Does laser hair removal work on blonde hair?

It can. Results depend on the amount of pigment in the hair root. Our providers can assess a few tweezed hairs against white paper to confirm whether there is enough pigment for treatment.

Is laser hair removal effective on blonde hair?

When the root contains some pigment, shorter pulse, high-energy lasers can effectively target follicles while protecting surrounding skin. Many of our blonde-haired clients report long-lasting reduction.

What is the best laser hair removal for blonde hair?

The most effective approach is a clinic with multiple true lasers (not IPL/BBL) and variable settings. For lighter hair and lighter skin, devices with shorter, more powerful pulses are typically preferred.

Can you get laser hair removal with blonde hair?

Yes—if the follicle has sufficient pigment. We offer a complimentary consultation to evaluate hair color and density and recommend a safe, effective plan.

Does laser hair removal work for light hair?

Often, yes. Light hair with some pigment in the root responds best to true lasers with high peak energy and brief pulse widths, selected to match your skin type.

Are IPL or BBL good for blonde hair removal?

IPL and BBL are light sources, not lasers. They lack a single target (chromophore) and are generally less effective for blonde hair compared to medical-grade lasers.

Do at-home 'laser' devices work on blonde hair?

Most home devices are not true lasers and typically provide limited results, especially on blonde hair. Professional treatment allows for precise settings and stronger results.

Will laser hair removal work on grey or white hair?

No. Grey and white hairs lack pigment in the follicle, so lasers cannot effectively target them. Starting treatment before hair turns grey offers the best chance of success.

What areas respond best for blondes (legs, bikini, face)?

Areas with darker roots—such as bikini—often respond very well. On legs, arms, or face, fine vellus hairs may persist, but most clients see significant reduction of pigmented hairs.

Radiofrequency Microneedling on Face

Q: Can laser hair removal work for blonde hair?

Yes. With the correct medical-grade laser and settings, many people with blonde hair can achieve effective hair reduction. At Blue Water Spa, we evaluate the hair root for pigment and select a laser and pulse width appropriate for lighter hair.

Posted on November 7, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

RF Microneedling

We vow to never succumb to peer pressure. At Blue Water Spa, we’ve spent years educating our community on the unnecessary risks of RF Microneedling.

Blue Water Spa in Raleigh, NC has been recognized as Best Medical Spa in America by American Spa Magazine. Blue Water Spa is owned and operated by Michael Law MD. voted best plastic surgeon in NC. He received his plastic surgery training from the University of Southern California (USC) which is rated the number one plastic surgery residency training program in the United States by the Plastic Surgery Research Council. His training includes 10 years of formal surgical training post medical school, and a prestigious plastic surgery fellowship.

A Medical Spa should be in a medical environment with a Medical Director onsite or nearby. The responsibility of the Medical Director is to create safe and consistent protocols, to oversee training, to review results and to be available to both the medical professionals they oversee, but also the patients’ receiving treatments in their medical practice.. When aesthetic and medical professionals are well-trained, and when the best technology and protocols are employed, the chance of complication is minimal. Plastic surgeons have unique training in that their years of formal surgical training encompasses a deep understanding of the vascularity, nerves and muscles of the face. At Blue Water Spa, Dr. Law is very involved in training and the nurse injectors may have a chance to regularly observe facial surgery and literally see under the skin when facelifts, facial fat grafting, or other facial surgery is being performed.

At Blue Water Spa, like other top medical spas, the aesthetic ideal has always been a natural look that does not appear “done” with a goal to make each guest look like the best version of themself and not to look like that have had work done.

What you won’t find in most of the top medical spas are fleeting trends or “cash grabs”. Even the most accomplished and well-trained surgeons do not work alone. They rely on a team of medical experts to provide safe outcomes for their patients. Look for a team of experts when seeking aesthetic services.

Facial Balancing

Posted on October 27, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

New Approach To Facial Aesthetic

The concept of facial balancing is an approach to facial aesthetics that focuses on creating harmony and balance in facial appearance, and it describes exactly what we have been doing at Blue Water Spa for over twenty years. The goal is to create enhancements in facial proportions, often ones that are relatively subtle, that combine to make a face appear more youthful and appealing.

Facial balancing requires a thoughtful and systematic approach to facial assessment for the planning of aesthetic treatments. Too many think of facial balancing as over-filling the face, when in fact, facial balancing, when performed;with expertise, should be undetectable.

The initial assessment for facial balancing treatment planning looks at the face as a whole, and then looks at the degree to which the upper (forehead and eyes), middle (midface and cheeks) and lower face (mouth, chin and jawline) are in balance and harmony with each other. For example, the midface may be less prominent compared to the brows and jawline, and expansion of the midface by placement of filler can create a greater sense of harmony.

Facial balancing looks not only at the face as a whole, but also at the proportions within each facial area. For example, the temples or the brow/upper lid junction may be hollow, making otherwise youthful-appearing eyes seem older. Expanding these areas rejuvenates the eye area in a way that is both subtle and dramatic.

The upper lip may seem thin and lifeless compared to a full lower lip, and conservatively expanding the upper lip volume with filler and neuromodulator injection can create aesthetically ideal lip harmony that did not exist before. No one is going to specifically recognize that a person has had volume added to their upper lip with filler and a lip flip with neuromodulator, like Botox or Dysport, or that they have had volume added to their temples or their brow/upper lid junction with structural fat grafting. But they will recognize that the mouth area and the eye area are more alluring and youthful-appearing, or that the face as a whole has a more harmonious and therefore more aesthetically ideal appearance.

Both genetics and the aging process can contribute to a reduced sense of balance and harmony in the face. A genetically less prominent chin can make the lower third of the face seem overpowered by the middle and upper thirds of the face, and strategic placement of filler can enhance jawline and chin projection which allows the lower face to better match the midface and eye area.

Some changes might be to restore a more youthful look, like softening lines on the forehead or addressing marionette lines, aka DAO’s that pull down;on the sides of the mouth. Both of these changes, when performed by an injector with true expertise can make a beautiful and profound result with the face looking happier and kinder. Too much, or performed incorrectly, people can look; frozen or just weird.;

Aging changes that reduce facial harmony are related to both changes in volume and loss of tone in the skin and subcutaneous soft tissues. The less mobile upper cheek fat pads typically lose volume over time, while the more mobile lower cheek fat pads increase in volume over time. Mild to moderate changes in these volume relationships can be changed in a positive way by a skilled nurse injector, while more advanced aging changes generally require a surgical approach to achieve facial balancing.

Facial balancing can be accomplished both in the medical spa treatment room and in the plastic surgeon’s operating room. A skilled aesthetics provider will be able to let you know what can be accomplished with injectables and associated aesthetic treatments, and what requires surgical treatment in the OR. Some mildly ‘weak’ chins can be expanded with filler, while others may require placement of a chin implant to create a more balanced facial appearance.

There are great advantages to receiving your facial balancing care in a plastic surgery medical spa. The nurse practitioners and aesthetic professionals who provide your non-surgical treatments are supervised by a board-certified plastic surgeon who is on site and provides their training. They learn facial assessment from an experienced surgeon and observe the surgeon performing surgical facial balancing procedures in the operating room. Additionally, your nurse injector will understand very clearly what they can accomplish with non-surgical treatment, and what can be accomplished by surgical treatment with their supervising plastic surgeon.

The goal of facial balancing is not to make you look like someone else. The goal is to create more balanced and harmonious facial proportions, which result in a refreshed and more youthful-appearing version of you.

Be careful with too much filler in the chin or lower face. It may look fine temporarily, but too much filler in the lower face can make the lower face look heavy and can contribute to an appearance that makes one look older. In time it can actually contribute to more jowls.; Too much filler in the chin may cause the chin to droop and to have a ‘witch-like appearance.

What to look for when selecting a medical professional to perform facial balancing

1) Are they a plastic surgeon, or do they work with a plastic surgeon who provides training

2) Look for a medical professional who will go slowly and will not overfill

3) Are they proficient with all fillers and biostimulators including Hyauluronic acid products like Juvederm, Resylane and RHA products, and biostimulators like Sculptra, PRF and PRF EZGel.

4) Are they proficient with the use of both cannulas and needles?

5) What is their specific protocol in case of an emergency or undesired result?

6) Do you have photos to show of the work you have performed yourself and work that your colleagues have performed?

