Laser

At Body Beautiful, we take pride in educating our patients with our Laser Treatment Definition Glossary. We realized our site is filled with words that may not be common for some. We have made a glossary (referral source) for you to utilize when you come across a word you may not know. Please take advantage of these educational before and after pictures/video and many other resources available on our site. If you have any question don’t hesitate to call 724 987 3221.

 

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Laser Treatment Definition Glossary

Ablation – Removal of material with energy via a laser that can evaporate, vaporize or melt.

Absorption – The act of the tissue absorbing the laser’s energy, causing a desired reaction within the tissue.

Acne – Skin condition in which sebum (oil) is overproduced and pores become clogged, creating inflamed pustules. Acne is treated frequently though photofacials (may be combined with Levulanic Acid),eMatrix Sublative, chemical peels, skin care products, and ultrasound facials.

Acne Discoloration – Legions on the face or body, usually brown or red, caused by picking or improper acne treatment.

Acne Light – Laser that is specifically used to eliminate acne at its source, deep inside the pore’s bacteria (may be referred to as Blue Light or Photofacial).

Acne Scars – Scars that appear as a result of acne healing. The four types of acne scarring include boxcar scars, ice pick scars, rolling scars, and hypertrophic scars. Scars are usually treated with 1540/1440 Fractional, eMatrix Sublative, chemical peels, skin care products, and microdermabrasion and deep cleansing facials.

Aesthetician or Esthetician – A trained and PA certified professional that is knowledgeable in the art and fields of beauty, exfoliations, general aesthetics, and cosmetics.

Age Spots – Brown spots (melanin) or blemishes that appear on the skin due to aging or sun damage. Melanin color may appear due to bodies natural healing response (such as cuts or scrapes)

Aiming Beam – Using a guiding light (for a non-invasive laser, surgery or other purposes).

Alpha Hydroxy Acid – An organic acid containing a hydroxyl group bonded to the common atom adjacent to the carboxylic acid group. Common forms are glycolic, lactic and alpha hydroxy acid. They are used in skincare products because they penetrate very well and have been used for decades for skin rejuvenation.

Anatomical Parts of Hair – Bulb, bulge, follicle, vascular supply and hair shaft.

Angioma (cherry, spider) – Also known as “capillary hemangioma.” Can be a tumor composed of a mass of tiny blood vessels, red in color, usually 2-5 mm in size and can be raised or flat.

ANSI (American National Standards Institute) – Nationally recognized group who establishes and determines standards for equipment use and safety.

Anti-Aging Product – helps prevent the signs of aging by combating the hands of time in many forms, such as via creams, laser treatments, cosmetic injectables, and other aesthetic procedures.

Anti-androgenic: (medicines that inhibit hair growth) spironolactone, Euflex, Androcur, and Vaniqa cream. These medicines might slightly reduce the pigment in hair roots and make laser treatment less efficient. The effects of these medications are temporary.

Argon Laser – a Gas laser that uses argon ions for its active medium, emitting green/blue visible light.

Articulated Arm – Laser beam delivery piece that consists of mirrors and jointed arms.

Aversion Response – The eyelid (blinking) or head movement that avoids a stimulant such as bright light or moisture.

Becker’s Nevus – Type of birthmark, similar to cafe au lait, but usually larger and more scarce. It’s typically located on the shoulder area.

Bikini Line – the area of pubic hair, usually that patients want to be removed, such as around the bathing suit or bikini area.

Birthmark – Concentrated blood vessels underneath the skin that form before birth. Body Beautiful treats most birthmarks including hemangiomas, congenital melanocytic nevus, port wine stains, Mongolian blue spots, cafe au lait, etc.

Birthmark Removal – Cosmetic treatment that effectively removes non-vascular birthmarks. For the best results, patients should receive 2-4 laser treatments.

Blackheads – Skin pores, usually on the face, that are clogged with dark debris.
Can usually be treated with Lamprobe, chemical peel, skincare products, extraction, microdermabrasion, ultrasound or deep cleansing facials.

Blink Reflex – See Aversion Response.

Body Sculpting:  a cosmetic alternative to liposuction body sculpting uses technology such as Coolsculpting to freeze subcutaneous fat by pulling it away from the body, isolating it and cooling down to freeze it away.

Botox – A cosmetic treatment that involves an injectable made with botulinum toxin for cosmetic or medical benefits: sweat glands, age lines, crow’s feet, wrinkles, rejuvenation around patient’s eyes and forehead. The botox typically lasts 3 – 4 months.

Brazilian Hair Removal – A Brazilian laser treatment is comprised of the entire area of pubic hair. You can choose to leave a strip of hair or other desired areas if you want.

Broken Blood Vessels – Injured blood vessels that appear like blue-purple bruises and are typically seen on thin or aged skin. Broken blood vessels can be treated with lasers or sclerotherapy.

Broken Capillaries – Red/pink blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface that emerge when the capillary excessively widens, tearing the muscle. Can be treated with our laser treatments.

Cafe’au lait – Type of birthmark that appears at birth and is light brown to tan.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser – Gas laser which uses carbon dioxide as an active medium.

Cellulite Deposits – Fibrous, lumpy tissue that creates dimples in the skin, usually on the hips, thighs, and buttocks and usually on women.

Cellulite – Irregular, patchy distribution of fat below the skin’s surface that causes a staggered, rough or dimpled appearance. Cellulite is one of our most popular skin conditions that treat with Lipo, body contouring and IR wraps.

