Medical Aesthetics Skin Care | Contact Us

Dr. Neil F. Haddock, M.D.
Diplomate American Board of Dermatology, Inc.

Medicine and Surgery of Diseases of the Skin

Spotlight on Products
and Services

PROLITE™ Hair Removal

What is PROLITE?

The PROLITE is a third generation of light based hair removal system. This exciting new Flourescent Technology incorporates the benefits of both laser and intense pulsed light in a single unit. The PROLITE offers non-invasive, safe and effective hair removal for most skin types and hair colors.

How does it work?

The PROLITE utilizes red light to target the melanin found naturally in the hair shaft and follicle. Clinical trials show that red light is selectively absorbed by the melanin. Each pulse of red light elevates the temperature within the hair shaft and follicle. Once the temperature reaches 70 degrees centigrade, proteins in cells denature, and active hair follicles are destroyed.

How many treatments are needed?

The number of treatments required varies, depending on the density and location of the hair growth. Approximately 30% of the body hair is in a growing phase at any time. The remainder is dormant and unable to absorb light. The PROLITE will remove 60-95% of the growing hair with each treatment. Extremely course and/or dense hair may require additional sessions.

How does it feel?

Most people experience minimal discomfort, feeling a slight tingling sensation during the treatment. A topical anesthetic may be applied prior to treatment to minimize the discomfort.

How long does a typical treatment session take?

The waveguide touching the skin measures 10 x 20 mm2. Each pulse occurs every 3 seconds. An area of unwanted facial hair may take as little as 30 seconds to treat, while a man's back or a woman's leg may take over an hour to complete.

Is hair color important?

In general, the darker the hair, the more effective the treatment. Blond hair may have a limited response to the treatment.

What about skin color?

Dark hair on light skin receives optimum results. Also, trials have shown that people with darker skin usually have a sufficient difference in pigmentation between the hair follicle and surrounding skin tissue for successful treatments.

Before and after 5 treatments

Before and after 6 treatments

Does hair thickness matter?

No. The PROLITE features a Balanced Light™ beam which ensures that each pulse is suitable for all grades of hair.

What does the treatment involve?

When you come for a PROLITE treatment, a member of the office staff will discuss with you how the PROLITE system operates and assess you skin type. A test patch will be performed to observe its effect on your skin.

A thin layer of topical anesthesic may be applied over the area to be treated. The waveguide is then placed upon your skin and you will experience a series of short light flashes. Treatment sessions are normally 8 weeks apart. You will observe a significant reduction of hair within 2-3 weeks after your second treatment.

Are there any side effects?

Some parts of the body are more sensitive than others and may redden or swell slightly after treatment. This condition should return to normal within a few hours. In extreme cases, slight blistering may occur. Ice or Aloe Vera may be applied if these conditions persist.

Which areas can be treated?

The PROLITE can be used to treat any area of the body. It is important to perform a test patch before proceeding with a full treatment.

Is there anything else I should be aware of?

Do not wax between treatments, although shaving is fine. Avoid exposure to the sun for at least 4 weeks before and after each treatment. Should you feel any discomfort during the session, please notify the staff immediately.

Dr. Neil F. Haddock, M.D.Diplomate American Board of Dermatology, Inc.