If you feel pressure of any kind to get a treatment on the spot, or to get more than makes you comfortable, leave. An excellent medical provider will want to provide

Facial Balancing Review

“I went to Blue Water Spa for facial balancing. At first, I thought I would need surgery. But the nurse injectors are amazing and provided me with the change I wanted! They added a little Botox to lift my brows, a bit of Sculptra to my hollow areas of my temples. Then some PRF EZ gel for under the eyes and a bit of filler for my cheeks. They told ;me to wait on the jawline and even the lips.Instead of lip;filler, they used Botox for the lines that pulled the corner of my lips down. I’m so glad I listened and did not; do too; much. The transformation is incredible but totally natural looking. I had zero bruising and only a little swelling for a day under the eyes. My friends and family have asked about everything from my hair to teeth whitening. I look amazing but I don’t look like I’ve had injections. I actually told a few people and they couldn’t believe how great and natural I look”

Do home laser hair removal systems work

Posted on September 11, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

Home Laser Hair Removal

In a word, no. First, these devices are not lasers at all. Medical lasers are not only extremely powerful and expensive. But without proper eye protection, eye damage could take place. At Blue Water Spa and Blue Water Plastic Surgery Partners, the lasers for hair removal have been evaluated as most powerful and safest in peer reviewed medical journals.

There are actually cases of people ending up with MORE hair following home laser hair removal than they had before. How could that happen? This is a phenomenon called paradoxical hair growth. Basically instead of having hair destroyed at the root, the home device can stimulate new hair growth because the device is not powerful enough to destroy the root of the hair, and instead, the hair follicles are stimulated. This can happen with anyone. But this phenomenon is most often observed in people with darker skin tones. It is also commonly observed in the face, areas and the jawline. Individuals with hormonal sensitivity issues like PCOS, polycystic ovarian syndrome seem especially at-risk for additional hair growth following treatment with these devices.

Paradoxical hair growth is most often observed in people who have used at-home laser hair removal systems. Bu it has also been observed in people who have been treated with lasers that heat the skin and tissues., but that do not have significant power to target the root of the hair and provide sufficient energy to the root of the hair for it to be disabled.

One reason for this issue might be that very few lasers are both safe and effective for dark skin. Laser hair removal for dark skin requires a specialized laser that is both very powerful and precise. The laser must have a long pulse with a very specific target. The lasers used at Blue Water Spa / Blue Water Plastic Surgery have a very long pulse. Therefore, these lasers will bypass the surface of the skin, even in people with very dark complexions. The laser energy with then be absorbed by the root of the hair which will disable the hair follicle, leaving the skin smooth. Because the laser energy is not absorbed by the skins’ surface, no damage will occur on the surface of the skin, but treatments will successfully eliminate unwanted hair.

If you are looking for laser hair removal, look for a medical facility owned and operated by a board-certified plastic surgeon where lasers are operated by medical professionals. At Blue Water Spa, a true medical spa owned and operated by board-certified plastic surgeon Michael law, safety, patient comfort and consistently excellent results are our priority.

Then and Now: 14 Years After Our Medical Spa Award

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

In 2011, Blue Water Spa was named the Southeast Medical Spa of the Year by LNE & Spa Magazine. At the time, I wasn’t where I am today, I was still early in my journey, but I remember the energy that award brought to our team. Even then, it was clear that Blue Water Spa wasn’t just another medical spa. It was something special a place where medical excellence met personalized care, and where results and experience were treated with equal importance.

Looking back on that recognition now, 14 years later, I feel something deeper than just pride. I feel grounded. Settled. Confident in the skin I’m in not just personally, but professionally.

So much has changed since then. The treatments have evolved. The technology is faster, smarter, and more refined. The aesthetics industry itself has grown in ways we couldn’t have imagined in 2011. And Blue Water Spa has grown with it. But what hasn’t changed and what I see and feel every single day is the heart behind it all.

We’re still owned and operated by Dr. Michael Law and Kile Law, and we still offer the full spectrum of medical and spa treatments. We continue to lead in neuromodulator and regenerative treatments in the Raleigh area, and we’re proud to serve a wide, inclusive clientele including more men than ever before. But more than any service we offer, what sets us apart is the care. The safety. The trust our patients place in us.

When I talk to patients today some who’ve been coming for a decade or more it reminds me that awards are great, but longevity, trust, and transformation matter more. Being a part of someone’s journey, helping them feel confident, safe, and seen… that’s what makes me proud to be part of Blue Water Spa today.

So yes, 2011 was a beautiful moment. But 2025 feels even better. Because this version of Blue Water Spa and this version of myself feels more aligned, more confident, and more capable than ever before.

Here’s to continued growth, evolving beauty, and always, always putting people first

Blue Water Spa Named Best Medical Spa in the Southeast

Posted on August 4, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

Best Medical Spa in the Southeast

Blue Water Spa Named Best Medical Spa in the Southeast by National Magazine.Les Nouvelle Estetique, LNE & SPA AWARD WINNER FOR MEDICAL SPA

Amaris Balkus, COO of Blue Water Spa traveled to Florida to accept the prestigious award of Best Medical Spa in the Southeast. Blue Water Spa is a true medical spa, owned and operated by board-certified and fellowship trained plastic surgeon Michael Law MD. Guests can be assured of their safety, comfort and outcomes at Blue Water Spa.

Medical esthetics is a consistently growing sector of the spa industry. A medical spa operates under the full-time, on-site supervision of a licensed health care professional. The collaboration between medical and esthetic professionals enables a scientific approach to esthetics, an exciting development in the industry with far reaching possibilities.

LNE & Spa’s choice for the Southeast Medical Spa Award is the Blue Water Spa of Raleigh, NC. Owned and operated by board- certified plastic surgeon Michael Law, M.D. and his wife Kile Law, the eight-year-old facility is a fully integrated plastic surgery medical spa that provides services in every area of esthetics, from laser hair removal and skin rejuvenation to facial treatments and pampering body therapies. Blue Water Spa’s menu of services is extensive, covering every area of the face and body. Men are definitely not an overlooked segment of Blue Water Spa’s clientele, as the substantial variety of avail- able male-specific treatments demonstrates. The Blue Water Spa is distinguished as the top provider of Botox® and Juvederm® in the Raleigh triangle area, and it is one of the leading Botox providers in the country.

The vast selection of esthetic plastic surgery procedures conducted at the Blue Water Spa includes everything from facelifts and liposuction to otoplasty (ear reduction) and facial fat grafting. Patients are in qualified hands, as Dr. Law himself performs all major surgeries. Surgical patients receive one complimentary overnight hospital stay with supervised care and monitoring to ensure their safety, as well as peace of mind for their loved ones.

The combined expertise of a board certified plastic surgeon, nursing staff and medical estheticians equip clients and patients at Blue Water Spa with the best resources available to address all of their esthetic goals. The broad, inclusive selection of services and outstanding quality of care that patients and clients experience at Blue Water Spa are distinctions of true excellence.

Breast Implant Explantation Q&A

Posted on February 8, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

Breast Implant Explantation Q&A

1. What is breast implant explantation?

Explantation is the medical term for breast implant removal. During an explantation surgery, breast implants are removed and not replaced. Because breast implants are subcutaneous foreign objects in a relatively superficial position, in most cases they can be removed as a minor procedure under local anesthesia, or with light oral sedation if patients prefer that.

Explantation is a simple and straightforward procedure with very little downtime. Patients are back at full-effort exercise in just one week. While I recommend taking it easy for at least 24 hours post-explantation, I have had patients tell me that they went out to dinner the night of their explant and one actually admitted at her one-month follow-up appointment that she went to a concert that evening and felt fine.

There are a number of reasons that may lead a patient to elect to have their implants removed. When the procedure is limited to breast implant removal only, deep IV sedation or general anesthesia is not required. In some cases, additional procedures may be indicated such as capsulectomy or mastopexy (breast lift). Capsulectomy with explantation and mastopexy procedures are usually performed under general anesthesia, but the majority of explantation patients do not require capsulectomy.

2. Why do women have breast implant explantation?

There are wide-ranging reasons that women who have undergone breast augmentation in the past seek treatment in our practice for breast implant removal. One very common scenario that we encounter is the patient who has really never felt comfortable with their augmented breasts. I frequently hear patients report that “my surgeon did not listen to me”, that high-volume implants were placed, and that these patients have never been comfortable with their overly large (and often abnormally-shaped) augmented breasts.

Frequently we see patients who actually needed a breast lift rather than a breast augmentation in the first place, and over time the breast implants have stretched out the breast skin even more and in doing so have made the pre-existing breast droopiness even worse. Many of these patients share that they have never felt comfortable with the result of their breast augmentation in form-fitting clothing or in a swimsuit, and are relieved to have the implants removed. These patients need a breast lift procedure as well, of course, and it is deeply rewarding to help patients make the transition from ‘problem breasts’ which interfere with their lifestyle to breasts that are lifted, youthful-appearing and natural-feeling.

