FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The MediLux system is designed to address multiple cosmetic and dermatological conditions, such as:

• Removal of unwanted hair
• Clearance of benign pigmented lesions
• Clearance of vascular lesions

Any cosmetic or dermatological skin condition must be correctly diagnosed by our Dermatologist, Dr. Jerome Africk, or another licensed physician and recommended for treatment prior to the initiation of treatment with the MediLux. The light is absorbed in hemoglobin, melanin, and other chromophores. Therefore it is important to assess the content of the melanin in the epidermis to determine your skin type to insure proper treatment setting selections and avoid unnecessary damage of the epidermis.

Will sun exposure affect treatment results?

Yes, it is very important that you restrict sun exposure for a month prior to treatments. Protected sun exposure means wearing of protective clothing or use of a SPF 30 or greater sunscreen. If you have had unprotected sun exposure in the areas to be treated in the last 4 weeks, you must notify your treatment provider. Sun exposure prior to treatment increases the chance of skin color changes and development of new lesions.

What about tanning creams and tanning beds?

Discontinue the use of self tanning creams, tanning beds, and any sun tanning methods 4 weeks before and throughout the treatment course and 4 – 6 weeks after for best results. Always use a SPF 30 on sun exposed areas or areas to be treated, reapply every 2 hours throughout the day, and wear protective, light-occluding hats and clothing.

Can I utilize any of these treatments if I am pregnant?

If you are pregnant, you should not have any treatments with light based devises. Although there is no evidence at this time of fetal harm from light-based system, the results of the treatment may be erratic and unreliable due to fluctuations in hormonal levels and physiological conditions. At this time, we cannot offer you any of these services if you are pregnant.

Can some hormonal conditions exclude me as a consumer?

Many people with menstrual dysfunction or if you have been known to have hyperandrogenism (elevated androgen levels) you should see an endocrinologist for evaluation and possible medical treatment. You may tend to have hirsutism (excess hairiness) secondary to a disease process that may respond to proper medical treatment.

Can I still pluck or wax prior to treatments for hair removal?

Any use of mechanical epilation including: plucking, waxing, tweezing, electrolysis, and sugaring should be stopped no less than 6 weeks prior to treatment. It is best to shave or use products such as Nair during the course of treatment. Notify us if you are seeking hair removal and have used mechanical epilation method less than 6 weeks.

Will an infection exclude me from treatment?

Active infections and immunosuppression compromise the healing ability of the body. If you currently have an active infection, your treatment will be postponed until the infection is cleared.

Can medications interfere with treatment?

ABSOLUTELY! Both prescription and non-prescription - Be sure to inform us of herbal and natural remedies prior to treatment as well for some of them may cause photosensitivity. You should not be taking Accutane, Anti-coagulants, or St. John’s Wort. You will be excluded from treatments with a light based devise if you have taken Accutane within the preceding 6 months. Accutane changes the underlying structure of the skin, which may cause unreliable results. It might also increase skin sensitivity to light. Although Tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova) use in the area to be treated is not absolutely contraindicated, it is however, known to make skin more sensitive and prone to exfoliation. It is advised to discontinue use of tretinoin for the course of treatment. You should discontinue use of exfoliating creams such as Retin-A and other skin exfoliating products 2 weeks prior to and during the entire course of treatment.

Could this scar me?

Although scarring is rare, picking or pulling off scabs or crusting can result in scarring. For this reason, it is recommended to exclude yourself from treatment if you have a known tendency to form keloid or hypertrophic scars.

I have a history of Herpes, can I still be treated?

Yes, however you must inform us prior to treatment if you have any history of outbreaks particularly within the treatment area, as well as consult with your Primary Care Physician for medical evaluation and possible prophylactic antiviral therapy prior to treatment. We can provide this for you during your initial consultation if needed. We cannot render treatment if an active outbreak is present. Treatment will only be performed on intact, healthy skin.

Are there any other medical conditions to be concerned about?

Flashing lights may trigger a seizure. If you have a history of seizures, or are taking an anti-seizure medication you should not have treatments with a light based devise. The laser light therapy will not be used on these patients. You should also confirm with us any allergies you may have to medications, latex, foods, or other substances so that these issues can be addressed.

Does it hurt?

Tremendous improvements have been made to reduce pain associated with intense pulsed laser light therapies including a reduction of pain however, some people are more sensitive and may require topical anesthetic which may be obtained at the clinic.

Will it work on grey or silver hair?

Unfortunately, it will not work on any grey, silver, or white hair. The light focuses on pigment, in this case melanin in the hair shaft. These hair colors are absent in melanin. The laser does not recognize it, and therefore cannot successfully work to remove hair.