery time?
Recovery time will depend on the type and the size your veins, and how much work was done; however, walking is recommended soon after the procedure. Some patients experience bruising and swelling at the treated areas but are able to return to their normal routine the next day.
Is sclerotherapy effective?
Yes. Once your veins disappear, they’re gone permanently. The difference can be noticed with 3-6 weeks, and you’ll have the same smooth skin that you used to—not to mention no more pain.
Sclerotherapy is a truly helpful treatment that gets significant results for patients who are unhappy with their visible veins. If you’re interested in this process and have questions for our sclerotherapy experts at Monterey Laser & Skin Care, please contact us to talk! We’re happy to answer all of your questions.
Home Laser Hair Removal Devices Versus Professional Laser Hair Removal
Which Solution is Best For You?
There are many beauty treatments that we attempt to do at home: manicures, dyeing our hair, exfoliations. But laser hair removal? Is that even possible, much less effective?
Turns out, yes, it is. There are home laser hair removal devices available, and these can be pretty tempting. After all, they’re less expensive than going to a professional, and then there’s the added convenience of being able to do your own lasering from the comfort of your bedroom.
However, as with any do-it-yourself beauty treatments, there are significant pros and cons. If you’re considering home laser hair removal device, know the facts.
Effectiveness
Fact: home laser hair removal devices are not as powerful as those used by medical professionals. Why? Because in the hands of a non-specialist (that’s you), the laser technology that professionals use would simply be too dangerous for at-home use. Normal folks could end up burning themselves and causing skin damage. Therefore, for home laser devices, the effectiveness is not as strong.
Convenience
True, if you invest in a home laser hair removal device, you can do your own treatments more comfortably, at home. However, there is a price to pay. Because a home device is weaker, you’ll be required to do laser yourself more than you would need to at a professional clinic. This can become frustrating and time-consuming.
Results
Everything else aside, when it comes down to it, which method actually produces the best results? It depends on you and how much hair removal you want—however, we can tell you that at-home laser hair removal devices require more treatments and the hair is less likely to be gone permanently, due to the reduced power of the home lasers.
And So…
This is a decision that will always come down to the individual’s personal preference—much like dyeing your hair at home versus going to a salon. Some people believe they can do it themselves, and others prefer visiting a professional. But considering how comfortable laser hair removal clinics are these days and how thorough of a job they do, laser hair removal should probably be one of those things you leave to the experts.
At Monterey Laser, we’re certified laser hair removal professionals. If you’re interested in having your unwanted hair removed by a specialist, please contact us any time!
Does FemiLift™ Have Side Effects or Risks?
Non-Surgical Solution For Vaginal Tightening
For many years, women had very few options for vaginal tightening. And, none of them were ideal in terms of addressing urinary incontinence or enhanced sexual pleasure. Doing Kegel exercises helps, but doesn’t provide an immediate or remarkably measureable difference and only affects certain vaginal muscles. Surgery is a major undertaking that involves downtime and a risk for common complications associated with any surgical procedure.
Then FemiLift with Alma’s CO2 laser came along, giving women a truly practical option with proven results, no risks and little to no side effects. Hallelujah!
FemiLift is a laser resurfacing of the vagina. The laser emits energy that promotes and stimulates collagen production to strengthen muscles – muscles that lose elasticity after childbirth and as women age. For middle-aged women who’ve had children and in menopause, it’s a double whammy that makes sex less pleasurable and stress urinary incontinence a problem. FemiLift tackles both.
Okay, So What is the Catch, Risks or Side Effects of FemiLift?
With the FDA-approved FemiLift procedure, you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. Though the treatment is more effective for some women than others, FemiLift won’t make stress urinary incontinence worse or leave vaginal muscles looser than they were before the procedure.
There are very few side effects and risks associated with FemiLift. It is a laser treatment following many of the same safety protocols that apply when using it on other parts of the body, like the face for laser skin resurfacing. A FemiLift treatment shouldn’t be performed if you have an active infection, take blood thinners, have a connective tissue disorder, or take medication that could interfere with the healing process. It’s important to review all of these with our staff.