Some patients we treat simply feel ‘done’ with their breast implants and want to return to being ‘all natural’ again. Some patients have dealt with a series of reoperations for complications of breast implant placement and wish to put the breast augmentation phase of their life behind them. These complications often include on or more of the following problems: implant shell failure, implant malposition, capsular contracture, animation deformities, implant size dissatisfaction, breast implant-related pain and discomfort, and visible implant folds and ripples.

We have seen several patients with breast implant illness (BII), and these patients elect to have their implants removed over the concern that their implants may be creating systemic symptoms. Most of our BII patients have reported complete resolution of symptoms following breast implant removal, although that outcome of course cannot be guaranteed, as in some patients the systemic symptoms they are experiencing may not be directly related to their breast implants.

3. How do I know if I have breast implant illness?

Breast implant illness (BII) is a clinical diagnosis based on symptoms. There is no laboratory test or imaging study that can prove or disprove the presence of BII. The patients I have seen and treated for breast implant illness notice the onset of systemic symptoms in the weeks, months, or years following breast implant placement. Symptoms of breast implant illness can include but are not limited to the following: fatigue, joint pain, muscle pain, insomnia, skin rash, headaches, hair loss, gastrointestinal problems, brain fog and anxiety/depression.

Many of the symptoms of BII are also associated with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Some patients who are diagnosed with BII may have an autoimmune disorder, so it is important for patients to look into that possibility as well with their primary care physician.

If you feel that you are experiencing significant systemic symptoms that may be related to your breast implants, you may want to consider having them removed. The majority of our breast implant illness patients have reported dramatic improvement in and often complete resolution of symptoms following breast implant removal.

4. What will my breasts look like after breast implant explantation?

Breast appearance following breast implant removal varies a great deal from patient to patient. Larger breast implants have a more profound effect on breast skin and breast tissue, as the deforming effect of the implant increases with implant volume. Breast implants not only stretch the breast skin but also cause breast tissue atrophy over time, and that effect can be profound in some patients, particularly in the upper pole of the breasts. Smaller-volume implants have a lesser impact on breast appearance following implant removal.

When I evaluate patients for breast implant removal, I make an effort to help the patient clearly understand how much of their current breast volume is created by the implants and how much of their breast appearance is represented by natural tissue. This gives them some idea of what their breast volume will be following implant removal.

If the breast skin is not lax or droopy, most patients elect to have implant removal only. Patients with significant skin laxity or breast ptosis (droopiness) often elect to have a mastopexy procedure performed as well.

For patients who so not have much natural breast tissue volume in the upper aspect of their breasts, and in patients who have experienced significant upper pole breast tissue atrophy because of their implants, we consider and can perform breast fat grafting to enhance the natural fullness of the upper poles. Fat is harvested by means of a liposuction procedure, commonly of the trunk and/or thighs, and the fat is processed and then grafted into the upper poles to enhance volume. This is an effective means of creating additional natural breast tissue volume, while also creating a body contour improvement at the ‘donor’ site, and can be repeated if patients desire additional breast volume enhancement over time.

5. Will I need a breast lift after explantation?

In some breast augmentation patients, the size and weight of the implants have stretched out the breast skin, resulting in the need for a breast lift (mastopexy) surgery. Breast skin laxity has been present in some patients since their breasts developed, and they have never enjoyed a ‘perky’ breast appearance. In other patients, the volume of the implant has stretched the breast skin out over time. Pregnancy/lactation is a contributing factor in some, and so is the natural aging process as breast skin naturally thins with each passing year.

Many patients have breast skin laxity and already know they want to have a breast lift performed along with implant removal. Other patients are not sure and prefer to have the implants removed and spend some time getting accustomed to their natural breasts and thinking about whether or not they want to have breast lift surgery performed. Patients with smaller volume implants and younger patients with good skin tone generally are happy with their breast appearance following explantation only, and often do not require a breast lift surgery.

6. Can explantation and breast lift be performed the same day?

For patients that need a breast lift, it is important to understand that it is challenging to accurately plan a mastopexy surgery with breast implants in the way. Determining the ideal new position for the nipple-areola complex is of paramount importance, and implants make that determination difficult to impossible in most cases.

That issue can be easily addressed by removing the implant volume a week or two before the breast lift surgery. For patients who have saline implants, this is accomplished by means of preoperative implant deflation, an office procedure that takes five or ten minutes. For patients with silicone gel implants, we plan removal of implants as a minor surgical procedure which can be performed under local anesthesia only.

It is extremely helpful for the patient and for me as the plastic surgeon to evaluate the natural breast appearance with the implant volume removed, by means of saline implant deflation or by silicone gel implant removal under local anesthesia. That allows both of us to have a clear understanding of the natural breast tissue that we have to work with, what to expect in terms of the results of the mastopexy surgery. It technically is possible to perform explant and mastopexy the same day, but in my experience it is very useful to perform saline deflation or gel implant removal prior to mastopexy to clearly set expectations, make decisions about whether or not fat grafting is desired, and to accurately plan the ideal position for the nipple-areola complex on the lifted breasts.

For patients who are not sure if they want to have a breast lift performed, we perform explantation only and let the patient decide over the next several weeks or months if they are satisfied with their breast appearance. For those that are dissatisfied and prefer to have a lifted and more youthful breast appearance, mastopexy can be scheduled at any time, and for those who desire a partial restoration of breast volume, fat grafting can be planned as well.

Facial Fillers – Am I Going to Look Overfilled?

Posted on February 8, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

Facial Fillers – Am I Going to Look Overfilled?

When did people start looking so overfilled? What has been the norm in the facial filling community isn’t really normal at all. In fact, too much filler makes people start to look odd and people weirdly start looking alike. The problem is not only too much filler but filler placed improperly. Filler can be addictive, and when it’s easily available some people just want more, more, more. When others around them seem to have a similar look, it normalizes an appearance that is unnatural. Ideally placed filler can provide balance and a youthful fullness. Too much filler is actually aging. The new trend amongst aesthetic professionals is slowly leaning towards a more natural look. At Blue Water Spa, natural looking results have always been our goal. So, if you’ve been holding off on getting filler for concern about a natural look, the team of expert injectors at Blue Water Spa can provide a beautiful, and natural looking result. Learn more about dermal fillers

Adding Fullness to Lips and Cheeks

For decades, people have been looking for ways to add fullness to the face, specifically to their lips and cheeks. The evolution of products for filling and rejuvenation of the face is here. It is important to remember that even the products currently used and that are thought of as safe, and not necessarily ideal for every part of the face. Areas of the face where there is significant mobility, like the lips, nasolabial folds and marionette linked need a soft material. Areas like the temples, and cheeks could possibly be safely injected with filler material that is more dense. It is important to remember that no matter the products that is used, the end result is all about the expertise of the medical professional performing the treatment. A physician, or nursing professional who has a deep understanding of the vascular system of the face, understand the nuance of soft tissue augmentation and understands anatomy including the location of nerves and muscles will be able to provide patients with a safe and beautiful result.

• Free Silicone was one of the very first products to be used for soft tissue augmentation of the face and lips. In some cases, the initial appearance could be pleasing, but the complications were so significant that the product was banned in the early 1990’s
• Bovine Collagen –, known in popular culture as “collagen injections” were extremely popular throughout the nineties. This type of collagen derived from cows, may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Therefore, allergy testing was required before patients could experience Collagen injections, the brand names, Zyderm and Zyplast. The fill did not last long and many people were allergic to these products, so the search continues for the ideal product
• Cadaveric Materials – Tissue or biomaterials derived from human cadavers, were an option used by some after bovine collagen had fallen out of favor. Cadaveric products used for soft tissue augmemtation included AlloDerm – A human-derived acellular dermal matrix (ADM) from donated cadaveric skin, often used in reconstructive and cosmetic procedures, including lip augmentation.Dermaplant – A similar product to AlloDerm, made from cadaveric dermal tissue. Cymetra – A micronized form of AlloDerm that could be injected, making it a viable option for lip enhancement, and fascia, and acellular cadaveric gastrocnemius fascia material.
• PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) – A synthetic biocompatible material used in dermal fillers. PMMA was known to create a lot of granulomas and therefore quickly fell out of favor.
• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) – A naturally occurring substance in the body that retains moisture and is widely used in dermal fillers. Hyaluronic acid fillers were absolutely revolutionary and changed soft tissue filling forever. Restylane was the first hyauluronic acid filler, followed by Juvederm and many others.
• Other products like porcine (pork) products, Calcium Hydroxyappetite and others have come and gone over the years.
• Other than hyaluronic acid products, the other mainstay has been structural fat grafting. Fat grafting is thought by some to be the absolute best product for filling. Others find it controversial. It is arguably the most challenging product to use, It is always administered with cannulas and generally, is a procedure administered by board-certified plastic surgeons.
• The newest injectable that looks like it is here to stay is injectable PRF, or platelet rich plasma. Many patients like the idea that it is their very own tissue, with results that can look and feels natural when administered by a medical professional with expertise.