Chemical Peels – A skin treatment that uses acids to remove the damaged facial skin layers and improves the appearance of dry skin, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne.

Chloasma/melasma – Discoloration on the face, usually light to medium brown, that is usually a side effect of pregnancy (aka “mask of pregnancy”).

Chromophore – Primarily most lasers target melanin, Melanin, naturally occurs (actually gives our skin and hair color). Lasers for hair removal selectively target 1 of 3 chromophores: Two types of melanin in the hair are pheomelanin (gives a blonde or red color to hair) or eumelanin (gives brown or black hair color) Carbon, can be introduced following waxing. Hemoglobin occurs naturally in our blood (gives red color).

Chronic Condition – Opposed to a short term condition, a chronic condition is a disease which extends for a longer amount of time.

Class of Lasers Defined – Class 1 has the lowest side effects but 5 are the most powerful laser classifications and can have the highest side effects, usually reserved for surgeries. We currently only have class I-IV.

Clinical Facials – Medical grade treatment for the face, usually performed by an esthetician.

Closed Installation – Any space that lasers cannot come in contact with during a laser treatment (eye protectors, pacemakers).

C02 Fractionated Laser – This laser is used for skin resurfacing to penetrate the skin and increase collagen production. It also helps to heal skin conditions including melasma, birthmarks, and wrinkles. More patients are preferring the Sublative treatments, due to less downtime.

Coherent – When every laser beam’s pulse is lined up.

Collagen – A protein in skin that creates elasticity and a youthful volume. As we age, the amount of collagen that our body produces significantly decreases, which causes wrinkles. Collagen can be increased through facial treatments, skin resurfacing and skin rejuvenation treatments.

Collagen Therapy – A therapeutic way of increasing collagen through facial treatments, skin resurfacing, skin rejuvenation treatments or injections of collagen underneath the skin to fill out wrinkles and lumps.

Complexion – A term that is used to describe the appearance of the skins color, texture and tone.

Congenital Nevi – These are brown/black moles present at birth and have an increased risk of Melanoma development. They’re typically found in the mouth, mucous membranes, arms, legs, palms or soles of the foot and can cover a very small space to an entire region of the body.

Congenital Vascular Malformation – A general term that’s used to describe a vascular lesion typically present at birth, such as hemangioma, port wine stains, and other venous malformations can be treated with 1064 laser.

Consultation – Meeting with a qualified technician, physician or doctor where treatments, procedures, goals and patient’s needs are discussed. Individually, the patient will be examined and matched with the best treatment option so their needs are met and questions are answered.

Continuous Mode – The duration of time that the laser is exposed to the patient, controlled by the hand or foot of the technician.

Controlled Area – Area on the skin where the laser’s energy is controlled.

CoolGlide – YAG Laser that’s used for Laser Hair Removal that can treat all complexions and skin types.

Cooling (as it pertains to treatments on the skin or Epidermis) – cooling allow for more fluences to be used and reduces your side-effects and pain. There are 4 versions of epidermal cooling most commonly used:
Air cooling method
Chilled gel (clear) on the skin or by applying a cold compress beforehand
Contact Cooling / Chilled Tip – through a window of chilled circulating water
Cryogen spritzer/spray – delivered immediately after a laser pulse

Corneal Shields – Protective shield that can be placed over the eyes during cosmetic treatments.

Crow’s Feet – Wrinkles around your eyes that are caused by strenuous smiling and/or squinting. Crow’s feet can be reduced and/or eliminated with Botox injections, facial rejuvenation treatments, laser skin resurfacing and skin care products.

CryoClear – An instrument used to remove skin tags, cherry angiomas, age spots, sun spots, etc. by freezing the lesion to promote smoother cosmetic appearance.

Crystal – Can be mined from the earth or rare imitations can be created synthetically (as they pertain to the laser industry). Sapphire – Ruby Red Laser & Nd Yag Laser are two crystalline materials used at the laser’s source.

Customized Facials – Combination of plant-based, all natural, topical ingredients that are applied to your face to treat skin conditions. Facials treat acne and are great for anti-aging, skin rejuvenation and moisturizing.

Day Spa – A facility that provides relaxing, pampering, exfoliation cosmetic services. Can be connected with medical spas, hotels, gyms, health clubs, etc. Services can last anywhere from one hour to an entire day.

DCD (Dynamic Cooling Device) – A cooling agent in the form of a cream or spray that is used on the skin before the laser treatment.

Delivery System – A method that technicians use to apply the laser’s energy to patients.

Depilatory Creams (Nair/Veet) – Chemicals that temporarily remove hair by dissolving it.

The depth of Focus – The distance from the laser to the skin.

Deep Pore Cleansing – A skin treatment that may include products to allow for a deeper concentration of pore cleansing and of the skin’s surface.

Deep Tissue Massage – A massage that focuses on the connective tissue by applying intense, slow pressure to deep muscle layers. Benefits include pain and stress-free relief can also improve posture and range of motion.

Dermatitis – Inflammation of the skin, can have several causes and appear in different forms such as red, itchy, rashes or swollen skin.

Dermis – The Dermis is the skin’s second layer beneath the epidermis, located above subcutaneous fat. The Dermis is comprised of hair follicles, collagen, sweat glands, lymph vessels, elastic fibers, blood vessels, and fibroblasts. It is responsible for the mechanical tightness of our skin and it is the place where our hair grows.