There is no risk of infection since the CO2 laser wand looks a bit like an internal ultrasound wand. It’s covered with a sterile, one-time use, disposable cover. Unlike when used for skin rejuvenation, this laser treatment does not cause any peeling in the vagina. And, even though FemiLift uses thermal heat, the temperature is lower when used for vaginal tightening so it’s completely painless, takes just 10 to 15 minutes and has no downtime.
Let’s talk about whether FemiLift is right for you. Contact our office and we’ll be happy to answer your questions or schedule a complimentary consultation.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Stress Uninary Incontinence
Can Femilift™ Treat Stress Urinary Incontinence?
Kegels, schmegels. They’re not helping. You’ve stopped wearing light-colored pants because you’re afraid a little urine might leave a wet spot when you cough or sneeze. You’ve told your girlfriends on more than one occasion not to make you laugh or you might pee yourself. Little do they know you’re serious. You’ve resorted to wearing maxi pads or panty liners rather than deal with wet underwear.
So many women, of all ages, deal with the stress and embarrassment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). So many women think it’s the price of motherhood or a natural part of aging. Child birth and aging are leading causes of SUI, but you don’t have to worry about it every time you cough, sneeze or laugh anymore. If stress urinary incontinence is affecting your life, it’s time to consider the FemiLift™.
How FemiLift™ Treats SUI
As we age, collagen is naturally depleted, which is why our faces (and vaginas) aren’t as tight as they once were. For younger women, childbirth can stretch vaginal muscles and lead to SUI.
FemiLift is an FDA-approved, non-surgical treatment for stress urinary incontinence using Alma’s CO2 laser. Similar to skin resurfacing, think of this procedure is laser resurfacing for the vagina. A slender vaginal probe safely emits laser energy in the vaginal canal – full length and circumference. This energy promotes and stimulates collagen production, just as it does when used for laser skin resurfacing. The result is a tightening of the muscles in the area. Since the CO2 laser promotes collagen, ligaments supporting surrounding the bladder and urethra are strengthened and reduces the leakage due to stress urinary incontinence.
You Can Get FemiLift™ in Monterey, CA
Monterey Laser invested in Alma’s CO2 laser because we listened to our patients. Stress urinary incontinence is a very common and frustrating condition that no one likes talking about, but can be treated easily and painlessly in our office. The FemiLift procedure takes only 10 to 15 minutes with little to zero downtime. And, generally, our patients report remarkable results with just three FemiLift sessions, but many say they can tell a difference after the first appointment. Another benefit beyond freedom from “peeing your pants?” Improved sexual experiences. Since FemiLift tightens vaginal muscles, sexual sensation is heightened.
Let’s talk about whether FemiLift is right for you. Contact our office and we’ll be happy to answer your questions or schedule a complimentary consultation.
Myths About Hair Removal
9 Laser Hair Removal Myths
If you’ve never had laser hair removal treatments, but are considering them, you may be hesitant because a few “facts” about the process have scared you off. These “facts” may include things like tales of radiation destroying your organs, or new hairs sprouting uncontrollably. But it’s important to know the truth about laser hair removal, and which “facts” are actually myths.
The Myth #1: Laser Hair Removal is Permanent
The laser’s heat will zap hair follicles, which causes the hair to fall out in the following weeks. Hair will not grow back from these “zapped” follicles, however, new follicles can develop—and hair can grow from these. So, laser hair removal is permanent in that it causes hair to stop growing from follicles, but a touch up treatment may be required every few years. Despite this, laser hair removal is still considered the most long-lasting hair removal treatment available.
The Myth #2: Laser Hair Removal Causes Ingrown Hairs
This is so false that actually the opposite is true. Laser hair removal can be quite helpful in reducing ingrown hairs. It is an excellent treatment for ingrown hairs.
The Myth #3: Laser Hair Removal is Very Painful
This is one of the more common myths, as it seems to be the one that keeps the most people from trying laser hair removal. The truth is, this myth most likely originated from the days when laser hair removal was brand-new and more unpredictable. The lasers and technology have come a long way over the years. Most patients these days find laser hair removal to be very tolerable, or painless altogether. However, the amount of discomfort will depend on what area is being treated and your unique pain threshold. The “pain” is usually described as a continuous snap of a rubber hand on the skin, with some heat added. Keep in mind that these days, lasers have attached cooling devices, and numbing cream is also available if needed.