What is microneedling?

Posted on February 7, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

What is microneedling?

Microneedling at Blue Water Spa is a non-invasive skin treatment designed to refresh and revitalize your skin. Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves the use of fine needles to create tiny punctures (controlled micro-injuries) in the skin. These micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural wound healing process, leading to increased collagen and elastin production, which helps improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.

Skin Care Specialists

Our highly trained skin care specialists use a high-speed pen with sterile tips to create micro-injuries trigger the natural healing response which firms’ skin and smooths texture. This is an excellent option for darker skin tones that cannot tolerate thermal skin firming methods. Microneedling improves scars, wrinkles, and pore texture for a result of smoother, more luminous skin.

Microneedling therapy, also known as percutaneous collagen induction therapy, is a relatively new treatment that encourages the growth of collagen tissue in the skin by physical or mechanical methods. This therapy uses a device with many fine needles to create micropunctures on the skin, promoting collagen regen-eration. This approach preserves the epidermis’ integrity and considerably improves the percutaneous absorption of post-treatment product applications, like PRF, Platelet Rich Fibrin, or even chemical peels. It is imperative to select the correct product as absorption of products post microneedling is significant. The right post-treatment product can help in providing good clinical results in the treatment.

At our Medical Spa in Raleigh

At Blue Water Spa, we see extraordinary results in skin texture, tone and youhtfulness when combining microneedling with PRF Most of us learned about PRP or PRF by seeing folks with faces covered in what looks like dried blood following professional microneedling. A trademarked name for this procedure was The Vampire Facial. PRF. When used after microneedling can help significantly with texture, tone and clarity of the skin. PRF can also be injected through a cannula in a way that can provide some filling of the area, and will actually [produce additional collagen to provide better structure to the deep layers of the skin. Unlike other injectible fillers, PRF is not only safe before facial surgery, but it can help strengthen the skin and help one prepare for facial rejuvenation surgery.

PRP and PRF

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet Rich Fibrin) are both platelet-rich therapies that use your own blood to promote healing. However, there are some key differences between the two treatments. PRF is the gold standard in blood product treatments as PRP technology has adapted since originally introduced to aesthetic practices. There are some basic similarities between PRP and PRF.

PRF Platelet Rich Fibrin is a type of platelet-rich therapy that is derived from your own blood. It involves the extraction of a small amount of blood, which is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelets and fibrin from the rest of the blood components. The resulting PRF is a gel-like substance that is rich in growth factors and other healing properties. PRF is often used in dental and oral surgery, as well as in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and skin rejuvenation. Unlike PRP, PRF does not require the addition of any additives or anticoagulants, making it a more natural and biocompatible option for certain treatments. It is the differences between these two products that makes PRF a distinctly superior product for skin rejuvenation, hair growth, wound healing and a plethora of other uses. PRF is even used in dentistry, orthopedics and other medical specialities due to the regenerative and healing powers of PRF.

PRF has a higher concentration of platelets and growth factors compared to PRP, which can lead to more effective healing and regeneration. PRF also forms a fibrin matrix, which acts as a scaffold for tissue regeneration, promoting better results. Overall, PRF Platelet Rich Fibrin treatment is a safe and effective option for those seeking medical treatments.

Because PRF is simply centrifuged blood with no additives. This allows more WBC’s, more growth factors,
and longer lasting fibrin matrix, with a slower release over 7 to 10 days. At a molecular level, PRF contains 20 different growth factors including:

Platelet derived growth factors (PDGF)
Stem cell factor (SCF)
Dermal papilla (IGF and fibroblast growth factor)
Vasculature VEGF and PDGF
Neural cells (Nerve Growth Factor)

These growth factors serve as an elixir to heal and promote collagen.

So, one question is, “Why doesn’t everyone use PRF instead of PRP?” The reason is that the fibrin from the PRF is thicker and it requires more training and expertise. It needs to be administered quickly by a practitioner who is very skilled with cannulas.

Questions to ask when choosing an Injector for Filler or Botox?

Posted on January 28, 2025 by Blue Water Spa

Questions to ask when choosing an Injector for Filler or Botox?

Here are questions any prospective patient should ask of an aesthetic injector:

1) Tell me about your training. Expert injectors will have formal and ongoing training including time in the OR with a board-certified plastic surgeon

Cadaver Training is also essential. Other than being in the OR observing surgery, it is the only way for medical professionals to truly see what is under the skin.

Understanding the details of the anatomy of the face including vascularity, nerves and muscles is the only way that injectors can truly perform safe and effective procedures.

2) Who is your Medical Director? What are their credentials? Is the Medical Director onsite?

In some states, a Medical Director may not need to be onsite. In fact, being in the same state, many hours away can effectively “check the box” Additionally, in some states, any physician,of any specialty can be a Medical Director whether or not she or he has received formal surgical training. A psychiatrist, a pediatrician, an ER doc or a family practice physician can all legally serve as medical Directors, even if they have no formal training on the vasculature of the face.

3) Which product lines do you offer?

Multiple products are available for providing enhancement to the face by enhancing with filler. Likewise, multiple neurotoxin options are available today. It is ideal to select a practice that can customize a treatment plan for you based on having a full spectrum of products available

4) Tell me about our protocols for adverse reactions or unsatisfactory results?

At Blue Water Spa, our highly trained NP injectors work as a collaborative team. We offer ALL products as some products work better for some indications than others. By having expertise, often less material can be used in the right place, to provide a better result with less product and therefore, less cost.

In the event of a patient with a unique situation, or an adverse reaction of any kind, there is a full team of NP’s available to work together. Dr. law, a board certified, fellowship trained plastic surgeon is available to oversee treatments and a full administrative staff is available to get information to the right people quickly.

The expert injectors are available to educate you on what is best. No pressure, no quotas, and no performing treatments until a very intensive training process has been completed.

In the event that a patient would experience a vascular occlusion, how would you manage that?

Vascular occlusion is a rare but potentially serious complication of hyaluronic acid filler injections. It results from accidental injection of the product into an artery, and it can also be due to compression of the artery from surrounding filler. “In certain circumstances, when filler is injected near or into the blood vessel, they become occluded due to the pressureTo put it plainly, the artery or capillary is constricted due to pressure of the filler or injected with filler. As a result, it is unable to function properly. The lack of blood flow causes the skin to suffocate and thereby can be damaging to both vision and skin

The best way to treat a vascular occlusion is to have very well trained professionals administering treatment. That will significantly limit the possibility of a vascular occlusion. Should a vascular occlusion take place., time is of the essence. This is often an “all hands on deck moment. You want to be certain that many hand are available, and that those hands are very capable

Aesthetic injections, when performed by well trained medical professionals in a safe and appropriate environment can be a quick way to make natural looking, yet transformative changes to the face. With skilled injectors, treatments are comfortable with little to no down time and the result is very natural looking

What does the SPF in sunblock really mean?

Posted on December 23, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

What does the SPF in sunblock really mean?

Let’s discuss sun protection factor, SPF. I mean this is a term that we hear all the time. Do we all
understand what it means? Sun protection factor is a mathematical comparison , it’s a ratio, of the
amount of time it takes for the skin to turn red wearing a sunscreen versus the amount of time it takes
without the sunscreen on. So let’s take a simple example. I have a bottle of SPF 10 sunscreen. I’m going
to go outside. I’m not going to put it on yet. I’m going to go outside at noontime in the summertime and
maybe it will take, let’s say, one minute for me because I have a rather low Fitzpatrick type skin to turn a
little red. Let’s say I go back inside, I wait a day and repeat this experiment, apply the sunscreen the next
day, do the same thing, bright sunshine, noontime. It will take ten minutes for me to turn red. That’s
what an SPF 10 means. It’s the multiple of the amount of time it will take me to get red when you
compare it without wearing a sunscreen.