Destination Spa – Company that focuses exclusively on health enhancement, self-renewal, aesthetic and lifestyle improvements.

Detoxification (Aka “detox”) – A general term that describes unique treatments intended to cleanse the body of toxins, poisons or impurities.

Diode Laser (alexandrite crystal) – Lumenis lightsheer; also known as the “Cadillac” of hair reduction. It can also be used for age spots, brown spots or other blemishes. It’s the primary laser for hair removal for skin types 3 – 5.

Distance Gauge – The space in between the treatment site and the laser’s handpiece that provides the correct focal distance for treatment.

Dysport – An injectable protein that’s made from Bacterium Clostridium Botulinum for wrinkle treatment. It relaxes fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead. Botox is also used for wrinkles and fine lines.

Edema – Skin swelling caused by excess fluid, usually as a healing response.

Electrolysis – A cosmetic treatment that removes unwanted hair by streaming electric currents into the hair’s roots. Unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis works on all hair colors including blonde and gray, but it treats each hair follicle individually.

Endermologie – Treatment used for the reduction of cellulite that uses powerful vibration and suction to increase circulation and eliminate the appearance of fat deposits on the buttocks, lower abdomen and hips.

EMLA – A popular topical anesthetic cream commonly used in cosmetic procedures.

Energy (measured in Joules) – Expresses the output from pulsed lasers.

Epidermis – The top layer of skin that protects the Dermis layer. It’s made of mostly squamous cells, basal cells, keratinocytes, and melanocytes.

Epilation – The process of removing the hair’s roots, to shut down growth.

Erbium Laser – Reduces the appearance of dark circles and bags underneath eyes. Opposed to the Fraxel laser which is stronger, the Erbium only penetrates the delicate skin (first few layers) to increase collagen and reduce dark circles.

Erythema – Red skin caused by capillary dilation, can be a temporary side effect of laser hair removal.

Eyelash hypotrichosis – is another name for having inadequate fragile, thin, sparse or not enough eyelashes. Latisse a prescription procedure practiced to improve and grow eyelashes for people that want stronger, more dark, longer, thicker, and more full eyelashes. Following a few weeks, this extraordinary innovation makes them resemble as if you had magnificent extensions.

Exfoliation – A procedure that can either be used to remove ingrown hair, cysts or just the top layer of dead skin cells off of the face or body. Typically medical spas exfoliate with Ultrasound skin scrubbers, Microneedling, Peels, Microdermabrasion or Scrubs with sugar, salt, grape, mud or clay.

Extraction – The process of clearing pores from trained aesthetician (ingrown hair or clogged pore).

Facials – A beauty treatment to improve the appearance and texture of the face usually followed by an informative diagnostic consult about your specific personal needs.

Facial Enhancements – A cosmetic facial treatment that addresses cosmetic concerns (injections, surgery, facials, peels, laser treatments, etc.)

Facial Hair Removal – Cosmetic treatment that removes unwanted hair on the upper lip, neck, beard, and sideburns on women and men. This can be done through electrolysis or laser hair removal.

Facial Resurfacing – Cosmetic treatment that uses chemicals, lasers or instruments to strip layers of dead skin from your face, which then shows the rejuvenated skin layers beneath. It also helps prevent or combat dull skin, acne, pigmentation, wrinkles and fine lines.

Facial Veins – Blood vessels that are underneath the facial skin and can be degraded with sclerotherapy or laser vein removal.

Facial Fillers – Fillers are injectable treatments made from natural collagen and hyaluronic acid used to enhance volume, eliminate wrinkles, enhance lips and fill scar lines. We offer Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane and Radiesse fillers.

Fail Safe Interlock – When an interlock fails and causes the system to stop and go into safe mode.

Fascia – Similar to elastin and collagen, fascia is the connective tissue that connects bone to muscle in the body.

Female Facial Hair – This can be either hereditary or as a side effect of “hirsutism.” It can be removed through laser hair removal or electrolysis. One statistic shows that in the US alone, 42 percent of women remove undesirable facial hair every 6 months.

Fiber Optics – The use of thin fibers of glass to transmit light.

Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale – Medical scale that organizes the skin types based on genetics, sun exposure habits and reaction to the sun.

Flash Lamp – A tube filled with Xenon or Krypton that creates a powerful white light in short pulses.

Fluence – Important consideration in energy level that is measured in Joules.

Focusing Lens – A lens that’s used to focus the laser to a particular area.

Focus Lens Array – An aesthetic laser that improves skin discoloration, tone and texture using picoseconds to deliver microburst of energy. Laser treatments are clinically proven to improve acne scars, discolorations, skin texture and signs of aging with very minimal downtime (just a few hours).

Fraxel Laser – Unique laser that targets specific areas on the skin, leaving the skin surrounding the treated area undamaged. The Fraxel Laser treats wrinkles, pigmentation issues, and scars.

Freckles – Usually brown or tan, freckles are spots of melanin on the skin’s surface.

Freckle/Brown Spot Removal – Laser used to fade and eliminate concentrated pigment.

Frequency – Number of times a wave pulses per second.

Frown Lines – Created by facial movements such as squinting and frowning, these deep furrows that appear on the corners of the mouth can be treated with dermal injections and laser skin resurfacing. Also known as Marionette Lines.

