The Lumenis LightSheer®

In each edition, Modern Aesthetics® asks top cosmetic physicians about the newest devices in their practices. This month, DORIS DAY, MD, a dermatologist in private practice in New York City and a Clinical Associate Professor in the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at NYU Langone discusses how the LUMENIS LIGHTSHEER® has re-invigorated her laser hair removal practice and improved her ability to treat darker skin patients.

What is LightSheer?

“Lumenis' LightSheer is a family of laser hair removal systems that includes diode laser technology for effective and safe hair removal. I have been using the technology for nearly a decade and with the newer models I am now able to perform hair removal procedures with a shortened treatment time and in many cases there is virtually no pain. It still takes a series of treatments and is ideal for those who have darker hair and lighter skin but with the diode technology I'm able to treat a broader range of skin types than with other platforms.”

How are you using it in practice?

“For the past 20 years, laser hair removal has emerged as a popular method for permanent hair removal. In fact, according to a report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), from 2000 to 2015 the number of laser hair removal procedures has increased by 52 percent. Patients often start by requesting it for smaller areas, such as the bikini. They end up doing other body parts when they see how fast and easy it is and that it really doesn't hurt compared to other treatments they've tried. I don't advertise in my practice so I rely on patient referrals and it's extremely high for this treatment.

Now with LightSheer technology, I am able to conduct procedures that are quicker, more effective and deliver outstanding results for my patients. With shorter, more effective and enhanced outcomes, so far there have been no drawbacks to LightSheer technology in my experience.”

What benefits have you seen since incorporating the device?

“Since the introduction of laser hair removal technology, it has been considered a challenge for physicians to treat patients with darker skin types. Using LightSheer provides me and my practice with a laser hair removal solution to treat the widest range of skin types, including darker skin. I am able to tailor laser hair removal to each of my patients and their needs.

With the LightSheer high-speed hand piece featuring integrated vacuum-assisted technology, I am able to conduct shorter treatments with the same positive outcomes as with traditional ChillTip technology. Patients are very comfortable during the treatments and are very happy with the results, after a few short sessions they enjoy a new dimension of confidence. All products within the LightSheer family of systems have a very quick learning curve, especially for any physician who has had experience with laser hair removal.”

Any patient selection tips to share?

“In the past, depending on the patient's skin and hair color and type, there were different laser hair removal approaches. With LightSheer, we are able to treat the complete range of skin types including dark skin—a patient type we were unable to successfully treat before.”