When we talk about sunscreens, we should also understand the two different classes of sunscreen
ingredients. We have chemical ingredients and physical ingredients. Chemical sunscreens are
compounds that absorb ultraviolet energy. They are chemicals, things like PABA, which stands for para-
aminobenzoic acid. That’s an old-fashioned sunscreen. Avobenzone – that’s in a lot of modern
sunscreens. It’s a powder, more like a wax. You have to melt it. It doesn’t dissolve in water, and
avobenzone also known as Parsol 1789. When it was first introduced, it had a brand name Parsol 1789.
This is really a fairly good, not great, but fairly good UV-A absorber. And there are also chemicals that do
varying degrees of jobs in protecting us against UV-B – homosalate, octocrylene, octisalateoxybenzone,
octinoxate. Octinoxate is a very common one. These are all clear oils. You may have heard the issue with
octinoxate. Octinoxate can damage coral and harm marine life, and there are now places where it is
banned in sunscreens and there probably will be more bans because it is a problematic ingredient. All Blue Water Spa products are Reef Friendly, meaning the sun protection products we carry do not contain ingredients known to damage coral or other marine life

Studies show that ultraviolet rays account for about 80%

of skin aging, no matter whether the patient is a sun worshiper or a sun avoider. So it really teaches us
that it’s the sunshine we get simply living our lives, driving in our cars, walking around outside, sitting in
our homes next to an open window. All of these things actually contribute. They build up, they
accumulate in our skin and represent photoaging. And what that also teaches us is that we need to use a
sunscreen more than just at the beach, more on just those occasions when we are getting a lot of
sunshine doing outdoor activities. We need to use sunscreens every single day, rain or shine. That’s
really the message of this slide, and that is a great challenge that we all have as skin care professionals,
you in particular dealing directly with patients. When asked the question what is the very best thing I
can do to try to look younger, you may have younger patients asking that question, and the answer is
really simple. And that is the very, very first step is to use broad spectrum sunscreens every single day,
rain or shine.

Why Should I go to Blue Water Spa for Laser Hair Removal Services?

Posted on December 23, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

Why Should I go to Blue Water Spa for Laser Hair Removal Services?

That is a great question, and one I love answering! Here are a few reasons why guests love Blue Water

Spa and things that you should look for when choosing your laser provider!

Blue Water Spa, Dr. Law and our CEO both had significant experience working with laser manufacturers before BWS opened in 2002. This expertise and inside knowledge of lasers has helped with the selection of the most effective and safest lasers. The lasers are always new, updated, and serviced directly by the manufacturer. Each laser hair removal room is equipped with two lasers, one for light to medium skin and one for darker skin. We can treat the very darkest skin tones safely, and some people may have darker skin in some areas, like genitals and underarms, and lighter skin on other areas of the face or body.

* COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION – NOT A SALES PITCH:

Your consultation is a time for you to

learn about lasers. Not a sales pitch – no pressure. A complimentary consultation should be provided to

determine if you are a good candidate for laser before you commit to any treatment. Not everyone is a

candidate for laser treatments. If you aren’t – the provider should tell you.

* EXPERIENCE:

As Blue Water Spa’s Director of Training, I have been providing laser training to medical

professionals for more than two decades. The laser hair removal professionals at Blue Water Spa continue to learn and train others about the safest, most effective, fastest, and most comfortable laser treatments available. More than 1,500,000 laser services have been performed at Blue Water Spa since 2003.

* PHYSICIAN OWNED and OPERATED – NOT A FRANCHISE:

Board -Certified Plastic Surgeon Michael Law MD is onsite and directly oversees laser treatments.

* VARIETY OF LASER SERVICES FOR ALL SKIN TYPES:

Your aesthetic needs will be assessed and a customized treatment plan will be developed. We see patients of all ages: from teens, 20’s, 40’s, 60’s and beyond. Blue Water Spa has an aesthetic tool box that we use to address skin care needs from patients. Blue Water Spa offers laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, pigmentation removal, laser acne treatments, laser treatments for redness – any skin care need you have – Blue Water Spa has a safe and effective treatment option.

Pay As You Go Option

Patients come back because they have great results- not because they have a binding long term contract. Not everyone requires the same number of treatments.

From Empty Nest to New Beginnings: My Tummy Tuck Story

Posted on July 31, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

I recently underwent a tummy tuck procedure performed by Dr. Law at Blue Water Plastic Surgery, and I am thrilled to share my exceptional experience. From start to finish, the entire process was seamless and exceeded my expectations in every way.

First and foremost, the staff at Blue Water Plastic Surgery are truly outstanding. Yes, it’s a team I have worked with for many years, but this was my first time on this side of things. Being the patient that is. The entire team, from the receptionists to the nurses and Dr. Law, made me feel comfortable and well-cared for throughout the entire process.

Dr. Law and his team were absolutely phenomenal. Dr. Law took the time to listen to my concerns and goals, and he provided me with personalized recommendations that were tailored to my specific needs. His expertise and attention to detail instilled confidence in me from the very beginning, and I knew I was in good hands.

The decision to get a tummy tuck came at a significant phase of my life. With our daughter being grown and having recently become an empty-nester, I wanted to focus on myself and embrace the next chapter of our life with renewed confidence. While I have always felt comfortable in my own skin, I did face some challenges finding the most flattering clothing and desired a more contoured silhouette.

Throughout this journey, my husband Dave has been incredibly supportive. He has always been happy with me just as I am, but he understood my desire to make this change for myself and was there for me every step of the way.

The surgical facilities at Blue Water Plastic Surgery are top-notch. They are clean, modern, and accredited by AAAASF and The Joint Commission, which further added to my peace of mind. Throughout the procedure, the surgical team demonstrated professionalism and precision, ensuring that everything went smoothly and according to plan.

The post-operative care I received was equally impressive. The nursing staff provided attentive and compassionate care, addressing any questions or concerns I had and ensuring that I was comfortable and well-supported during my recovery.

I am delighted with the results of my tummy tuck procedure. Dr. Law achieved exactly the look I was hoping for, me but just a little better version of me, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. Not only do I feel more confident and comfortable in my own skin, but I also have a renewed sense of self-esteem and body positivity.

Additionally, I had a phenomenal recovery. Remarkably, I was back at work within just two days post-surgery, thanks to the expert care and support provided by Dr. Law and his team at Blue Water Plastic Surgery.

Overall, my experience at Blue Water Plastic Surgery was nothing short of exceptional. I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Law and his entire team for their professionalism, expertise, and dedication to patient care. I would highly recommend Blue Water Plastic Surgery to anyone considering a tummy tuck or any other cosmetic procedure. They truly are the best in the business.

Thank you, Dr. Law and Blue Water Plastic Surgery, for giving me the gift of a transformed body and renewed confidence.

The Ultimate Summer Skin Renewal: SaltFacial at Blue Water Spa

Posted on June 18, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

The Ultimate Summer Skin Renewal: SaltFacial at Blue Water Spa

Summertime brings sunshine, outdoor activities, and unfortunately, various skin challenges. Increased exposure to UV rays, sweat, and environmental pollutants can leave your skin feeling dull, congested, and damaged. This is where the SaltFacial at Blue Water Spa shines, offering an ideal solution for maintaining healthy, radiant skin during the warmer months.

At its core, the SaltFacial at Blue Water Spa offers a holistic solution to diverse skin concerns – from the bane of acne and scars to the unwanted appearance of sun damage, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. Remarkably, it even offers a reprieve from eczema symptoms.

Gentle Yet Effective Exfoliation

Summer heat can cause an increase in dead skin cells, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. SaltFacial utilizes natural sea salt to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and impurities. This process not only clears your pores but also helps prevent acne and blemishes, keeping your skin smooth and refreshed.

Deep Hydration

Spending time in the sun and air-conditioned environments can strip your skin of moisture, leaving it dry and dehydrated. The aesthetic ultrasound phase of the SaltFacial deeply hydrates your skin by enhancing the absorption of moisture and nutrients. This ensures that your skin remains plump, healthy, and glowing throughout the summer.

Healing Sun Damage

Prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. The SaltFacial’s LED phototherapy works wonders in repairing and rejuvenating sun-damaged skin. It stimulates collagen production, reduces redness, and fades dark spots, helping to restore your skin’s natural radiance.

Non-Invasive and No Downtime

Summertime is for enjoying outdoor activities and social events. SaltFacial is a non-invasive treatment with no downtime, making it perfect for a busy summer schedule. You can get the treatment and immediately return to your activities with a fresh, glowing complexion.

Safe for All Skin Types

The SaltFacial is suitable for all skin types and tones, making it a versatile treatment for anyone looking to improve their skin’s health during summer. Its all-natural approach ensures that even the most sensitive skin can benefit without irritation.

Detoxification

Summer can expose your skin to various pollutants and toxins. The natural sea salt in the SaltFacial has detoxifying properties that draw out impurities, leaving your skin clean and revitalized. This detoxification process helps prevent breakouts and maintains clear skin.

Embrace Summer with Confidence

With the SaltFacial at Blue Water Spa, you can embrace summer with confidence, knowing that your skin is well cared for. Whether you’re dealing with sun damage, dehydration, or simply want to maintain a healthy glow, the SaltFacial provides a comprehensive solution tailored to your skin’s needs.

A Transformative Experience

The SaltFacial at Blue Water Spa isn’t just a treatment; it’s a transformative journey for your skin. Whether you’re battling stubborn skin issues or simply seeking to maintain a youthful glow, our SaltFacial therapy provides a natural, effective solution. Experience the synergy of nature and technology and unlock the secret to radiant, healthy skin.