Fuller Cheeks – Cosmetic treatment where a patient’s hollowed cheeks become more volumized with Juvederm Ultra Plus or Voluma injections, or another facial filler.

Fuller Lips – Cosmetic treatment where lips are injected with fillers or natural collagen (Juvederm or Restylane) to increase volume.

Glycolic Acid – the smallest a-hydroxy acid and a vital part of achieving healthy skin.

Hair Cycle – The three growth phases of hair, in order: Anagen, Catagen Telegen.

Hair Follicles – Tunnels of cells located in the Dermis. Hair (density) is created by clumping these cells together. These tunnels of cells are disarmed without any side effects during the process of laser hair removal.

Hemorrhage – Cut, broken, irritated or inflamed skin in the area that is to be treated, or active infection anywhere within the body. It is conceivable that laser-mediated vasodilation may worsen the hemorrhage.

Heat Sink – A tool used to soak up unwanted heat energy (dark, porous, towel or cover).

Hemangioma – A benign tumor that is created with blood vessels.

Herpes Simplex virus I or II – If hair removal is in the area of previous outbreaks, it is possible that the heat from the laser will cause a flare-up of the herpes virus, so they will need to take prescription antiviral medication for several days both before and after the treatment. If an outbreak is active it is important to reschedule.

Hertz (Hz) – The measurement an energy frequency.

Hirsutism – (The medical term for excessive body hair) can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Such conditions are generally hormone related, e.g. polycystic ovarian syndrome. The first port of call, if you have excessive body hair, should be to your General Practitioner, to discuss the problem and rule out any underlying health problems, which could be causing problems, such as female facial hair (usually around the mustache or beard area) that grows like men’s hair pattern. There are a lot of factors that contribute (genetics, hormones)

Hollow Cheeks – Condition describing the collagen and fat inside of the cheeks that may be a sign of aging. Lips can be re-volumized by adding injections or fillers around the mouth for a more youthful, radiant appearance.

Hormone Replacement Therapy – Medications that contain one or more of the female hormones, usually estrogen and are used to treat women with symptoms pertaining to amenorrhoea, hysterectomy, osteoporosis, menopause or signs of aging.

Hyperpigmentation – A common skin condition where patches of skin that appear darker in color than the surrounding skin. Can be caused by medications, genetics, scarring but usually, it is excess sun exposure.

Hypopigmentation – Loss of skin color in areas of skin that look like they are lacking pigment; can be caused by surgery, sun damage (even a delayed result years later), burns or skin cancer. It is caused by melanocyte and melanin depletion.

Hypotrichosis – Condition in which a person has abnormal hair patterns, usually resulting in a reduction or loss of hair. It usually occurs when vellus hair grows as opposed to terminal hair.

Incoherent – A white light that’s created from numerous wavelengths being present.

Inflammation/Inflammatory Response – A body tissue’s reaction to injury, infection or irritation that typically appears red, swollen, hot and possibly painful.

Infrared Radiation (IR) – Invisible electromagnetic radiation energy that exists between 700nm and 1mm.

Infrared Treatment – Uses infrared light to act like sunlight, without UV exposure. It is applied using lamps or through saunas or heat to relieve sore joints and muscles to remove the toxins from the body.

Intensity – The measurement of radiant energy.

Immune Suppressant Drugs – Laser Therapy is contra-indicated for patients on these drugs.

Jessner – A medium to deep peel that is designed to improve extensive damage of the skin resulting in a better outcome than an alpha-hydroxy peel could provide.

Joule (J/cm2) – Energy unit that describes the rate of the delivery of energy. (watt/second)

Jubila – An FDA approved antifungal medication used to treat nail fungus either on fingers or toes called onychomycosis. Jublia is a clear pale yellow solution that comes in a white and purple plastic bottle with a brush applicator. This prescription treatment is usually applied for 48 weeks until the new nail has fully grown in.

Juvederm – An injectable gel created with hyaluronic acid that eliminates wrinkles, thinned cheeks, and deep facial lines.

Kerydin (tavaborole) Topical Solution – This topical treatment is used to treat toenail onychomycosis or toenail fungus and is FDA approved.

Keloids – Mass of scar tissues that have developed outside of the original scar. Can be more prevalent when the bodies immune system is compromised such as an injury from a car accident, coma, flu, etc.

Keloid scarring – There is a higher danger of scarring from the treatments.

Kirby-Desai tattoo removal scale – Scale that measures the 6 factors that determine the number of laser treatments one needs to entirely remove a tattoo: skin type, color, size, layering or scarring of the tattoo, skin type, tattoo location.

KTP (Potassium Titanyl Phosphate) – A crystal that is used by physicians to change the wavelength of Nd YAG laser from infrared to green.

Large Pores – Skin condition where pores look oversized. The skin’s pores can be reduced through laser skin resurfacing and the application of the appropriate skincare (toner).

Laser – Light Intensification by Accelerated Emission of Radiation (acronym). The focused light (radiation) beam is an ocular cavity comprised of crystals, liquids, glass, dye or gas with mirrors on the edges. They work in ultraviolet, infrared and visible areas of the optical spectrum. We use multiple, different types of lasers: the continuous wave lasers (create continuous light beams), Q-stitched and pulsed lasers (create light in short pulses).

Laser Accessories – Accessories for lasers including Q-switches, optical components, Brewster windows, secondary gases and electronic shutters that are used for control treatment levels and energy.