The Myth #4: Laser Hair Removal Can Be Completed in One Session
You may have heard that laser hair removal can be done completely in one session using “a really powerful laser.” False! This simply can’t be done—sorry. The hair removal laser is most effective at destroying hairs that are actively growing, which makes up about 25% of the total. It does not work as well on hairs that are currently not growing. Hair grows on a cycle of every five weeks. Therefore the laser hair treatments are scheduled about every 5 five weeks and about 25% of the hair follicles are destroyed at each treatment. This is why patients will need multiple treatments scheduled about five weeks apart.
The Myth #5: Laser Hair Removal Will Damage Your Skin
As long as you choose a licensed nurse or physician, like those at Monterey Laser & Skin Care for your laser hair removal treatments, this myth is false. Laser hair removal affects the hair follicles only—not the skin. Some patients may experience a little swelling or redness, but no true damage such as scarring will happen if done by a professional.
The Myth #6: Laser Hair Removal Can Damage Internal Organs
False. The laser used in laser hair removal treatments can only penetrate a few millimeters into the skin, and cannot cause any damage to the internal organs.
The Myth #7: Laser Hair Removal Exposes You to Radiation
Similar to concerns about the treatments damaging organs, the radiation myth has probably come from people simply hearing the word “laser.” Hair removal lasers aren’t in a dangerous radiation range—they operate on a safe (and approved) wavelength of light.
The Myth #8: Laser Hair Removal Causes More Hair to Grow
It may seem like this is happening, but it’s temporary. Once your laser hair removal session is over, new hair follicles may form, but the amount of hair will be significantly less compared to the time before the hair removal session. With the correct amount of treatments, all hairs in the treated area will be removed.
The Myth #9: Laser Hair Removal is Too Expensive
We won’t lie to you—laser hair removal treatments aren’t cheap. However, they aren’t “too” expensive, either. Most people react strongly because they look at the bulk cost for several treatments and see a pretty high number, but what’s important to understand is that laser hair removal treatments save you both money and time in the long run over waxing and such. Savings on shaving products, plus the buildup of time spent on getting rid of body hair, is well worth the cost to many.
Don’t let false myths stand in your way of laser hair removal, which is the perfect way to save yourself from the time-consuming and often-frustrating process of getting rid of your own body hair. To learn more or book an appointment with our certified laser hair removal professionals, please contact us today!
Brazilian Laser Hair Removal
Get the Look, Ditch the Wax
The Brazilian, a look many women want, but shy away from because of the fear of waxing such a sensitive area. A Brazilian look also comes with its fair share of upkeep since waxing hairs in the pubic area is the same as any other area – it eventually grows back, which often brings itchiness or a five o’clock shadow before your next waxing appointment. What is the ultimate solution to having the perfect, permanent Brazilian? Four words: Brazilian laser hair removal.
No more painful waxing “down there.” No more trying to reach hard-to-reach areas yourself. No more itchiness during regrowth and no more less-than-attractive pubic stubble. A Brazilian laser hair removal for the pubic area is no different than laser hair removal on other areas of the body, like your arms, legs and face. However, like other body areas, achieving hair-free results will take several appointments spaced approximately four to six weeks apart to accommodate hair follicles’ growing cycle. With each appointment though, hair in the pubic area becomes sparser as the laser destroys the hair follicles.
Is Brazilian Laser Hair Removal the Right Way to Go for You?
There are women for whom the Brazilian look will eventually pass, and there are those who can’t imagine going through life any other way. How you feel about the Brazilian will guide your decision on whether to invest in permanent results or to continue waxing. If you can’t image ever wearing a swimsuit or lingerie without a Brazilian, investing in laser hair removal might be the solution, and alternative, to waxing that you’ve always wished you always had.
And men, we’re talking to you, too. For the same reasons many men choose to get laser hair removal on their chests and backs, the same applies to the pubic region. If you’ve ever nicked an “un-nickable part” then laser hair removal in the pubic area is way to avoid the possibility or ever doing that again.