Book your appointment today and step into the world of ultimate skin renewal at Blue Water Spa!

Getting Summer-Ready with Emsculpt: My Favorite Treatment for Toning Up

Posted on April 19, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

With summer just around the corner, many of us are starting to think about getting our bodies beach-ready. Whether it’s hitting the gym more often, tweaking our diets, or exploring various cosmetic treatments, the goal is clear: to feel confident and comfortable in our own skin when the warmer months roll around. One treatment that has become a staple in my pre-summer routine is Emsculpt at Blue Water Spa, and let me tell you why it’s one of my favorites.

First things first, what exactly is Emsculpt? It’s a revolutionary non-invasive body contouring treatment that uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to induce powerful muscle contractions. These contractions are much more intense than what you can achieve through voluntary muscle action or exercise alone. Essentially, Emsculpt can give your muscles a workout equivalent to doing 20,000 muscle contractions in just one session.

So why do I love Emsculpt so much? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly efficient. With just a few sessions spaced a few days apart, you can start to see noticeable results. For someone like me with a busy schedule, being able to achieve significant muscle toning and definition without spending hours at the gym is a game-changer.

But efficiency isn’t the only reason I’m a fan of Emsculpt. Unlike some other body contouring treatments that primarily target fat reduction, Emsculpt focuses on building and toning muscle. This means that not only do you see improvements in your body shape, but you also experience increased strength and endurance. It’s like getting a two-for-one deal: looking great and feeling stronger.

Another aspect of Emsculpt that appeals to me is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to sculpt your abs, tone your buttocks, or strengthen your arms and legs, there’s an Emsculpt treatment tailored to your needs. Plus, it’s suitable for people of all fitness levels, from beginners looking to jump-start their fitness journey to athletes aiming to enhance their performance.

And let’s not forget about the convenience factor. Emsculpt sessions typically last around 30 minutes, and there’s no downtime afterward. You can literally squeeze a treatment into your lunch break and go about your day as usual. No need to worry about recovery time or avoiding certain activities – you can get back to your regular routine right away.

So why choose Emsculpt at Blue Water Spa specifically? Here are a few reasons:

Expertise: Blue Water Spa is renowned for its expertise in aesthetic procedures, including Emsculpt. Owned and operated by a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon with highly trained professionals, you can trust that you’re in capable hands.

Personalized Approach: At Blue Water Spa, each treatment plan is tailored to the individual. Whether you’re targeting specific muscle groups or looking for overall body sculpting, the team will customize your Emsculpt experience to suit your needs. Blue Water Spa also offers Emsculpt NEO for those seeking fat reduction in addition to muscle toning and building.

Comprehensive Care: From the moment you walk in the door to your post-treatment follow-up, Blue Water Spa provides comprehensive care every step of the way. You’ll feel supported and well-cared for throughout your Emsculpt journey.

Proven Results: Blue Water Spa has a track record of delivering exceptional results with Emsculpt. Review real before and after photos of our own patients who have experienced noticeable improvements in muscle tone, strength, and overall body contouring after their treatments.

Comfort and Convenience: With Blue Water Spa’s comfortable and inviting atmosphere, you’ll feel relaxed and at ease during your Emsculpt sessions. You can relax while having your muscles worked out for you.

Benefits: No Surgery, no downtime, builds muscle, sculpts body, intense workout without working out, improved posture, fat reduction, release of more endorphins.

Of course, like any aesthetic treatment, results may vary from person to person. While some people may see significant improvements after just a few sessions, others may require additional treatments to achieve their desired goals. It’s essential to have realistic expectations and consult with an experienced provider to determine the best treatment plan for you.

In conclusion, Emsculpt at Blue Water Spa has become a go-to treatment for me when it comes to getting ready for summer. Its efficiency, effectiveness, versatility, and convenience make it a standout option for anyone looking to tone up and feel more confident in their skin. So, if you’re considering ways to enhance your physique and boost your confidence this summer, why not give Emsculpt a try? Trust me; you won’t be disappointed.

Amaris Balkus, Chief Operating Officer

Explore our Emsculpt Collection: Emsculpt at Blue Water Spa

How Painful Is Laser Hair Removal?

Posted on February 16, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

Laser hair removal is a popular treatment for permanent hair removal. People often ask about pain associated with laser hair removal. At Blue water Spa, patients describe laser hair removal as mildly uncomfortable. But not painful.

Laser hair removal pain or discomfort may vary significantly from person to person. The treatment area of laser hair removal definitely influences how comfortable or uncomfortable the treatment will be. Laser hair removal directly on bone, like the ankles for example are often the most sensitive. Surprisingly to many laser hair removal clients, the Brazilian bikini laser, including gential areas, perianal area vulva and testicles are not particularly painful. But, the mons pubis in a woman, or in a man the supra-pubic area is sometimes the most sensitive area of a bikini area laser hair removal treatment

Do Cooling gels help with pain from laser hair removal?

Cooling gels are a somewhat antiquated method of providing cooling and comfort to areas of the face or body prior to laser hair removal. Gels are not just messy and uncomfortable, but they will start warming upon application. Fr that reason, the cooling they provide to the skin is inconsistent and not long-lasting. A modem laser, equipped with a dynamic cooling device is a much more effective means of cooling the skin. A Dynamic Cooling Device, or DCD, sprays the skin a millisecond before the laser energy is administered. This cooling system means a more comfortable treatment, and a safer treatment as well.

Another device for cooling the skin is an air cooler, often called a Zimmer cooler has it’s place in aesthetic medicine, but it is not the safest or most effective way to cool the skin and to prevent pain prior to laser hair removal.

What can reduce pain during laser hair removal?

The DCD or dynamic cooling device is the most important tool for cooling the skin and reducing pain. The first treatment will be the last comfortable simply because there is more hair the first session. With each subsequent treatment. There will be less hair, and therefore, a more comfortable treatments. A few tips that experienced laser hair removal providers share is to avoid overloading on caffeine before a laser hair removal treatment. Also, being hydrated and having adequate nutrition, especially potassium can help. So, some folks eat a banana prior to laser hair removal. Menstruation is not a contraindication for laser hair removal services, but some women are more sensitive during their menstrual cycle and therefore, some women elect to avoid laser hair removal while menstruating.

Do topical numbing creams, like lidocaine help reduce pain associated with laser hair removal?

There is a possibility that numbing creams could work. But when large areas areas of the body are treated, there can be a potential for lidocaine toxicity. So, although lidocaine creams can help with some treatments, like microneedling, lidocaine should be used sparingly and judiciously. At Blue Water Spa, our guests report being able to experience laser hair removal with minimal discomfort And, any discomfort is not lasting. It goes away immediately.

Is laser hair removal more painful than waxing?

Clients who have experienced waxing for hair removal, and then visit Blue Water Spa for laser hair removal unanimously report that laser hair removal is far more comfortable. It is also cleaner, faster, and safer. The best thing, of course when comparing laser hair removal to waxing is that laser hair removal with permanently disable, or weaken the root of the hair, meaning that the hair won’t grow back. There are so many concerns with waxing, including burning the skin, risk of creating pigmentation issues, possible infection and also the need to grow hair out. Without question, laser hair removal, when the right laser is used is a far superior option to waxing for hair removal

What about Electrolysis for Hair Removal vs Laser Hair Removal?

Hair removal via electrolysis is an effective and proven way to permanently remove hair. When performed with expertise, electrolysis can be effective, and electrolysis can be permanent.

During electrolysis, a thin probe is inserted into each hair follicle to deliver an electric current, to disable or destroy the root of the hair. Electrolysis works by treating a single hair follicle at a time, making the process extremely time consuming and for some, more painful than laser hair removal. The issue of pain is in large part due to the fact that electrolysis takes so much longer to perform than laser hair removal. The pain of electrolysis is not lasting and typically tolerable when only small areas are treated. But the idea of treating a full face, underarms, bikini, legs, back or anything other than a few individual hairs would mean a lengthy and unpleasant experience for most.

Electrolysis certainly has a place in hair removal. For instance, folks who may have a few stubborn white or gray hairs on their chin or unwanted hair that is white or gray on their upper lip can be treated with electrolysis. Laser hair removal requires some pigmentation in the root of the hair, so that the pigmentation can absorb the laser energy. In white or gray hair, there is no pigmentation, so electrolysis can be an excellent adjunct

Ranking Hair Removal Methods in order of Pain

Shaving
Shaving should be a completely painless procedure. However, if one suffers from ingrown hairs, shaving could potentially be uncomfortable. The obvious downside of shaving is that it does address the root of the hair and one must shave daily, or several times a day to remain hair free

Depilatory Creams
If one has no skin irritation ideally, depilatory creams should not cause pain. But the intense odor can create discomfort by virtue of the smell, and can even give some people headaches

Tweezing
Tweezing should have very limited discomfort as it is limited to a very few hairs at a time

Laser Hair Removal
In addition to being very tolerable from a discomfort perspective, laser hair removal with the right laser, administered by a laser hair removal technician who is well trained, laser hair removal will typically result in a hair free, area, or with most hair removed.