Laser Circles – These are blemishes that can appear on treating tan skin (or bronzers) with lasers. If your skin is too tanned, we may have to wait until the tan fades to avoid the development of laser circles or reduce the risk of burned skin.

Laser Class – The Center for Devices and Radiological Health regulates laser safety and classifies the lasers in specific categories based on power and wavelength.

Laser Cosmetic Enhancement – Nonsurgical and non-invasive use of lasers to remove pigmentation, birthmarks, freckles, wrinkles, fine lines, crows feet, sun and age spots, spider and varicose veins, or to restore and smooth undesirable skin.

Laser Hair Removal – Cosmetic laser treatment that removes unwanted facial and body hair. Aesthetic lasers use a specific target specific chromophores (color) in the skin, usually melanin or blood. Lasers will damage chromophores by heating them selectively leaving surrounding tissue uninjured. When treating hair that’s unwanted,  melanin in the follicles is damaged resulting in the disruption of hair renewal. Our lasers (diode) are complemented with cooling tech or other pain reducing techniques which increase treatment efficiency and patient comfort.

Laser Parameters – Laser beam characteristics that include pulse duration, energy, firing rate, wavelength and spot size.

Laser Pulse – Eruption of laser energy that achieves the power to perform the desired result.

Laser Safety Officer (LSO) – A person that has the authority to enforce hazards pertaining to lasers and laser accessories.

Laser System – A collection of the correct laser accessories with a power supply.

Laser Vein Treatments – Laser treatment that removes spider veins and varicose veins on the face, legs, and chest.

Latisse – Cosmetic product that is used to lengthen, regrow and darken natural eyelashes with regular application. Latisse is FDA approved.

Lens – A laser accessory; a curved, transparent piece that is used to redirect light.

Lentigines – Small brown to tan epidermal areas that are a result of sun exposure.

Ligation – AKA vein stripping, ligation is surgical abscission of improperly functioning and deformed varicose veins on the legs.

Light – Visible spectrum to the human eye. Light is the dimension of electromagnetic radiation frequencies that is seen by the human eye or the range of a wavelength from 400 to 700 nm.

Limiting Aperture – The maximum area that can be used to regulate safety hazards.

Limiting Exposure Duration – A duration of exposure that is limited by either intention or design of the machine.

Lupus, diabetes or epilepsy – Any nervous disorder needs to be evaluated before laser treatment begins.

Lymphatic Drainage – Massage technique used to drain toxins and water and increase circulation from the lymphatic system by using wavelike movements on the neck, face and entire body. It’s used to reduce swelling, detoxify, relieve stress and pain.

Massage – Therapy used to manipulate the tissue to improve overall health, relieve tension, relax muscles and improve circulation.

Medical Spa (Medi-Spa, Med-Spa) – A facility that offers medical services administered or supervised by medical professionals that diagnose and treat cosmetic issues.

Medical Tourism – The practice of traveling outside of one’s home to a medical facility in order to find quality, less expensive health care services. Body Beautiful offers a Certified Laser School to anyone wishing to work in the cosmetic medical field. Click here for more information! http://www.livingbodybeautiful.com/training

Medium – Liquid, solid or gas substance that creates energy for the laser.

Melanin Pigment – A substance or pigment that gives color to the skin, which is created by organic epidermal cells or “melanocytes.” Moles and darker skin tones have more melanin in them.

Melanocytes – Specific epidermal cells which create melanin liable for the amount of color in your freckles, moles, birthmarks and overall skin. The lighter your skin, the less melanin; the darker your skin, the more melanin.

Melanocytic Nevi – Medium to large dark brown dermal blemishes that are typically the size of a dime and have a high risk for becoming cancerous.

Melanosomes – Organs containing melanin.

Melasma – Areas on the face with dark spots or hyperpigmentation as a result of hormones or sun damage.

Micro-needling – is a simple, safe, effective procedure of hollow or small solid needles that cause controlled therapeutic holes for skin rejuvenation and a growing list of applications.

Microdermabrasion – A procedure that uses a machine with a diamond tip or forced crystals to exfoliate and remove dead cells in the superficial layer of the skin. Typically this procedure is performed by a trained medical professional.

Microseconds – one-millionth of a second (Unit of measurement).

Milliseconds – one-thousandth of a second (Unit of measurement).

Mobile Spa – Spa setting with professional employees who travel to the client’s preferred locations for treatments.

Mode – Describes the operating process of the laser, such as pulsed, continuous, etc.

Mole Removal – Laser excision or surgical procedure used to remove a hyperpigmented, raised tissue (mole). Usually treated surgical or through a Hyfrecator or Lamprobe.

Monochromatic – Containing only one color.

Multimode – Having several modes of frequencies on anyone laser.

Multiple treatments – Countless Studies have proven that multiple treatments are more effective and better for long term results. Researchers suggest that patients spread their treatments out four to six weeks apart.

Nanometer – equal to one-billionth of a meter (Unit of measurement). It measures the wavelength of light.

Nanosecond – equal to one-billionth of a second (Unit of measurement). Typically associated with Q-switch lasers.

Nasolabial Folds – Wrinkles that accumulate around the mouth region from aging and facial expressions; aka smile or laugh lines.

Nd Yag Laser – Solid lasers that act as a medium to create 1064 nm wavelength. Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (named from Neodymium) is a synthetic crystal.

