Which laser is right for you?
Alexandrite Laser
(755 nm)
Class 4 Device
If you have Fair to Medium Skin Type (Fitzpatrick 1-4) with dark hair, your perfect match is the Alexandrite laser! Speaking in terms of science, the Alexandrite is actually the only laser to effectively 'target' unwanted hair. It specifically focuses on the pigmented hair, sending heat down to the root (matrix) to destroy it. This is why the Alexandrite or "Alex" laser is not safe for darker skin types (Fitzpatrick 5 & 6). Since the laser targets anything with pigment (melanin in this case), it puts darker complexions at high risk for burning or causing undesirable results that can last 6 months or longer.
Nd:YAG Laser
(1064 nm)
Class 4 Device
Darker Skin Types (Fitzpatrick 5 & 6) this one's safest for you! The Nd:YAG laser primarily targets hemoglobin (blood) and water, but is still effective for hair removal because it can also penetrate deep enough to reach the melanin in the hair follicle. Although it has a lower affinity for melanin compared to other lasers like the Alexandrite, its deep penetration allows it to bypass melanin in the epidermis and selectively heat the follicle, damaging it without harming the surrounding skin. This makes it particularly suitable for darker skin tones where melanin concentration in the skin is higher.
IPL Intense-Pulsed Light
Non-Specific Wavelength
Class 3 Device
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is not effective or recommended by the Society of Clinical & Medical Hair Removal (SCMHR) for Laser Hair Removal due to the following reasons:
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Non-Specific Wavelengths: IPL uses a broad spectrum of light, which scatters and penetrates less effectively compared to the concentrated single wavelength of a laser. This reduces its ability to target the melanin in hair follicles.
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Lower Energy Output: IPL operates at lower energy levels, making it less effective at destroying hair follicles permanently.
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Higher Risk of Skin Damage: Due to its scattered light, IPL may heat the surrounding skin unnecessarily, increasing the risk of burns or hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin tones.
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More Sessions Required: IPL often requires more treatment sessions to achieve results comparable to laser devices.
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Not Ideal for All Skin and Hair Types: IPL is less effective on coarse hair or on individuals with darker skin tones due to its lower specificity.
For the best and most permanent results, medical-grade laser systems like Alexandrite or Nd:YAG are preferred.