A fair share of athletes and bodybuilders come to Monterey Laser & Skin Care for laser hair removal in private regions so that they are always competition ready. However, don’t tan prior to your appointment because lasers target darker areas and a tan can throw off those targets.
In the end, Brazilian laser hair removal is a lifestyle and aesthetic choice, and one that is more common than you might think, and it is one of our most requested services. Whether you remove all pubic hair for a smooth, clean appearance or choose a version of it such as a Brazilian with stripe (all hair removed but leaving stripe of hair), Brazilian with triangle (all hair removed but leaving a triangle of hair) or a custom Brazilian with a design of your choice.
Brazilian laser hair removal is a safe, permanent way to get a smooth pubic area, free of the pain and irritation that comes from waxing. It gives you the confidence of never worrying about how you look “down there” or planning around your waxing appointments. Plus, you decide how much or how little of the hair is permanently removed from your genital region.
Schedule an appointment with us at Monterey Laser & Skin Care to learn more about the Brazilian laser hair removal, and say goodbye to waxing forever.
Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?
What Does Laser Hair Removal Feel Like?
You’ve researched laser hair removal, weighed the pros and cons between shaving, waxing, and permanently removing body hair. And, here you are on the cusp of just going for it – laser hair removal – you’re going to be hair-free and never have to shave or wax last minute again. There’s one more thing you want to know before scheduling your appointment for laser hair removal at Monterey Laser & Skin Care, what does laser hair removal feel like?
Maybe it’s the word “laser” that we associate with the potential pain. Maybe we’ve seen too many movies associating lasers with weapons and death rays. The reality is that laser hair removal is tolerated extremely well. The newest generation of lasers for hair removal spray the skin with a liquid that freezes the skin just before the laser is fired. This accomplishes two things, first it minimizes any pain from the laser and two it protects the skin from damage. Patients will experience a quick zap. Some people describe the sensation like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Afterwards the skin will be warm and a little sensitive. You know your tolerance for pain. If a rubber band snap makes you cringe, then expect a little discomfort. If you tend to be more of a trooper, then you probably won’t be bothered at all.
While we’d love to say, “Don’t worry, you won’t feel a thing,” the reality is that people experience pain differently. What we can say is that the hair-free results of laser hair removal are worth it. For some, laser hair removal is a life-changing experience. If you want to make the jump and lose annoying hair once and for all, schedule an appointment with Monterey Laser & Skin Care. Our staff will even hold your hand if you’re the least bit nervous. But if you’re like most of our clients, you’ll be just fine and excited to get the hair-free areas you’ve always wanted.
Laser Hair Removal for Men
Six Things Most Men Don’t Know About Laser Hair Removal (But You Will)
As 2017 finds its self well into summer, more and more of us are going to the beach, pool parties, and on vacations. This means we’re seeing lots more skin. Because this time of year basically has a dress code of “swimsuit,” many women head to Monterey Laser for laser hair removal. But did you know that just as many men go as women? Laser hair removal is not just for guys who want a David Beckham chest. Many men get laser hair removal treatments for their back, neck, stomach, nether-regions, and yes, their chest.
Here are a few things you may not know about laser hair removal for men.
1. Laser hair removal is less painful than waxing. Far less.
Remembers the scene in The 40-Year-Old Virgin in which Steve Carrell is given a chest wax and screams through the whole thing. Laser hair removal is far, far from that. While it does give some patients a bit of discomfort, it’s fairly gentle and painless. Most men say that it feels like a rubber band snapping on their skin or a small bee sting, though intimate areas can be a bit more sensitive. It’s important to not wait too long between sessions—this will cut down on any pain. All patients, both men and women, agree that the very small amount of “pain” is worth it. Also, keep in mind that sessions are fairly quick!
2. Laser hair removal cuts down on body odor and itching.
Your excess body hair absorbs odors, and slows down the evaporation of sweat. This can cause you to smell “manly” or funky if you will. But by removing excess body hair, you’re also removing the source of some odor. Excess hair also can cause itching and irritation, especially during the summer months. But removing the hair—or even just thinning it—will get rid of that itchy feeling that occurs when you sweat.