Neodymium (Nd) – Rare, active, silver-white active element that is used in Nd YAG lasers.

Nevus of Ota – Gray-blue facial sore around the cheek, temple and eye areas. This is most commonly seen in Asians.

Nominal Hazard Zone (NHZ) – Space between the level of scattered, direct or reflected radiation during operation.

Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance (NOHD) – The distance from the laser where the wavelength exposure falls below its limit.

Nutraceuticals – Chemical compounds found naturally in foods that prevent and treat diseases. These are also known as phytochemicals or functional foods. Body Beautiful carries physician grade vitamins and supplements.

Open Installation – A location on a patient where a laser will be performing a treatment.

Operation – Act of performing surgery or treatment on a patient.

Optical – The area of the electromagnetic spectrum that covers the area between visible and infrared system.

Optical Density – Refers to how resistive or dense something or someone is to light.

Optical Fiber – Containing quartz or another variation of optical material that can transmit light through reflections.

OSHA – Occupational Safety & Health Administration

Paradoxical hypertrichosis (and how it relates to laser treatments) – Growing a minor amount of more hair with Laser Hair Removal is a very rare reaction to treatment. We have seen it with only 4 patients, all of which we were able to find success. All were between skin types 2 – 4. Initial treatments, although safe and in proper starting range, we’re probably not strong enough (it’s similar to grow an immunity to antibiotics). This extra hair growth may or may not remain but dialing in corrected treatment should yield success. An experienced laser hair tech is required as you increase the intensity, the risk of discoloration or other side effect increases, but many helpful parameter techniques (advanced chilling, seasonal treating, timing hair growth cycles, etc…) can be used to remain safe.

Perifollicular Edema – Swelling caused by fluid assembling in the area where the hair begins to grow. Although rare, it can be a mild, short-term side effect of Laser Hair Removal. It usually disperses within a few hours.

Perlane – Facial filler made with hyaluronic acid that reduces fine lines and facial wrinkles in the cheek area. Botox is also used for wrinkles and fine lines.

Photocoagulation – Used to stop blood clots and bleeding. Photocoagulation involves the use of a laser beam to heat body tissue below vaporization temperatures.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) – Cosmetic treatment that wavelengths to react to light by creating different forms of oxygen to kill certain cells. Used to treat pre-cancerous cells, cancer, acne, rosacea, and other skin conditions.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) – Is a treatment using photosensitizing drugs and light therapy to kill cells. Also known as phototherapy, photoradiation or photochemotherapy. Used to treat acne.

Phototherapy (Photofacials) – Any treatment that uses light to treat facial or body skin conditions or cosmetic conditions.

Photo Rejuvenation – Laser treatments that provide the ultimate skin rejuvenation, including stimulating new collagen production, smooth wrinkles and eliminate age spots, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and rosacea.

Photosensitive Medications – Medications that can cause a reaction that is similar to a sunburn. Photosensitivity (sun sensitivity) is the inflammation of the skin activated by sunlight or medications. It causes redness which may look like a sunburn.

Photosensitivity – A substance that causes heightened sensitivity to light.

Photosensitizers – Medication or substance that heightens skin or eye sensitivity to radiation.

Photo-thermal – Transforming light’s energy into heat.

Picosecond – A unit of time equal to one-trillionth of a second.

Picosure – An aesthetic laser used to remove tattoos. The CynoSure PicoSure laser delivers short energy bursts to the skin in picoseconds. This laser is unique because it’s the only picosecond laser available on the market. The PicoSure is less painful for patients and results in fewer treatments (4-6 opposed to 9-16). It also offers a fast recovery time and is more effective in removing colors on tattoos such as purple, blue, green.

Pigmented Birthmark – Type of birthmark caused by increased melanocyte growth, or caused by cells that produce certain skin color. Cafe-au-lait spots, moles and Mongolian spots are the most common types of birthmarks.

Pores – A small opening in the surface of the skin where the body’s natural oil is released.

Port Wine Stain (PWS) – Type of birthmark that resembles a large, red-blue capillary on the upper torso or face. Also called “nevus flammeus.”

Post Inflammatory Pigmentation – Area of skin that is darkened or has an increase in pigment that can result as a side effect from laser treatment.

Postoperative – Referring to a after (post-surgical) a procedure.

Power – Energy delivered in an allotted amount of time. Measured in watts (Joules per second).

Power Density – Output per unit area (derived from a laser).

Preoperative – Referring to pre-surgical procedures.

PressureWave – A sound wave used to promote collagen, repair or healing response.

Pruritus – Intense skin itching and irritation.

Pseudo Folliculitis Barbae – Getting laser hair reduction can help this uncomfortable inflammation that you may experience from shaving. More commonly known as razor bumps, they usually appear on the face for men and legs for women. The pain is more severe on the face because of the sensitivity of the area. Many people who experience this condition resort to laser hair removal for a more permanent fix.

Pulse – A burst from the laser, reaching the highest peak powers of the CW output.

Pulse Duration or Pulse Length – The total time energy is delivered from a laser (fraction of second). Measured in milliseconds, nanoseconds or microseconds, it’s the time in which the pulsed/diode laser is turned on.

Pulsed Dye – A laser that creates light energy from an organic dye.

Pulsed Dye Laser – An acute light beam that diminishes dilated or visible capillaries which cause red spots, rosacea, and several other serious skin conditions.

