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    For millions of women and men who deal almost daily with the task of removing unwanted hair, relief is on the way. ThermoLase Corporation of San Diego, California has developed and is marketing a unique patented process called SoftLightSM. The low-energy laser offers advantages over conventional methods of hair removal such as electrolysis, shaving, depilatories and creams.

The SoftLight system works in conjunction with a specially formulated topical lotion that enhances penetrability of the laser light to remove hair from the upper lip, underarms, legs, bikini line, chest, back or other areas of the body. For years, dermatologists have been using similar lasers, at higher energy levels, to remove birthmarks and tattoos.

FDA Clearance

Following extensive clinical trials, the SoftLight system was reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and approved for commercial marketing in April 1995. It is the first laser to be cleared by the FDA as safe and effective for hair removal.

The SoftLight process is now being offered by ThermoLase's chain of SpaThira salons in major cities. It's also available through a growing number of leading dermatologists and plastiC surgeons throughout the United States selected by the company to license the process.

Advantages Over Electrolysis

The quick, virtually painless SoftLight procedure is dramatically different from electrolysis, currently the leading long-term hair removal system. During electrolysis, a needle is inserted into each follicle to heat it and destroy its ability to grow hair. This treatment is painful, and typically requires months and years of regular visits--even of small skin areas like the upper lip. By contrast, the SoftLight laser treatment "scans" the skin rather than treating one hair at a time, making it possible to cover large areas quickly, such as the legs and back, and with far less pain and discomfort.

"Long-term hair removal has always been associated with time, pain and expense, especially among the millions of women around the world who turn every year to electrolysis," says John Hansen, president of ThermoLase. "We expect the distinct advantages of SoftLight will attract many people who currently use electrolysis, as well as those who shave, wax, use topical creams and other less effective methods."

Proven Effectiveness