Diode laser hair removal has been a revolution in cosmetic dermatology. This technology appears on the market to face the Alexandrite laser and, in principle, it seems to achieve and surpass it.
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However, the diode laser has some peculiarities that you should be aware of to know if it is what your center needs. Here’s how to find out if this technology is right for your skin and hair.
Diode laser is a technology used for hair removal that uses monochromatic light to destroy the hair follicle. What makes this technology more advanced is its precision, as it can be directed to an exact location and regulate the power.
Currently, the diode laser is the most popular laser hair removal system because it works on both light and dark skin.
Its operation is technically very simple. The laser handpiece emits light that is absorbed by the melanin present in the hair follicles and the heat generated destroys them, permanently preventing their growth.
Diode laser equipment incorporates different options to adjust the intensity of the light beam to the area to be treated. Thus, for example, more sensitive areas such as the face or bikini area require less power. Also, the bikini and underarm areas tend to have coarser hair, so more sessions may be necessary. In any case, these are considerations that the specialist should detail before starting treatment.
Compared to other technologies, the diode laser offers the advantage of being a permanent treatment, as long as all the planned sessions are carried out, which may differ according to the type of hair and skin.
Other benefits include:
Whichever type of hair removal we choose, we are using a powerful technology that can be aggressive to our skin. Therefore, it is essential to know these machines before using them. Understanding what each piece of equipment can do and what we will achieve by modifying its settings not only enhances the safety of the machine, but will also make a difference in the success of the treatment.
If we focus only on diode laser technology, although it is very safe, we can list a few things to keep in mind:
It is always advisable to avoid sun exposure for a few days before a hair removal procedure to avoid exposing tanned skin to the chosen technology, as it is more susceptible to burns.
In addition, cutting the hair at the root with methods such as waxing or tweezing should be avoided because it interferes with the laser’s ability to remove follicles.
During the hair removal session, it is normal to feel some tingling and slight itching in the treated area. These are normal sensations that will be improved by moisturizing the skin with skin-softening creams.
In the days following hair removal, it is necessary to avoid abrasive and exfoliating products, as well as direct exposure to the sun.
Although the basic technology is the same, there are different types of diode laser machines on the market, which differ in individual specifications, such as power, treatment speed or targeting a specific skin type.
When it comes to finding the best system for laser hair removal in NYC, you have many laser systems to choose from. In part I of SKINNEY Medspa’s series on the different types of hair removal lasers you learned about the five most popular laser hair removal machines. In this, Part II of the hair removal lasers series, you will learn about the differences between each laser system to discern which laser system will work best for you.
<< Read Part I here.
Popular Ruby Laser System: RubyStar, Palomar E, EpiPulse Ruby
PROS of the Ruby Laser System: Because the Ruby laser has been around for so long, there is ample clinical research to support its effectiveness at permanent hair reduction. In addition, its slow repetition rate makes the Ruby laser one of the most tolerable of all the systems for laser hair removal.
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CONS of the Ruby Laser System: Because the Ruby laser has been around for so long, many people consider it antiquated technology and opt for more current laser systems. The Ruby laser system has many constraints. It cannot treat darker skin tones. Slow repetition makes for longer treatment duration, so smaller treatment areas are ideal. Furthermore, the Ruby laser is not effective on light or grey hair.
The Ruby Laser System is Ideal for: Individuals with light skin tones who want to treat small areas of fine hair.
Popular Alexandrite Laser Systems: Candela, GentleLase, EpiTouch Plus, Cynosure Apogee
PROS of the Alexandrite Laser System: The Alexandrite is the fastest system for laser hair removal, making it ideal for treating larger areas. Its wavelength is longer than other systems, making it effective on a wider range of skin types, from light skin tones to olive skin tones. It works better on thinner hair than other hair removal lasers and can even treat individuals with light skin and freckles.
CONS of the Alexandrite Laser System: The Alexandrite laser system is more painful than other systems and can cause discoloration if used on patients with darker skin tones.
Alexandrite Laser System is Ideal for: The Alexandrite laser system works best on lighter skin tones and is ideal for larger treatment areas, such as the legs or the back.
Popular Diode Laser Systems: SLP, F1 Diode, LightSheer, MeDioStar, SopranoXL, LaserLite, Epistar, Apex
PROS of Diode Laser Systems: Innovative laser technology decreases risk of epidermal damage by using a longer wavelength. Diode wavelengths may be customized to the needs of the patient. Rapid repetitions decrease treatment duration. Less trauma to the surrounding skin means shorter recovery times. More effective on coarse hair than other laser systems.
CONS of Diode Laser Systems: Diode laser treatments are typically more painful than other laser systems with slower repetitions. Newly introduced to the market, diode laser systems have less scientific research to back up its long-term effectiveness.
The Diode Laser System is Ideal for: Patients with light to tan skin. Ideal for treating larger areas quickly. Ideal choice for men wanting to remove hair from their back or chest.
Popular Nd:YAG laser systems: Cynosure, Candela, GentleYAG, Medlite IV, Lyra, Sciton, Cutera
PROS of Nd:YAG laser systems: Does not target melanin, making it safe for all skin types, even dark skin tones. Its long wavelength means fewer pulses of energy are needed, making Nd:YAG laser treatments shorter and more comfortable than other laser systems with faster repetitions. The Nd:YAG is more effective than IPL treatments for removing unwanted body hair. Good for treating larger areas.
CONS of Nd:YAG laser systems: Nd:YAG is not as effective at removing fine hair as other laser systems and may require more treatments overall. In addition, while it is not the most uncomfortable laser system, it is not the most comfortable either.
The Nd:YAG laser systems is Ideal for: The Nd:YAG system is the hair removal laser of choice for individuals with dark skin tones. It’s large wavelength and ability to treat larger areas makes it ideal for removing leg hair and hair from the back.
Popular IPL systems for hair removal: Aculight, Quantum, Vasculight, Epilight, PhotoDerm
PROS of IPL Laser Hair Removal: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) systems can be customized to the patient’s skin tone, treatment area, and hair type, making IPL laser hair removal optional for a broader range of skin types. IPL can target large areas, quickly
CONS of IPL Laser Hair Removal: While IPL systems are more customizable and approved for a wider range of skin types than other laser systems, they are not as effective as their Nd:YAG counterparts. In addition, IPL hair removal treatments are not recomended on skin with sun exposure because the IPL may exacerbate hyperpigmentation.
IPL Laser Hair Removal is Ideal for: IPL systems are ideal for individuals who are not good candidates for traditional laser hair removal. IPL works best on dark hair with light skin but treatments can be applied to a range of skin and hair types. Ideal for treating larger areas.
The best way to find out which laser system will provide you with the best laser hair removal is to schedule a complimentary consultation with the hair removal specialists at SKINNEY Medspa. As NYC’s premier skin and laser spa, SKINNEY is the preferred provider of Laser Hair Removal in Manhattan and can help you discover which system will deliver the best results for your investment.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Beauty Laser Machine. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.