Pulse Frequency (Hertz “Hz.”) – Speed/Rate that laser pulses are achieved. Communicated through pulses per fraction of a second and treats many hairs at once.

Pulsed Laser – Any laser that creates energy in the form of a pulse(s).

Pulse Mode – Laser mode where the beam is pulsing in fractions of a second.

Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF) or Rate – Number of laser pulses per second.

Pulse Repetition – Rate that the laser pulses, usually measured in Hertz (Hz).

Pulsed vs. Continuous-Wave Lasers – A laser that creates a short pulse of light, as opposed to a laser that generates continuous pulses.

Pulsewidth – It is an important consideration and has been researched that longer pulse width can be more effective with fewer side effects for dark skin tones/types.

Purpura – A blue, black or purple discoloration on the skin after a cosmetic laser treatment.

Q-Switch – A laser that uses energy to create short pulses with high amounts of energy with control. The control allows the technician to stop the “q-factor” by preventing lasting effects.

Radiant Energy (Q) – Electromagnetic waves in the form of energy. Expressed in Joules.

Radiation Therapy – Because it has been documented to have an effect on the human immune system, in patients taking immunosuppressant medications, the laser is not recommended at this time. Several studies have demonstrated the positive effects of different lasers counteracting radiation therapy nausea; however, more research is needed.

Radiesse – A dermal injectable gel created with calcium hydroxyapatite that eliminates wrinkles by stimulating the body’s natural production of collagen. Juvederm can also be used.

Razor bumps – Resulted from shaving, razor bumps occur from inflammation of hair follicles. See “Pseudo Folliculitis Barbae.”

Repetition rate – Number of pulses per second by a Diode/Q-switch laser, has a cumulative effect, based on thermal relaxation time. Timing 1-3 pulses at the same target, with a specific delay, can cause improved results in treating the area.

Resonator – Area where the laser medium is kept and the energy is created. Also known as a “laser tube” or “laser head.”

Resort Spa – A spa that offers services at a vacation destination such as massage, golf, skiing, water sports, tennis cosmetic treatments or surgeries.

Restylane – Dermal filler based with hyaluronic acid that removes facial wrinkles and adds volume to lips or cheeks. Restylane Silk, Restylane Lyft are similar products with different thicknesses.

RF Energy – Sound waves that are used with Viora Reaction which heats the deep skin layers that tighten the collagen production in the neck, face, and body.

Rhytids – Facial wrinkles that are a result of accumulative photodamage.

Rosacea – a Skin condition that causes reddening and rashes to appear on the nose, chin, forehead, and cheeks. Laser treatments can be helpful for people with rosacea.

Ruby Laser – One of the first lasers that use sapphire crystals with small amounts of chromium oxide.

Sagging Skin – Loosened skin that develops if the skin is stretched.

Salicylic – Anti-inflammatory acid used to treat acne and skin problems like psoriasis and warts.

Scarring – A skin condition that’s a result of healing skin. Scar tissue is first produced, which covers a wound, and then scarring appears for approximately 1 – 3 months.

Sclerotherapy – Chemical injection into a vein to reduce or eliminate the vessel.

Sculptra – a non-surgical, natural treatment to restore collagen, or lost volume with age to create a younger look. Sculptra is a substance that occurs naturally in the body, it is fully absorbed and no occurrence of allergic reaction has been reported.

Vein Reduction or Elimination Technique – A treatment for the reduction or elimination of unsightly veins, where sclerosing carriers are injected into unwanted vessels on the legs and face.

Scanning Laser – Laser that has varying directions with regards to time and stationary frames.

Scar – Mark on the skin as a result of a healing wound, sore or burn.

Seborrheic Keratosis – A pigmented blemish, typically brown, black or tan on the chest, face or back of elderly people. It usually has an oily-wart appearance.

Selective Photothermolysis – theory on which lasers are designed which states that one chooses a laser wavelength that a target absorbs strongly while surrounding structures do not and having an exposure time less than the thermal relaxation time of the target. Hence, reaching desired results.

Selectivity – The act of absorbing a precise target.

Semiconductor Laser – Laser that creates its energy from semiconductor materials. Also, see Diode Laser.

Short-term Condition – A condition which typically disperses on its own.

SilkPeel Rejuvenation Treatment – Cosmetic procedure that softens and smoothes out the skin, and also eliminates the dead, outer skin layer. This procedure is non-surgical and requires little to no downtime.

SkinMedica – A medical grade product line by Allergan the makers of Botox. We exclusively use SkinMedica for our top of the line clinical facials.

Spa – The International Spa Association (ISPA) defines “spa” as: “Spas are devoted to enhancing overall well-being through a variety of professional services that encourage the renewal of mind, body, and spirit.”

Spider Hemangioma – Abnormal abundance of blood vessels or capillaries on the skin that appears as a raised red dot.

Spider Veins – Thin, small, red-blue dilated blood vessels that are beneath the skin.

Spot size – The spot size or laser beam width affects the success of the procedure. It’s said that the best beam is approximately 4 times as wide as the target area. We have MANY options to choose from, so our Lasers can have a square, rectangle or round spot size (to BEST CONTOUR to the sensitive areas we treat).

Stop Smoking Laser: a treatment using traditional acupuncture and the laser technology light therapy that promotes a nonsmoker lifestyle.

Stretch Marks – a Skin condition which develops from extensive stretching of the skin from either pregnancy, muscle gain, weight gain or loss, etc. We can dramatically reduce the appearance of stretch marks through our laser skin resurfacing.