Electrolysis
Electrolysis is somewhat uncomfortable when administered for just a few stray hairs. But when administered to a larger area, the tedious procedure can be very uncomfortable

Waxing
Waxing is often extremely painful.Just google memes for waxing! And, the discomfort can last and can make the skin very sensitive. There are also significant possible side effects including burns or infection that can be both painful and dangerous

Epilators
Epilators are electric devices that pulled hair out by the root. These devices have, for obvious reasons fallen out of favor, with some people describing the pain of epilators as torturous.

The obvious “winner” when considering hair removal options is laser hair removal. But it is critical to find a laser center with multiple lasers so the appropriate laser is used for your skin tone and hair color

Can laser hair removal work for blonde hair?

Posted on February 13, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

Laser hair removal has often been considered ineffective for individuals with blonde, red, or grey hair. The reality is that with the right laser, many men and women with blonde hair laser removal can get removal of unwanted hair and will have a very successful experience.

The success of laser treatments depends on the laser that is used. At Blue Water Spa, powerful lasers that direct energy to the root of the hair can actually be very effective on blonde hair or light hair. Whether or not a laser will be effective depends on both the color and density of the hair. Every laser has a specific target termed as a ‘chromophore.’ The chromophore for laser hair removal is pigment. Despite appearing blonde at the surface, some hair roots carry enough pigment to serve as a viable target for the laser. It is important to remember that no single laser will be effective for both light skin and dark skin. This is why every laser treatment room at Blue Water Spa is equipped with two different lasers, both of which have variable settings. The lasers used for dark skin have a long pulse that will target the root of the hair, while passing the surface pigment of the skin. The lasers that work on lighter hair or blonde hair and lighter skin have a shorter and more powerful pulse, as there is less pigment in the root of the hair, so the shorter pulse with more energy is required for hair removal in individuals with lighter skin. One way to detect the presence of pigment in hair is by plucking a few hairs from the targeted area and placing them on white paper — any detected pigment signifies the potential success of laser hair removal for blonde hair. The laser providers at Blue Water Spa can help with this process during a complimentary consultation.

At Blue Water Spa, numerous clients and staff members with natural blonde hair reported successful and permanent removal of hair using lasers designed specifically for lighter hair. These powerful lasers, characterized by high peak energy and brief pulse width, are optimal for removing lightly pigmented hair and achieving blonde hair laser removal before and after results clients love.

Even with body treatments, like laser hair removal for light hair on legs, feet, forearms or back, individuals might still notice some fine, soft blonde hair in the vicinity. Some people are perfectly happy with this result. For others, completely hair-free and smooth skin, individuals may need to shave the superfine, vellus hair once a month or so. Areas like the bikini area, whether traditional bikini, Brazilian Bikini, or Brazilian Bikini for men, sometimes referred to as a “mankini” almost always have a dark root, so treatment of those areas, even in people with blonde hair is often very successful. One hair turns grey, there is no pigment in the root of the hair, and therefore treatments will not be effective.

Selecting the Right Laser for Blonde Hair

For the removal of lighter hair, the selection of a specific laser type is of paramount importance. Light sources, like IPL, Intense Pulsed Light, and BBL, Broad Band Light,are not lasers at all. They are light sources that use scattered light for a variety of skin enhancement and hair removal. But these devices, marketed for everything, can do a lot of things, but they don’t do anything consistently very well. Because these devices are light sources and not lasers, they hit different targets sporadically and ineffectively. IPL and BBL lack a specific target or chromophore, which means they are not effective for blonde hair, or really any hair. These devices can also be potentially damaging to dark skin.
Basic laser physics and the laser pulse concept explains why a longer pulse laser is safer and more effective for people with dark skin, and why a shorter pulsed, high energy laser is best when a person has lighter hair. Understanding that IPL and BBL are not lasers at all can further help consumers to understand why these modalities can be ineffective and unsafe.
There is a significant difference in how lasers with shorter and longer pulses emit their energy. The former are designed to direct their energy swiftly and safely towards the hair root with less pigment, effectively damaging or destroying the hair follicle while leaving the surrounding skin intact. This is why finding a laser center with multiple lasers is essential for both safety and efficacy.

Recently, there has been a lot of promotion of “home lasers”. These devices are not lasers at all. The appeal is that people who feel embarrassed about unwanted hair can treat themselves in their own home. These devices are ineffective. Professional laser technicians in a medical environment are accustomed to seeing hair on all areas of the face and body in all genders. There is no need to be embarrassed about unwanted hair when seeking treatment for laser treatment at Blue Water Spa. With hundreds of laser hair removal for blonde hair services performed each week, the laser hair removal technicians are highly trained. They are also kind, discreet and will make each guest feel comfortable and confident. All consultations start with a client fully clothed, using diagrams so that the guest and the laser hair removal technician can discuss the exact desire and identify the area where laser hair removal will be performed.
The need for shaving prior to laser hair removal is because any pigment can absorb laser energy. So, the root of the hair, vs the hair itself needs to be the target for both safety and efficacy. However, if a man or woman seeking laser hair removal for blonde hair would like a consultation with their hair intact, we at Blue Water Spa, are certainly happy to help guide a patient through that process.

To determine if blonde hair will respond to laser hair removal, tweeze a few hairs, and examine them on white paper for any visible pigments. Unpigmented hair such as white or grey hair will not respond to laser hair removal. For desired blonde hair laser removal results, considering the process sooner rather than later before the unwanted hair turns grey or white is advised.

For laser hair removal services, contact a board-certified plastic surgeon serving areas of Wake Forest, Durham, Brier Creek, Chapel Hill, and North Raleigh. for the best laser hair removal for blonde hair.

BWS Celebrates Two Prestigious Awards

Posted on January 12, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

I’m bursting with excitement to share some fantastic news with you all: Blue Water Medical Spa has just been honored with the title of “Best Medical Spa” by not one but two prestigious publications—Midtown Magazine and 5 West, formerly Cary Living. Can we get a virtual round of applause?

These accolades are no small feat, and it truly warms our hearts to see our hard work recognized by such esteemed publications. Midtown Magazine, a lifestyle publication that’s all about the hottest places to live, work, and play in Raleigh, and 5 West, a go-to for everything fabulous in Western Wake County, hosted voting competitions over the last few months, and we emerged victorious in both arenas.

This isn’t the first time our team has been in the spotlight. In 2023 alone, we received accolades from Indy Week, Wake Living, WRAL Voters’ Choice Award, and Midtown Magazine for our outstanding service at our Brier Creek location in the RTP area and our Raleigh location . We’re beyond grateful for the support and recognition.

As a female co-founded company, we take immense pride in providing a wide range of services that celebrate and enhance your natural beauty. From facial rejuvenation treatments to Botox injections and laser hair removal, our offerings are as diverse as the beautiful individuals who walk through our doors.

What sets us apart is our commitment to excellence, and that commitment is not just a buzzword—it’s our guiding principle. All our transformational aesthetic procedures operate under the immediate supervision of our amazing board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Michael Law.

At Blue Water Medical Spa, we’re not just a spa; we’re a fully integrated aesthetic surgery office and medical spa. What does that mean for you? It means all your aesthetic needs can be met in one location. Our incredible team, consisting of the surgeon, nursing staff, and medical aestheticians, collaborates to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each and every one of you.

If you haven’t experienced the Blue Water allure yet, what are you waiting for? Check out our website and text us if you have any questions 919-769-6044.

Amaris Balkus, Chief Operating Officer

Unlocking Radiant Skin: The Science Behind Microneedling for a Glowing Complexion

Posted on January 3, 2024 by Blue Water Spa

In the dynamic world of non-surgical aesthetic treatments, there’s one ritual that has truly captured my heart – microneedling. Let me share my excitement about why this procedure, particularly at Blue Water Spa, has become an indispensable part of my beauty routine.

Microneedling stands out as a game-changer, addressing a myriad of skin concerns with its subtle yet profound impact. Its versatility has made it my go-to treatment, tackling everything from fine lines and wrinkles to acne scars and uneven texture. The beauty of microneedling lies in its adaptability, offering a comprehensive solution tailored to my specific skin needs.

One of its exceptional features is the ability to stimulate natural collagen production, resulting in a rejuvenated and refreshed complexion. Executed meticulously with the highest BWS (Beauty with Safety) protocols, the process involves controlled micro-injuries that prompt the body’s natural healing response. The outcome? Skin that is noticeably firmer, smoother, and radiates with revitalized beauty.