3. You’ll need to shave before your laser hair removal session.
…As in, right before. You should shave the night before so that the laser can get to the hair follicle easily.
4. You can get laser hair removal performed anywhere on your body.
Some men want hair removed from their toes. Some want it removed from their throat. Some want it removed from their ears. Any hair on the body can be removed. But because the eyes are so sensitive to light, the hair around the eyes is not treated.
5. You shouldn’t tan before a laser hair removal session.
Melanin is the pigment that tans the skin and is produced when the is exposed to the sun. Melanin absorbs light energy. Because of this, tan skin is prone to being burned during laser hair removal. You should stay out of the sun for four weeks before laser treatment and two weeks after the treatment.
6. Laser hair removal is permanent after a few sessions.
For men with hairy backs or hairy chests that affect their self-confidence, laser hair removal is a miracle. Imagine, all that extra hair, gone for good! For most patients, it takes about 4-6 sessions to permanently get rid of all the unwanted hair. Some need less, and some need more, but that’s the average. How often you return for another session will depend on how fast your hair grows.
At Monterey Laser, our laser hair removal treatments are gentle and effective. We use FDA-approved Candela Lasers, which are renowned for being the best in the field for laser hair removal. If you’re in the Monterey area and are considering this quick and self-esteem-boosting treatment, call us at (831) 869-8865. We offer free consultations and hope to speak with you soon!
Keeping Summer Skin Smooth & Sexy with Laser Hair Removal
This Summer, and the Next… and the Next
If you’ve never tried laser hair removal, first of all—why not? If unwanted body or facial hair bothers you, you’re missing out on a miracle. Secondly, if you’ve never tried it, you’re most likely interested in the prospect of permanently hair-free legs. No more razor burn or cuts, no more stubble, no more painful waxing or creams that only partially work. Doesn’t that sound amazing? Especially for the summertime? If you’re like many of Monterey Laser & Skin Care’s clients, it does.
Laser hair removal has some truly amazing benefits. Women who have chosen this treatment love it and sing its praises. But there may be quite a bit you don’t know about laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal is gentler than waxing.
Waxing can be very painful, but the intensity of the laser can be adjusted depending on a patient’s skin sensitivity. Although the laser zaps are certainly noticeable, everyone agrees that it’s much less painful than waxing. You can use a numbing cream if you’re unsure.
Laser hair removal is more permanent than waxing.
After a patient’s first treatment, the hair on the surface falls off. The hair underneath will take 5-10 days to vacate the follicle. With each laser hair removal session, patients will notice less and less hair, and it will be finer. Most patients find that their hair is permanently removed in six treatments or less (although sometimes it takes more than eight treatments depending on your hair growth cycle).
Laser hair removal is best after puberty.
Laser hair removal isn’t recommended for anyone who may still be going through puberty, or the last stages of puberty. This is because during the teen years the body produces new hair and new follicles at a quicker pace, which means the treatment wouldn’t be as effective.
Laser hair removal is a (small) commitment.
Most patients need about 4-6 sessions of laser hair removal to achieve permanent results— although some require more than that, and some require less. The treatments are scheduled to match the hair growth cycle. Try not to miss appointments in order to get the best results.
Laser hair removal requires tan-free skin…and a shave.
Before your session, it’s important that you have shaved the area that’s being treated and that you haven’t been in a tanning bed or had sun exposure for a while. An unshaven area or sun exposure can cause a treatment to be less effective.
Laser hair removal is fast.
Treatments for laser hair removal typically take about 10 minutes to an hour, and can last longer if you’re having multiple areas treated. And the most popular areas to have treated? The arms, arm pits, bikini area, and legs.
Laser hair removal destroys hair follicles.
When the laser hits your skin, the pigment in your hair follicles will absorb the energy and are destroyed. Once a follicle is successfully destroyed, it won’t grow back.
At Monterey Laser, our laser hair removal treatments are gentle and effective. We use FDA-approved Candela lasers, which are known for being the best in the field for laser hair removal. If you’re in the Monterey area and are considering this quick and self-esteem-boosting treatment, call us at (831) 869-8865. We offer free consultations. Contact us today!