Sublative – Fractionated (or fractional) bi-polar radio frequency technology that places heat energy effectively into the upper dermis where it produces and increases elastin and collagen with minimal epidermal disruption

Sublime – Treatment consists of elōs combination of effective levels of bi-polar radio frequency, laser, infrared, and visible light energies to reach deep dermal layers of skin and stimulate collagen growth.

Supplements – Products in one’s diet that enhances a healthy diet and exercise.

Tanning products (or fake tanning products) – Such as self-tanners, bronzers or other makeup (foundation) on the area to be treated can cause burning.

Target – Area of skin that the laser is directed towards.

Tattoo – The injection of colored pigments in the skin with a specialized needle, usually representing a pattern or photo.

Tattoo Removal – Cosmetic laser procedure that erases all areas and colors of tattoo ink from the skin.

Telangiectasia/Telangiectasias – Dilution of visible veins or capillaries, aka spider veins.

Terminal Hair – Pigmented, long, unwanted hairs that are found on the arms, legs, torso, scalp, pubic region, beard, face, and underarms. For example, women may have coarse hair on their face or men may have dark hair on their chest. The timing of treatment is important because of the 3 stages of hair growth, it works best when they are in this stage.

Thermal Injury – Damaged tissue from either a photothermal reaction or heightened heat source.

Thermal Relaxation Time (TRT) – Time needed to absorb heat into a laser pulse.

Thyroid Gland – While research results have been at odds, if current problems are present, the laser should not be used over the thyroid gland.

Toner – an astringent liquid applied to the skin to reduce oiliness and improve its condition.

Topical Anesthesia – An anesthetic substance that is used on the skin (gel, liquid or cream).

Treatment Oversympathetic Ganglia – The Cardiac Region and Vagus Nerves in patients with heart disease are not recommended. Laser therapy may significantly alter the neural function and is thus contra-indicated over these regions in patients with heart disease.

Tria or No No Laser Hair Removal – FDA approved low-powered laser for hair removal made for home use. This device can only be used on large areas and takes an ample amount of time.

Trigger Point – Muscular stress in an isolated area that can cause aching or cramping. The trigger point(s) can be painlessly and quickly relieved through our K-Laser.

Tunable Dye Laser – Laser that works through a medium filled with liquid dye, which is pulsed by a separate laser that creates streaming colors.

Ulceration – An eroded section on the skin.

Ultrasound – Spa treatment that uses sound waves to promote rejuvenation by causing friction underneath the skin’s surface.

Ultrasonic Cavitation: ultrasound frequency a non-invasive procedure for the purpose of removing fat from an area.

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation – Part of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum in which the wavelengths are in between visible violet light and soft x-ray light.

Vaniqa – Prescription Cream for women to slow down facial hair growth. We do not suggest this method as laser hair removal is quicker and a more permanent solution.

Vaporization – The act of converting a liquid or solid into a vapor substance.

VBeam Perfecta – Type of laser that is used to eliminate small, undesirable veins on the body or face due to age and/or Rosacea. It can also be used to erase acne, freckles, age spots, and psoriasis.

Varicose Veins – are the more serious of the two and lead to surgery more often. Both conditions can escalate from a mild to severe case. Varicose veins are large bulging and twisted veins that are dark purple or blue. They typically affect the leg area and are more common in women than men. People that suffer from spider veins have similar contributing factors. Genetics and the fact that at different times during a person’s life, such as puberty and menopause, cause an increase in the production of hormones. This can result in a weakening of the vein walls. As you become older, the valves in the vein walls begin to fail, resulting in the veins stretching and breaking. Eventually, spider veins appear. Treatment for varicose veins can be done through sclerotherapy or surgical vein stripping.

Vein Stripping – See “ligation.”

Vein Treatments – Cosmetic medical treatment that eliminates undesirable blood vessels on the legs or faces with a laser.

Vellus Hair – Hair that is soft, short, fine and non-colored “peach fuzz” which cannot be treated as well by lasers.

Visible Radiation Light – Frequently used when describing wavelengths that exist between 400nm and 700nm, visible radiation light is electromagnetic radiation that can be seen through the human eye.

Vitamins – supplements used to fulfill dietary needs.

Wart – A small, crass, hard area of skin that is caused by an infection. It typically has a cauliflower-like the texture and may hurt and/or itch.

Wavelength – Distance between 2 continuous crests on a light wave and determines the color.

Waxing – Hair removal process that involves the application of warm wax with a strip of cloth, then quickly removed from the skin to remove unwanted hair.

Wrinkle Treatments – Cosmetic treatments used to eliminate facial wrinkles. Our most common wrinkle treatments are Botox, Juvederm, Laser Skin Resurfacing and Chemical Peels.

Wrinkles – Folds or creases on the skin caused by skin elasticity and a decrease of collagen. Typically found in men and women ages 30 and older.

White Light – Light that seems colorless, for example, light from a spotlight, flashlight or the sun. White light consists of spectrums that come from the area of visible wavelength.

Wheal – Swollen skin that has ridged and circular characteristics.

Window – Opening fitted with glass that emits light on or through the optical system.

Yag 1064nm Laser – Laser used for dark brown and black thick hair and is the most preferred laser wavelength for darker skin types. Ablation – Removal of material with energy via a laser that can evaporate, vaporize or melt.

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