At Blue Water Spa, we take pride in the minimal downtime associated with our microneedling sessions. For someone with a busy schedule like mine, the ability to undergo a session and swiftly resume daily activities without significant interruption is a major plus. This beauty boost seamlessly integrates into my hectic routine.

What sets our microneedling experience apart is its remarkable customizability. Whether targeting specific areas or opting for a full-face refresh, microneedling allows for flexibility to tailor the session according to personal preferences and skincare goals. Our skilled providers, armed with extensive expertise, collaborate closely with each individual to ensure the most effective and targeted treatment possible.

For an added enhancement, Blue Water Spa offers specially formulated chemical peels, crafted by a cosmetic chemist exclusively for select plastic surgeons and dermatologists. While these peels may not result in visible peeling, they provide a super-charged medical-grade treatment, elevating microneedling to the next level.

The consistent and remarkable positive impact on my skin’s texture, tone, and overall vibrancy has been truly noteworthy. Over time, I’ve observed a significant improvement in the appearance of fine lines, leaving my skin feeling resilient and youthful.

As I eagerly anticipate another year of self-care and beauty rituals, microneedling will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone in my skincare routine. Its transformative effects and minimal commitment align perfectly with my desire for effective yet practical treatments.

Here’s to celebrating the beauty of microneedling and the confidence it brings. If you’re curious about exploring this treatment, I highly recommend considering a personalized consultation with one of our highly trained and skilled skincare providers. Their expertise ensures a safe and tailored experience that aligns with your unique skincare goals.

Explore our Microneedling Collection: Microneedling at Blue Water Spa

Amaris Balkus, Chief Operating Officer

Discover the Blue Water Spa Laser Hair Removal Membership Program: Silky Smooth Skin Made Affordable and Convenient

Posted on June 1, 2023 by Blue Water Spa

Are you tired of the never-ending cycle of shaving, waxing, and tweezing? It’s time to break free from the hassle and achieve long-term results. Introducing the Blue Water Spa Laser Hair Removal Membership program, designed for individuals seeking an affordable and convenient solution for unwanted hair. With this membership, you can say goodbye to the inconvenience of traditional hair removal methods and hello to silky, smooth skin that lasts all year round.

Our Laser Hair Removal Membership program offers a pay-as-you-go option through a convenient monthly payment plan. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive members-only pricing on laser hair removal treatments, making it even more accessible and budget-friendly. Plus, with an active membership, you’ll gain access to exclusive members-only pricing on our most popular services and products, providing you with even more value.

At Blue Water Spa, we have been at the forefront of laser hair removal since 1995. Our expertise and dedication to excellence set us apart. We utilize state-of-the-art lasers that are effective and safe for all skin types. With our team of highly trained laser professionals, you can trust that you’re in capable hands. We perform thousands of laser treatments each year, and our experienced medical providers prioritize your safety, comfort, and privacy.

So how does the Blue Water Spa Laser Hair Removal Membership Program work? It’s simple. You’ll receive laser hair removal treatments at designated intervals based on the treatment areas you select. Our memberships are fully customizable, allowing you to add new areas at members-only rates. If you ever need to pause your treatments, you can easily freeze your membership without any hassle.

When it comes to pricing, our 12-month membership program offers the convenience of affordable monthly payments for your laser hair removal treatments. You can also add additional areas for a members-only fee, tailoring your treatment plan to your specific needs. If additional treatments are recommended, you’ll enjoy special membership pricing for those as well.

As a member, you’ll also gain access to exclusive Membership Benefits, including special pricing on additional services and Blue Water Spa retail products. Our members receive exclusive VIP pricing on other spa services, creating a holistic and comprehensive approach to your beauty and wellness needs.

Don’t settle for temporary solutions when it comes to hair removal. Join the Blue Water Spa Laser Hair Removal Membership Program and experience the freedom of smooth, hair-free skin without the hassle.

For full details on pricing and to get started on your journey to silky, smooth skin, click here. Let Blue Water Spa be your trusted partner in achieving your hair removal goals, providing you with exceptional care and remarkable results.

Fresh Faced for Father’s Day: Top Local Raleigh Gift Ideas for Dad

Posted on June 14, 2022 by Blue Water Spa

Fresh Faced for Father’s Day: Top Local Raleigh Gift Ideas for Dad Father’s day gifts seem to be the same recycled ideas year after year. The hardest working guys we know deserve better than grill and golf accessories. Deep down we know men love spa days too. Gift them some of our favorite treatments whether its custom skin care or Emsculpt sessions. Check our list of top products and treatments for your favorite dads! After all, it doesn’t hurt to introduce them to YOUR favorite spa, too! 😉

Hydrafacial

Whether your favorite guy has been spending his day on the greens or the kidss soccer tournaments, the Hydrafacial in Raleigh can rejuvenate after even the most disappointing putting average. The HydraFacial at Blue Water Spa uses patented Vortex-Fusion to cleanse, hydrate, and protect the skin. The HydraFacial begins with a gentle exfoliation and peel. Then, a painless extraction process clears pores of dirt and debris before delivering intense moisturization to the skin. The HydraFacial’s signature blend of antioxidants and peptides results in ultimate hydration, giving the skin a beautiful glow.

The signature spiral shape of the Vortex-Fusion system performs painless extraction of the pores while simultaneously delivering moisturizing solutions to the skin. The three-step process of cleansing, hydration, and protection makes the HydraFacial an ideal treatment to address fine lines and wrinkles, even skin tone and texture, improve skin firmness and elasticity, and reduce the appearance of brown spots and enlarged pores.

Shop: Signature Hydrafacial Treatment at Blue Water Spa
Pair with: Retinol 50 Serum for Men

Gentleman’s Hydrabliss Infusion Facial

If a moment of relaxation is high on dad’s list, the Gentleman’s Hydrabliss Infusion Facial is the perfect gift. A luxurious union of the popular HydraFacial treatment with our indulgent Bliss massage of the neck, shoulders, hands, and arms for ultimate pampering. The HydraBliss Facial in Raleigh includes all aspects of the Hydrafacial Signature and adds pampering, LED light therapy, and a customized Booster infusion based on the specific needs of his skin.

Our Gentleman’s Hydrabliss Facial is one of the most popular treatments among men, and for good reason. Men’s skin takes a lot of harsh conditions. From everyday sun, to frequent shaving. There’s no question it could use some extra love. The Gentleman’s Hydrabliss Facial at Blue Water Spa addresses their top concerns, like ingrown hairs or razor burn that may be consistently happening in the same area. The facial includes a steam treatment, exfoliation, and extractioin of clogged pores.

Shop: Gentleman’s Hydrabliss Facial
Pair with: Intensive Recovery Moisturizer

Skin Care Routine

It’s time for an upgrade from dad’s usual routine of, ‘whatever’s on the counter.’ Before the teenage years start showinig their evidence, a great skincare routine will help hydrate to reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. Besides, every dad can use a reason to take some extra personal time in the bathroom, without using up your favorite products! Set his routine up for success with the perfect everyday essentials hand picked just for our favorite guys.

Shop: Men’s Everyday Skincare Set
Pair with: Microneedling with PRF

Emsculpt sessions + Blue water spa gift card

Before you select another piece of athletic equipment as the perfect father’s day gift, we have the treatment to help dad feel great about what he’s already doing.

EmSculpt is a groundbreaking approach to sculpting the abdominal muscles. Emsculpt is the first non-invasive body shaping procedure that simultaneously addresses both muscle tone and subcutaneous fat contour. Emsculpt is FDA-approved for the strengthening, toning, and firming of the abdominal muscle groups. It helps both women and men build muscle and sculpt their body without needles or anesthesia.

EmSculpt sessions are great additions to a regular workout and diet regimen to help tone those target areas that just don’t seem to budge any more. Men especially love Emsculpt treatments at Blue Water Spa because they can be quickly done on a lunch break or commute home, to complement their gym efforts.

Shop: Emsculpt Neo Session
Pair with: Men’s Mistral Luxury Body Wash

ABOUT BLUE WATER SPA

Blue Water Spa is a Raleigh spa that has been voted Best Medical Spa in America three consecutive years, and is owned and operated by Raleigh Plastic Surgeon Michael Law MD. From CoolSculpting, Emsculpt, Laser hair removal, laser skin tightening to microdermabrasion, pampering spa packages, and medical-grade clean & cruelty-free skincare, at Blue Water Spa you will receive the ultimate in results and relaxation.

Text Blue Water Spa to schedule your consultation: 919-769-6044.

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Hydrafacial

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Emsculpt sessions + Blue water spa gift card

ABOUT BLUE WATER SPA

Schedule a Consultation with Blue Water Spa Today